Custom Apparel Printing Methods

Screen Printing, Embroidery, DTG & DTF

When creating custom apparel, choosing the right printing method can make a big difference in the final look, durability, and cost of your garments.

At Hardboiled Inc., we offer several professional decoration techniques including screen printing, embroidery, DTG printing, and DTF printing. Each method has unique advantages depending on your design, garment type, and order size.

This guide explains the most common custom apparel printing methods so you can choose the best option for your project.

Screen Printing

Screen printing is one of the most popular and durable methods for producing custom apparel. This technique uses mesh screens to apply layers of ink directly onto garments, creating vibrant prints that hold up well over time.

Screen printing is ideal for:

  • large orders
  • bold designs
  • band merch
  • corporate apparel
  • event shirts

 

It’s especially popular for custom t-shirts, hoodies, and promotional apparel.

Learn More About Screen Printing

Embroidery

Embroidery uses stitched thread to create a raised, textured logo on garments. This method provides a premium and professional appearance that works particularly well for corporate apparel and uniforms.

Embroidery is commonly used on:

  • polos
  • hats
  • jackets
  • hoodies
  • workwear

 

Because the design is stitched into the garment, embroidery is extremely durable and long-lasting.

Learn More About Embroidery

DTG Printing (Direct-to-Garment)

DTG printing is a digital printing method that applies water-based inks directly onto fabric. It works similarly to a high-resolution inkjet printer and is capable of producing detailed full-colour artwork.

DTG printing is ideal for:

  • small production runs
  • designs with many colours
  • photographic images
  • artist and band merch

 

Because DTG does not require screen setup, it is a great option for smaller orders.

Learn More About DTG Printing

DTF Printing (Direct-to-Film)

DTF printing is a newer printing technology that prints designs onto transfer film before heat pressing them onto garments. This method works well on many types of fabrics including cotton, polyester, and blends.

DTF printing is popular for:

  • athletic apparel
  • team uniforms
  • performance fabrics
  • smaller orders with complex designs

 

DTF allows vibrant full-colour prints on a wide variety of garments.

Learn More About DTF Printing

How to Choose the Right Print Method

The best printing method depends on several factors, including your design, garment type, and order size.

For example:

  • Screen printing is best for large orders
  • DTG works well for small runs with detailed artwork
  • DTF is ideal for synthetic fabrics
  • Embroidery creates a premium stitched look

 

If you’re unsure which option is best for your project, our team can help recommend the right method based on your artwork and budget.

Compare Our Printing Methods

Decoration Method

Best For

MOQ

Setup Fee

Pros

Cons

Screen Printing

Bulk t-shirt, promo apparel

12pcs

$40 per screen

Cost-effective in large volumes, vibrant and durable

Not ideal for low quantities or multicolour art

Embroidery

Hats, polos, workwear

12pcs

$60 digitizing fee

Professional finish, long-lasting

Not suited for intricate shading or tiny details

DTG

Short run t-shirts, detailed artwork

12pcs

None

Great for full-colour and small orders

Best on 100% cotton; not great for all fabrics

DTF

Other than cotton apparel, high detail or full colour art

6pcs

None

Works on many fabrics, excellent detail

Slightly different texture than traditional prints

Need it Fast?

We offer rush services for all decoration methods. If you’re on a tight timeline, let us know and we’ll do our best to accommodate.

Need Help with Design?

Our team can help clean up your artwork or create something from scratch. We also have design templates in our online designer to make things easy.

Custom Apparel Printing in Toronto

Hardboiled Inc. has been producing custom apparel and promotional products since 2001. Our Toronto shop works with businesses, bands, restaurants, schools, and organizations to produce high-quality branded merchandise.

Our services include:

  • screen printing
  • embroidery
  • DTG printing
  • DTF printing
  • promotional products

 

Whether you're printing merch, uniforms, or event apparel, we can help you find the best printing method for your project.

Get Started Today

Browse our apparel catalogue to choose the perfect garment for your custom project, or contact us to request a quote and get expert help choosing the right decoration method.

Request a quote

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