Decoration · · 7 min read
Updated
DTG, Screen Print, Puff Print and Embroidery on Heavyweight Garments
How to choose decoration for heavyweight fleece and tees by artwork, fabric, color count, quantity, wash target, setup and sample evidence.
By MadeOnBlank guides · Supplier-published guidance
Short answer
No decoration method is universally best. Choose by artwork detail and colour count, fabric face and thickness, quantity, intended wash and the evidence you can inspect — then approve a sample on the exact garment before committing to a run.
On this page
Decoration should follow the artwork, fabric, quantity, hand feel, wash target and inspection method. No method is universally best, and the current project does not publish verified DTG, screen-print, puff-print or embroidery costs.
When does DTG make sense?
Direct-to-garment can suit detailed, multi-color artwork and small tests where setup is not the main cost driver. Results depend on pretreatment, fabric face, ink system, curing, artwork, color and wash care. Ask for a sample on the exact garment and inspect it after an agreed wash test. Do not publish a cost or durability claim without a current quote and test.
When does screen printing make sense?
Screen printing can suit repeat artwork and larger quantities where setup is spread across units. Color count, mesh, ink, underbase, registration, print area, fabric texture and curing change the result. Puff or specialty inks add their own compatibility and wash-test requirements. A nominal quantity threshold is not universal; request a quote for the artwork and garment.
When does embroidery make sense?
Embroidery can work well for logos and smaller placements. Stitch count, density, backing, thread, needle path, garment thickness, placement and digitizing affect hand feel and appearance. Dense or oversized artwork can distort a garment or become uncomfortable. Approve a strike-off or sample before a larger run.
How do you choose between them?
| Question | What to compare |
|---|---|
| Artwork | Detail, gradients, color count, line weight, physical size |
| Fabric | Face texture, fleece loft, stretch, seam and garment thickness |
| Quantity | Setup, digitizing, screens, per-unit cost and re-orderability |
| Wash | Method, temperature, abrasion, curing and appearance after test |
| Evidence | Artwork proof, sample, inspection criteria and accepted tolerance |
Compare the catalog-listed decoration examples in the capability guide; the product pages show which options are listed for each style, and final compatibility still depends on the artwork and garment. Send artwork in the original vector or high-resolution format, include the garment specification, and state the intended wash and quantity. Request a decoration review before using a process description or cost in customer-facing content.
Common questions
Is DTG or screen printing better for heavyweight fleece?
Neither is better in general. DTG can suit detailed, multi-colour artwork and small tests where setup is not the main cost driver. Screen printing can suit repeat artwork and larger quantities where setup is spread across units.
At what quantity should I switch from DTG to screen printing?
There is no universal threshold. Setup, colour count, artwork, fabric and re-order plans all change the answer, so request a quote for your specific artwork and garment.
Can embroidery be used for any artwork or placement?
No. Stitch count, density, backing, thread, needle path, garment thickness and placement affect hand feel and appearance, and dense or oversized artwork can distort a garment. Approve a strike-off or sample before a larger run.
How do I know a print will survive washing?
Ask for a sample on the exact garment and inspect it after an agreed wash test. Do not publish a durability claim without a current test result.
What should I send to get a decoration review?
Send artwork in the original vector or high-resolution format, the garment specification, the intended wash and the quantity.
Sources & scope
Decoration-selection checklist. Product compatibility, process settings and wash performance require technical review and an approved sample.
- Epson: DTG and DTFilm printing explained
General process background; not evidence of MadeOnBlank equipment or test performance.
Technical reviewer: pending confirmation. Use the guide to prepare your brief. Product and process approval still requires the actual garment, artwork and order review.
Publishing team, evidence standards & corrections →Put your artwork on a garment.
Start with your own piece, or plan a batch for your brand.