8 Most Popular Shirt Printing Types: Custom T-Shirts Guide

With this day and age being fashion-forward, custom t-shirts are not only clothes—they're a way to express yourself, promote a brand, or create memories that last a lifetime. Whether you'd like to create a fashion statement, design your uniforms, or start your own clothing business, the method you implement for T shirt printing can work wonders. From personal gifts to branding your company, knowing the facts when it comes to your printing options will assist you in making the proper decision when you buy custom t shirts online.

In this guide, we’ll break down the 8 most popular types of shirt printing and how each one suits different needs, budgets, and design styles.

1. Screen Printing

What is it?

Also referred to as silkscreen printing, this old process is done by producing a stencil (screen) and transferring layers of ink onto the fabric using it. Each color means a different screen.

Pros:

• Bold and bright prints

• Durable and long-lasting

• Affordable for bulk orders

Cons:

• Not ideal for multi-colored or complex designs

• More setup cost for low runs

Best used for: Team uniforms, promotional apparel, and bulk custom t-shirts.

2. Direct-to-Garment (DTG) Printing

What is it?

DTG printing uses a specialized inkjet printer to print water-based ink directly onto the garment, producing high-quality prints with numerous colors.

Pros:

• Perfect for detailed and fine designs

• Soft to the touch

• Perfect for low orders

Cons:

• Best done on 100% cotton tees

• More time-consuming printing process compared to others

Perfect for: Photo-realistic prints, low orders, and custom t shirts online.

3. Heat Transfer Printing

What is it?

Heat transfer involves printing a design onto special transfer paper and then applying heat and pressure to imprint the image onto the shirt.

Pros:

• Good for multi-colored designs

• Best for DIY and limited runs

• Simple setup process

Cons:

• Cracks or degrades with time

• Less breathable design area

Best for: Custom t-shirts for once-off events, limited-run purposes, and DIY shirts.

Best for: DIY shirts, short-run events, and one-time-use custom t-shirts.

4. Sublimation Printing

What is it?

Sublimation is a chemical process where heat turns ink into gas, which then embeds into polyester fabric. The result is a vivid, full-color design that becomes part of the fabric.

Pros:

• Long-lasting and doesn’t fade or crack

• Entire garment can be printed

• Lightweight feel with no ink buildup

Cons:

• Only works on light-colored polyester

• Not suitable for cotton

Best for: Sports apparel, all-over designs, and trendy customized t shirts online.

5. Vinyl Cutting

What is it?

Vinyl printing involves cutting out designs from colored vinyl sheets and heat pressing them onto the shirt. It’s popular for custom names and numbers.

Pros:

• Sharp and clean finish

• Great for simple designs and lettering

• Variety of textures available (glossy, matte, glitter)

Cons:

• Not suitable for complex or multicolor designs

• Can feel thick or stiff

Best for: Jerseys, event shirts, and custom name T shirt printing.

6. Plastisol Transfers

What is it?

This is a hybrid technique where screen-printed designs are printed onto a special transfer paper and later heat pressed onto the fabric.

Pros:

• Combines the quality of screen printing with the flexibility of transfers

• Easy to store and use later

• Good for high-detail prints

Cons:

• May not feel as soft as other methods

• Requires precise heat application

Best for: Print-on-demand businesses and flexible custom t-shirts stock.

7. Discharge Printing

What is it?

Discharge printing removes the shirt’s original dye using a chemical process and replaces it with the desired ink color. This gives a soft, worn-in feel.

Pros:

• Very soft feel on the shirt

• Works great for vintage looks

• High detail possible on dark fabrics

Cons:

• Works best on 100% cotton

• Color accuracy can vary

Best for: Retro-style custom t-shirts and faded graphic looks.

8. Puff and Crackle Ink Printing

What is it?

These are specialty inks that create textured effects—puff ink expands when heated to create a raised print, while crackle ink creates a weathered, cracked appearance.

Pros:

• Unique texture and visual appeal

• Adds a tactile element to designs

• Trendy and creative

Cons:

• Not ideal for complex or photo-based prints

• Requires careful handling and curing

Best for: Fashion-forward T shirt printing and bold artistic designs.

How to Choose the Right T Shirt Printing Method

Choosing the right t-shirt printing technique depends on several key factors. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you make the best choice:

1.Design Complexity

•If your design has fine details, gradients, or photo-realistic images, go for Direct-to-Garment (DTG) or Sublimation printing.

•For simple logos, bold shapes, or solid colors, Screen Printing or Vinyl Cutting will work best.

2.Order Quantity

•For large batches (e.g., uniforms, bulk promotions), Screen Printing is cost-effective.

•For small or one-off orders, choose DTG, Heat Transfer, or Vinyl Cutting.

3.Fabric Type

•Sublimation works only on light-colored polyester fabrics.

•DTG and Discharge Printing are ideal for 100% cotton.

•Heat Transfer, Screen Printing, and Vinyl Cutting are more versatile across fabric blends.

4.Durability Needs

•Need long-lasting prints? Opt for Screen Printing or Sublimation.

•For occasional or one-time use, Heat Transfer or Plastisol Transfers are good enough.

5.Budget

•If you’re working with a tight budget on bulk orders, Screen Printing offers great value.

•For smaller runs with a moderate budget, go with DTG or Heat Transfer.

6.Desired Finish & Texture

•Want a soft, worn-in feel? Try Discharge Printing.

•For a 3D, raised or textured look, use Puff Ink or Crackle Ink.

•If you want a smooth and sleek finish, Vinyl Cutting is the way to go.

By considering these points, you can confidently select the best method for your custom t-shirts, ensuring the final product meets your expectations in quality, cost, and style.

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Final Thoughts

Whether you’re designing for a corporate event, launching a fashion brand, or simply adding flair to your wardrobe, custom t-shirts offer endless possibilities. But the success of your project heavily depends on choosing the right T shirt printing technique. From vibrant DTG designs to vintage discharge prints, there’s a method for every purpose and budget.

So next time you’re browsing for customized t shirts online, refer back to this guide to ensure you make the best decision for your unique needs.

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