Different Print Types and What They Mean for Graphic Tee Quality

Graphic tees have long been a favourite among customers who are not only looking to look good, but wanting art, brands, and statements that are wearable. The print method has a huge impact on how the print looks, feels, and lasts over time, and washes, and poor print types mean a cracked design and faded t-shirt.

Here’s a look at some of the most common graphic tee printing methods and their quality, durability, and comfort.

Screen Printing

Screen printing is a method that is one of the oldest- it involves pushing ink through a mesh screen onto the fabric, one colour at a time. This method is great for designs that are bold, for large production runs and for long-lasting prints as it is extremely durable, stays bright after washes and is often considered a premium option for graphic tees because of these features.

Direct to Garment (DTG) Printing

DTG printing prints the design directly into the shirt fibers- it is great for detailed artwork, photo prints and small-batch or custom orders. They have a soft feel, high detail and great colour blending, and a natural integration with fabric. Compared with screen printing, they can fade quicker, and only works the best on high-quality cotton, which is expensive.

Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV)

HTV uses heat and pressure to apply a vinyl design onto fabric. This is ideal for names and numbers, logos that are simple and sport-style shirts, and they have a smooth texture with strong colour quality. They are durable for simple designs and great for personalisation, but they are less breathable than other printing methods and they may crack or peel as time and washes happen. It is not ideal for large graphics either, and doesn’t offer the same premium look and feel as other methods.

Puff Printing

Puff printing uses a specific type of ink that expands when it is heated, creating a raised 3D texture on the t-shirt. This distinct visual depth effect is great for streetwear aesthetics and bold typing, adding a dimension to the designs that other printing methods lack. However, you have to be very careful about how you wash these as they are more delicate than flat prints, and the appearance will only last if properly looked after.

Sublimation Printing

This method of printing uses heat to turn dye into gas, something that embeds the design directly into polyester fibres. It is great for bright designs, sportswear, and bigger prints, and the permanent dye integration means that the colours last a long time. The designs generally don’t crack or peel and have a lightweight feel; they only really work on polyester materials, and they are less effective on garments that are a darker colour.

Understanding different printing methods is the best way to help you choose a graphic t-shirt that will look amazing and also last over time. Depending on the style you want and the fabric type of the t-shirt, you can use this guide to make a good judgment and be assured that you are choosing a high-quality garment that will be comfortable, stylish, and will last.

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