It's never been easier to create custom clothing and merchandise than it is today. In Kalispell, MT, Bitterroot Screen Printers has been creating personalized T-shirts and various goods since 1991, and as their name suggests, they specialize in screen printing. However, they also offer a newer fabric printing option, called direct-to-garment printing.

While screen printing involves manually squeezing ink through a mesh screen onto fabric, direct-to-garment printing is less hands-on and works similarly to inkjet printing. These differences in technique mean different advantages and disadvantages, as well as different applications. To help make things easier for you, Bitterroot Screen Printers have assembled a list of some of the most common issues.

What’s The Difference Between Screen Printing & Direct-To-Garment Printing?

Quantity

If you need a large number of shirts printed, at least more than 12, it's more than likely that screen printing will be the most cost-effective options. For fewer items or less frequent printing, direct-to-garment may be the best choice.

Color

When it comes to the number of colors you use, the cost may be the major deciding factor; with screen printing, individual screens need to be made for every color. If you're looking for a truly full-color image, direct-to-garment is the way to go. However, although there is incredible versatility with finding the perfect shade when you use direct-to-garment printing, the colors are still not as vivid as the inks used for screen printing.

Texture

Screen printing offers a much smoother finish. If you’ve ever had a shirt or tote bag with an almost imperceptible raised texture, it was probably screen printed. Direct-to-garment printers can feel much more prominent.

Fabric Options

Bitterroot Screen Printers can apply screen printing on practically any fabric, whether it’s cotton or 100% nylon. Direct-to-garment printing, on the other hand, is limited to fabrics that are mostly cotton.

Printing Positioning

Because screen printing is done manually, there are many more customization options. Regardless of the size or shape of the item, all that's required is the space to put the screen. With direct-to-garment printing, there are some limitations due to the way the garment gets fed through the printer.

When you need to print T-shirts, whether it's for your business, organization, or for personal reasons, Bitterroot Screen Printers will be able to deliver high-quality results. They also offer vehicle wraps, banners, embroidery services, and more. To get started, visit their website or call (406) 752-1386 today.