Compare
DTF versus the alternatives.
If you already know you need DTF, skip this page and open the builder. If you are still deciding, this is the honest version.
| DTF | Screen print | Vinyl | Sublimation | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small runs | No setup. One piece is fine. | Setup cost kills short runs. | Fine, slow to weed. | Fine, light poly only. |
| Colour | Full colour, gradients, photos. | Spot colours. Process is extra. | Solid colours, limited. | Vivid, on polyester. |
| Dark garments | Yes. White underbase is printed. | Yes, with underbase. | Yes. | No. |
| Hand feel | Thin, soft after wash-in. | Soft if printed well. | Plastic layer, noticeable. | Dye, no hand. |
| Detail | Fine type and small logos. | Depends on mesh and skill. | Cut limits detail. | Photographic. |
| Durability | Wash-tested past 50 cycles. | Excellent. | Edges lift over time. | Excellent on poly. |
| Speed to first piece | Same day if before 16:00. | Days, screens, dry. | Hours of weeding. | Hours, if you have a press. |
Screen is still right for huge one-colour runs. Vinyl is still right for one-off names on a Friday night. Sublimation is still right for all-over poly. For everything else a print shop actually sells — short runs, full colour, mixed fabrics — DTF is the tool.