How To Print On T-shirts And Fabric: The Complete Guide

You’re not alone if you’ve ever wanted to customise your t-shirts or fabric with unique designs. T-shirt printing has become an increasingly popular way to showcase personal style, commemorate events, or promote businesses. However, with so many methods available, it is challenging to understand how to print a T-shirt and fabric using the proper techniques.

At Printingprogress, we specialise in vinyl and direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, and in this guide, we’ll focus on these two techniques to help you create high-quality, personalised t-shirts and fabric prints.

Would you like to speak to our team and discuss how to place the T-shirt logo to get more visibility or understand the best printing methods on fabric? We specialise in professional printing, graphic design, embroidery, branding services, and more. Learn more from us – call on 0800 999 1094 or email us at info@printingprogress.co.uk today.

T-Shirt Printing Techniques Recommended By Experts

There are various methods of fabric printing. However, our printing experts concentrate on the two most effective and durable techniques: vinyl printing and direct-to-garment (DTG) printing. Each method offers unique benefits, and the choice depends on the design, fabric type, and purpose of the customisation.

1. Vinyl Printing

Vinyl printing involves cutting designs from sheets of coloured vinyl and heat-pressing them onto fabric. This method is particularly popular for bold designs, logos, and lettering.

Advantages of Vinyl Printing:

• Durability: Vinyl prints are long-lasting and resistant to cracking or fading, making them ideal for sportswear or work uniforms.
• Vibrant colours: Vinyl produces sharp, vibrant colours that stand out on any fabric.
• Customisation: You can mix and match different colours and finishes, including matte, glossy, and metallic effects.

Best Use Cases:

• Simple designs with bold colours or solid shapes.
• Personalised t-shirts for events like birthdays, team sports, or corporate branding.

2. Direct-To-Garment (DTG) Printing

DTG printing uses advanced inkjet technology to print designs directly onto fabric. It’s perfect for detailed and multicoloured designs.

Advantages of DTG Printing:

• Unlimited colours: DTG printing can produce intricate, full-colour designs with gradients and fine details.
• Soft feel: The fabric absorbs the ink, creating a smooth finish without adding bulk.
• Eco-friendly: DTG printing uses water-based inks, making it an environmentally friendly option.

Best Use Cases:

• Photographic designs or detailed artwork.
• Customised t-shirts for personal use or gifts.

Which Printing Is Best For A T-Shirt And Fabric?

Deciding between vinyl and DTG printing depends on your specific needs. If you’re looking for simple, bold designs that need to withstand heavy use, vinyl is a fantastic choice. On the other hand, if you want a customised t-shirt with a photo or a detailed, colourful design, DTG printing is the way to go. Both methods are highly effective and produce professional results when done by experts at Printingprogress.

Custom T-Shirt Printing Tips

1. Choose the right fabric: Cotton or cotton-blend fabrics work best for vinyl and DTG printing. Ensure the fabric is smooth and pre-washed to avoid shrinkage or uneven prints.
2. Choose the right finish: For vinyl printing, consider finishes like matte or metallic to enhance the look of your design. The finish can significantly impact the final appearance.
3. Focus on design: Keep your design simple for vinyl printing and explore intricate details with DTG. High-resolution images ensure crisp results.
4. Pick the right colours: Opt for vibrant or white designs for dark fabrics to create contrast. For light fabrics, any colour works beautifully.
5. Consider the purpose: For promotional t-shirts, bold logos and slogans work well with vinyl. For personalised gifts, DTG’s photographic quality is perfect.
6. Work with professionals: At Printingprogress, we ensure your designs are printed with precision and care, using state-of-the-art equipment and high-quality materials.
7. Check fabric compatibility: Always confirm that your chosen fabric is compatible with the printing technique. For instance, DTG works best on 100% cotton, while vinyl can adapt to blends.
8. Mind the placement: Plan your design carefully to ensure the final product looks balanced and appealing. Test placements on a sample t-shirt if possible.

Level Up Your Marketing Game With Printingprogress

At Printingprogress, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional results using vinyl and DTG printing techniques. Whether you want to personalise a single t-shirt or produce a large batch for your business, our expertise ensures your designs look stunning and last for years.

• Professional guidance: Whether you’re wondering how to print t-shirts at home or looking for a DIY fabric printing solution, we provide expert advice tailored to your needs.
• High-quality results: We use advanced vinyl and DTG printing techniques to ensure vibrant, durable prints that exceed expectations.
• Customised designs: From personalised t-shirts for events to intricate artwork on fabric, our team helps bring your ideas to life with precision and creativity.
• Wide service area: We proudly offer our services across various locations, ensuring you get access to top-notch printing solutions no matter where you are.
• Hassle-free experience: Leave the technicalities to us! Our team handles everything from design adjustments to final printing so you can focus on your vision.

Our team of experienced, internationally award-winning printers offers the best T-shirt printing techniques to make your prints stand out.

So, are you ready to get your T-shirts printed? Contact Printingprogress today on 0800 999 1094 or email us at info@printingprogress.co.uk. We’ll help you design your preferred garments with unique print effects to increase your marketing.