Printing & Branding Methods Explained: Screen Printing vs DTF vs Embroidery vs Sublimation

The right branding method depends on your design, your fabric, and your order volume. Here’s a straightforward comparison of the four most common methods.

Screen Printing

Ink is pushed through a mesh stencil, one colour at a time. It’s the most cost-efficient method at high volumes with simple, solid-colour logos, and produces a durable print that holds up to repeated washing. It becomes less economical for designs with many colours or for very small print runs, since each colour needs its own screen.

DTF (Direct-to-Film)

The design is printed onto a special film, then heat-pressed onto the garment. DTF handles full-colour, photographic designs well, works on cotton, polyester and blends, and is efficient for small-to-medium runs and designs with many colours or gradients — without the setup cost of multiple screens.

Embroidery

The design is stitched directly into the fabric using thread. It’s the standard choice for corporate logos on polos, uniforms and caps, because it looks premium and is extremely durable — it won’t crack, fade or peel the way a printed logo eventually can. It’s best suited to smaller logos and simpler shapes rather than large, highly detailed artwork.

Sublimation

Dye is infused directly into polyester fibres using heat, so the print becomes part of the fabric rather than sitting on top of it. This means it never cracks or peels, and it’s the standard method for all-over prints and sports jerseys — but it only works well on polyester or poly-heavy fabrics, and doesn’t hold on 100% cotton.

Which Should You Choose?

Not sure which fits your design? Send us the artwork and quantity, and we’ll recommend the most cost-effective method — and include a physical sample before the bulk run.