Garment printing, explained simply.
Printing puts your artwork onto the fabric as ink. It suits bold graphics, large designs and full-colour artwork — and it's usually the quickest route for event and promotional garments.
What it's best for
- T-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts and tote bags.
- Large front or back designs that embroidery can't cover.
- Full-colour artwork, photographs and gradients.
- Bigger runs, where screen printing brings the unit price down.
- Small quantities and one-offs using DTF or transfers.
What we need from you
- Vector artwork where possible: AI, EPS, PDF or SVG.
- A high-resolution PNG or JPEG (300dpi at print size) is often fine.
- Your colour references if you need a specific brand colour matched.
- Where the print should sit and roughly how wide it should be.
- Garment, colours and a size breakdown — or just the total quantity to start.
Printing vs embroidery
| Printing | Embroidery | |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Flat, ink on fabric. Bold and graphic. | Raised stitched thread. Smart and textured. |
| Best on | T-shirts, hoodies, tote bags, event kit. | Polos, fleeces, jackets, caps, workwear. |
| Detail | Handles photographs, gradients and fine detail. | Simplified detail — very small text is redrawn. |
| Colours | Full colour possible with DTF and transfers. | Matched to thread shades, usually up to 8–12. |
| Large designs | Yes — back prints and full-front graphics. | Practical up to chest and back badge sizes. |
| Durability | Good; depends on method and wash care. | Very hard-wearing, ideal for daily workwear. |
| Set-up | Screen set-up per colour, or none for DTF. [CONFIRM WITH CLIENT] | One-off digitising charge per logo. [CONFIRM WITH CLIENT] |
Frequently asked
Which printing method will you use?
It depends on the artwork, the garment and the quantity. We'll recommend the right one when we quote. Methods currently offered: [CONFIRM WITH CLIENT].
Is there a minimum order?
Minimum order quantity: [CONFIRM WITH CLIENT]. Smaller runs are usually possible using DTF or transfers.
How long does printing take?
Turnaround from proof approval: [CONFIRM WITH CLIENT]. Tell us your deadline and we'll confirm whether it's achievable before you commit.
Can you print more than one colour?
Yes. Screen printing prices by the number of colours; DTF and transfers handle full colour in one pass.
Will you send a proof?
Yes — a visual showing position, size and colours. Nothing goes into production until you approve it.
How should printed garments be washed?
Wash inside out at 30°C, avoid the tumble dryer where possible and don't iron directly over the print. Full care guidance goes out with your order.
Send us your logo and we'll price it.
Call 0113 279 7971 or use the quote form.