Printing Methods

Screen Printing vs DTF Printing in London

πŸ“… March 25, 2026 ✍️ Daniel Hayes ⏱️ 6 min read

Two of the most requested printing methods among London businesses β€” here's how they compare on cost, quality, and turnaround.

1. Which Method Londoners Request Most

Screen printing remains the top request for bulk corporate and event orders across London, while DTF has grown fast for small businesses ordering under 50 pieces.

2. Cost in the London Market

London screen printing typically starts around Β£3+ per piece at volume, while DTF starts slightly higher per piece but has no setup cost β€” often cheaper for small full-color runs.

3. Turnaround Time

DTF is usually faster for small orders since there's no screen setup, while screen printing needs a short setup lead time that pays off at higher volumes.

4. Our Recommendation

For London bulk orders (100+ pieces, few colors), choose screen printing. For small runs or full-color designs, DTF is usually the better value.

πŸ’‘ Pro Tip

Ask your London printer to quote both methods side by side for your specific design and quantity β€” the cost difference is often smaller than expected.

FactorScreen PrintingDTF Printing
Best ForBulk London ordersSmall London runs
Setup CostPer colorNone
TurnaroundSlightly longerFaster for small runs
Color RangeLimited (spot colors)Full color

Key Takeaways

  • Screen printing wins for London bulk orders with few colors.
  • DTF wins for small runs and full-color designs.
  • Both methods are widely available across London print shops.
  • Turnaround differences are usually a day or two, not weeks.
  • Ask for a side-by-side quote if you're unsure.

DTF, usually, since there's no per-color setup cost.

Screen printing typically wins at that volume.

Yes, e.g. screen printed front with a DTF full-color back.

Yes, DTF works well on cotton and cotton-blend garments.

Both hold up well; care and wash instructions matter more than climate.

Yes, visit our Brick Lane workshop to see and feel both.

DTF, due to no setup cost for a single small run.

Most established shops do, including ours.

Usually within one business day.

DTF handles gradients more easily than screen printing.

Daniel Hayes
Daniel Hayes

Production Manager at TShirtPrintLondon, overseeing every printing method in-house.

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