Are you planning to launch a t-shirt printing company in London? If you do, you can create your own design. Now with the advanced technologies, printing is more fun, where you have a lot of options to explore. 

But instead of choosing the mainstream printing method, you need to know all kinds of printing methods that are available out there. In this article, I will discuss all kinds of t-shirt printing methods in London. Hence, you can easily decide which method would be convenient and beneficial for your business. Some of these techniques also combine embroidery options. 

 

So, if you are looking for a budget-friendly printing option or a high-tech one, I hope you will be able to find the suitable one from this article. 

 

T-shirt Printing Methods in London

There are about four kinds of printing methods that are widely used in London. Some of them are meant for printing in bulk. At the same time, some other kinds are for quick and easy printing. Firstly, I will start with the most hyped ones. And each of the printing methods will also mention their strengths and drawbacks.

 

1. Direct-to-Garment Printing (DTG)

 

The direct-to-garment printing method is also known as DTG printing. It works with an inkjet printer where you can print any kind of artwork. Here, just like paper printing, you can directly imprint the design on the fabric. Generally, this printing is used for image or artwork printing on t-shirts. As you print, you will get high-quality printing of any colour. 

 

Considering the versatility you can enjoy with this printing method, it's quite expensive compared to others. However, you won't have to worry about any setting-up expenses. This simple aspect makes it a suitable printing option for small-quantity orders. 

 

 How does it work? 

 

Though you don't need any set-up cost to bear, you need to set up the pre-treatment procedure in the DTG printing method. First, you need to warm up the T-shirt using heat. This will allow the design to be set on the material. Then, as you print, the ink will be printed on the fabric and set without soaking it through. 

 

Strengths	Limitations
Fast printing	Expensive cost
Best suited for any multi-coloured design	Gets fades over time with wash
Seamless printing makes it comfortable to wear	Recommended for cotton t-shirts only

 

2. Screen Printing

 

Screen printing is one of the most popular and common printing methods in London. Previously, it was done with hands. Now, with the help of advanced technology, you will need less time to set up and bear the minimal cost of screen printing. Another reason for its popularity is you can print the design for bulk orders. 

 

How does it work?

 

As the name suggests, the screen printing method requires a stencil or screen to transfer the design to the t-shirt. The ink is laid on the screen and applied to the fabric using a mesh screen. For the screen printing method, a special kind of ink is used, which is quite thicker than the other printing methods. However, it will give you a long-lasting and vibrant outcome. 

 

Strengths	Limitations
Fast printing process	The process is a bit messy
Suitable for large orders	Limited colour option to print
It does not fade with wash	It can be expensive for small orders
Outstanding and long-lasting print quality	Print is done on a specific or limited area
It can be used for cotton, polyester, gabardine and others

 

 

3. Heat Transfer Printing Methods

 

It's another printing method that is also popular in London. The best aspect of this printing method is you don't require any special ink or dye. The reason for its popularity is its versatility. You can transfer any design of any colour onto the fabric in this method. If you intend to create custom t-shirts for events, personal use, birthdays, anniversary, graduation etc., this printing method is the ideal one. 

 

How does it work? 

 

As you already realize that this printing method uses heat to print. Unlike other printing options, you can print the design all over the t-shirt in this process. There is a wide range of variations in heat transfer methods. Let's discuss them all.

 

All-over printing (AOP)

 

All-over printing is widely known as dye sublimation printing. In this method, the graphical design is transferred on a heat transfer paper first. Then, the design is printed on the t-shirt through gas-oriented heat. So, if you are thinking of creating jerseys, then you can go for the dye sublimation method. It will be cost-effective too. 

 

Strengths	Drawbacks
The design won't crack or fade	Not suitable for cotton
Ensures long-lasting and vibrant print	Expensive printing method
Recommended for polyester and synthetic t-shirts	Cant be used for all-over printing
	Limited colour options, works best on white

 

4. Direct-to-Film Printing (DTF)

 

Another common printing technique is DTF printing. Here, the design is transferred to polyethene terephthalate film. Then, it's printed on a t-shirt using heat or adhesive powder. Unlike DTG, you don't need to pre-treat the fabric because it's already pre-treated on the film. It adds more convenience to the business. It's also suitable for all kinds of material. As you print, the outcome will be shiny and plastic-like.

 

Strengths	Limitations
Long-lasting colour	Complicated printing technique
Ensures vibrant design	Print is touchable and plastic-like
Suitable for cotton, polyester and other kinds of fabric	Suitable for small quantity items like t-shirts, masks, pillow covers

 

 

5. CAD Heat Transfer Vinyl Printing

 

Here is an advanced printing technique, and it's called CAD. It's a heat transfer vinyl method which is used mostly on jerseys. If you intend to print t-shirts for athletes, then this method is for you. You can print the player's name, number, company logo etc. 

 

In the CAD printing technique, the design is cut out with a machine, and then it's transferred on vinyl with heat. Later, the design is printed on the t-shirt with a heat press. 

 

Strengths	Limitations
Suitable for athletes' attire	Printing requires special accessories
It can be used on any material	Cut out process only works on text-oriented design

 

Final thought 

 

Now you know the popular and most common types of t-shirt printing methods in London. No matter if you want to print small quantity t-shirts or bulk, you can choose from any of the DTG, screen printing or heat transfer methods. The choice is yours, which printing technique you would decide. However, remember to check the strengths and drawbacks beforehand.