One Design, Three Print Missions
When it comes to print operations, the mission is simple — produce the best outcome possible, with precision and consistency. But here’s the question: can you really see a difference between print methods in the field? We put that to the test.
Using the same full-color design from our allies at Palmr Style, we executed three separate print operations — Screen Printing, Direct-to-Garment (DTG), and Direct-to-Film (DTF) — all on the same shirt, same art file, same conditions. The objective: evaluate clarity, detail, and overall print performance. Let’s break it down.
Each method has its place in the field.
In the end, screen printing remains the proven choice for high-stakes operations — the perfect balance of sharp detail, soft feel, and long-term performance.
This is our bread and butter. Screen printing has been battle-tested for decades, and we’ve refined our process down to a science. Using a Simulated Process Printing method, we deployed 11 screens to achieve full-spectrum color accuracy and soft-hand print feel.
Results:
The level of photorealistic detail was outstanding — colors were strong, transitions smooth, and the overall finish mission-ready. While the setup requires more time and precision than other methods, the final product delivers elite results: maximum color depth, coverage, and a soft, durable finish.
Strengths:
Weaknesses:
We don’t typically deploy DTG in our operations — it doesn’t meet our long-term durability or vibrancy standards. But for this test, we ran it through its paces to see how it stacked up.
Results:
DTG handled color gradients well, producing unlimited ink color variations and solid photorealistic results. However, its print coverage and color intensity fell short compared to screen printing. The “Palmr” lettering, for example, lost some sharpness and vibrancy — not something we’d sign off on for mission use.
Strengths:
Weaknesses:
DTF has quickly earned a spot in the ranks for short runs and full-color designs. The method uses a printed film transfer that delivers solid, vibrant results with sharp details — and it shows.
Results:
The print was crisp, full coverage was excellent, and every fine line in the Palmr design came through clean. However, the print surface has a heavier hand feel — not as soft as screen printing, but solid and dependable.
Strengths:
Weaknesses:
