When it comes to designing custom T-shirts, selecting the right types of t-shirt printing can make all the difference. The right printing technique determines colour vibrancy, durability, texture, and cost, making it essential to understand the available options.
From traditional screen printing to modern direct-to-garment (DTG) and heat transfer techniques, each method offers unique advantages depending on the order size, fabric type, and design complexity. Whether you're printing T-shirts for personal use, promotional events, or retail sales, knowing the different types of shirt printing will help you make the best choice.
Screen printing, also known as silkscreen printing, involves pushing ink through a mesh stencil onto the fabric. It is one of the most widely used and reliable types of printing on shirts, especially for bulk orders.
| Best For | Advantages | Disadvantages | When to Use |
| Bulk orders, promotional T-shirts, uniforms | Durable prints that last through many washes | Not cost-effective for small batches | Best for designs with 1–3 solid colours |
| Designs with vibrant colours | High-quality, bold prints | Complex designs with gradients or small details may be difficult | When ordering 50+ shirts |
| Cotton and polyester fabrics | Cost-efficient for large runs | Set-up can be expensive due to screen preparation | Ideal for team apparel and corporate branding |
Screen printing is ideal for bold, long-lasting prints on cotton or polyester fabrics but is not the best choice for highly detailed designs with many colours.
DTG printing works similarly to an inkjet printer, directly applying ink onto the T-shirt fabric. This method is excellent for high-detail, full-colour prints on cotton shirts.
| Best For | Advantages | Disadvantages | When to Use |
| Small orders & one-off custom shirts | Photorealistic quality with intricate details | Less durable compared to screen printing | Ideal for one-time events |
| Full-colour designs | No need for screens or stencils | Can be costly per print | Great for customized gifts |
| 100% cotton fabrics | Soft finish – no thick ink layers | Slower process than screen printing | Best for small businesses & print-on-demand |
DTG printing is the go-to option for detailed and colourful designs but may not be cost-effective for large orders.
Heat transfer printing involves transferring a pre-printed design onto fabric using heat and pressure. It is commonly done with vinyl sheets or transfer paper.
| Best For | Advantages | Disadvantages | When to Use |
| Small batch orders | Ideal for individual name/number customization | Not as long-lasting as screen printing | Perfect for sports jerseys |
| Complex multi-colour designs | Works on different fabric types | Can crack or fade over time | Great for promotional merchandise |
| Low-cost printing needs | No set-up costs | Not as breathable on fabric | Use for short-term wear designs |
Heat transfer is a great low-cost, high-detail solution for small orders and personalized apparel.
Vinyl cutting involves precision cutting designs from vinyl sheets and applying them to fabric using a heat press. This method is popular for lettering, logos, and single-colour graphics.
| Best For | Advantages | Disadvantages | When to Use |
| Sportswear, team uniforms | Durable and long-lasting | Limited to single-colour designs | Best for sports jerseys & promotional wear |
| Simple designs | Crisp and professional appearance | Not ideal for large or complex designs | Great for custom lettering & numbers |
| Polyester & cotton blends | No fading or cracking | Can feel slightly thick on fabric | Ideal for high-wear garments |
Vinyl cutting is excellent for custom team apparel and work uniforms, ensuring sharp and long-lasting designs.
Sublimation printing is a dye-based process where ink is converted into gas and infused into the fabric fibres, resulting in vibrant, permanent prints.
| Best For | Advantages | Disadvantages | When to Use |
| Polyester fabrics | Long-lasting, high-quality prints | Only works on light-coloured fabrics | Ideal for sports jerseys & activewear |
| All-over prints | No peeling, cracking, or fading | Not suitable for cotton | Best for photo-realistic designs |
| Breathable fabrics | Soft feel with no ink layer | More expensive than other methods | Use for high-end performance apparel |
Sublimation printing is a premium choice for polyester T-shirts, ensuring vibrant, all-over prints.
Discharge printing uses water-based ink to remove the fabric’s dye before replacing it with the desired design, resulting in soft, vintage-style prints.
| Best For | Advantages | Disadvantages | When to Use |
| Soft, breathable designs | No thick ink layer | Only works on darker fabrics | Perfect for retro-style T-shirts |
| Vintage or faded effects | Creates natural-feeling prints | Limited colour options | Best for boutique fashion brands |
| High-end fashion apparel | Eco-friendly water-based ink | Not suitable for synthetic fabrics | Use for specialty designs |
Discharge printing is perfect for subtle, soft-touch prints on dark cotton fabrics.
At Toronto Tees, we offer high-quality t-shirt printing using industry-leading methods, including:
Our in-house printing ensures fast turnaround, professional results, and vibrant, durable prints.
When it comes to professional t-shirt printing, Toronto Tees delivers:
✔ Top-tier print quality for lasting designs
✔ Fast service & same-day printing
✔ Custom options for businesses, events, and personal use
Looking for different types of prints for your next custom T-shirt? Contact Toronto Tees today for the best high-quality t-shirt printing in the city!
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