Screen Printing and Heat Transfers: Which is Different?
Published by: Siobhan Ingram
Date: 04-05-2025
Screen printing and heat transfers are two of the most common methods of t-shirt printing, hoodies, or any other apparel. So which one is best? The short answer: it depends on your design, your budget, and how long the print has to last.
Let's get into the differences so you can decide on the best option for your next custom merch order.
Screen Printing: The Pro's Choice
Screen printing is the pro's choice for high-quality, long-lasting prints. It's achieved by pushing ink through a mesh screen onto fabric, layer by layer. The outcome is rich, vivid prints that survive wash after wash.
✔ Pros: Long, long-lasting—won't crack or peel over time.
Deep colors with a silky, professional finish.
Economical for bulk orders (the more you print, the cheaper per unit).
❌ Cons: Not ideal for small orders—screen setup fee makes low-quantity printing expensive.
Restricted colors per design (each color requires a separate screen).
Best for solid graphics—not best for detailed, multi-color graphics like photos.
Best for: Large quantities, company tees, team shirts, and classic graphic tees.
Heat Transfers: Versatile & Detailed
Heat transfers utilize heat and pressure to transfer a design onto fabric. The design is printed onto transfer paper or vinyl first, and then applied to the clothing.
✔ Advantages: Perfect for small orders—no screen setup required.
Can handle full-color, detailed designs (even photographs).
Good for on-demand printing (perfect for one-off, customized items).
❌ Disadvantages: Not as long-lasting as screen printing—will peel or crack over time.
Feels heavier on the garment (depending on the quality of transfer you use).
More costly for bulk runs—applied individually to each garment.
Best for: Small runs, one-off custom, and full-colour or detailed designs.
So, Which One Will You Use?
If you're after high-quality, long-lasting prints for a bulk order, go with screen printing. If you're after detailed, full-color prints in smaller quantities, however, heat transfers might be the way to go.