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When ordering custom T shirts, price is usually one of the first things people consider. However, choosing the cheapest printing method is not always as simple as comparing two prices. Your order quantity, artwork, number of colours, garment choice, and printing requirements can all influence the final cost.

Digital printing and screen printing are two popular options, but each works best for different types of orders. In this blog, you will learn how digital and screen printing in London costs compare, when each option offers better value, and how to choose the right method for your next custom clothing order.

What is the Difference Between Digital and Screen Printing?
To compare costs, it helps to understand how the two printing methods work. Digital printing puts the artwork directly on the garment. It is particularly suitable for detailed designs, photographs, gradients, illustrations and artwork with several colours. For smaller quantities it can be a practical option as there is usually less set up involved.
Screen printing is different. The prepared screens are then used to push ink on to the fabric, usually separate screens for different colours. The preparation can add to the initial cost, but screen printing can be very economical when producing larger quantities of the same design. This is a significant difference because the cheapest option depends on what you are ordering.

When Is It Affordable  to Print Digitally?
Digital printing is a good option for smaller runs. If you only need a few T shirts, it probably doesn't make sense to pay for a huge setup. For example if you are making ten personalised T shirts for a birthday celebration. Each shirt could have a different name, photo, or colourful design. Digital printing allows for the creation of unique designs without the need to set up each variation as a completely new screen printing job.
It’s also useful when your artwork has fine details. The design may be reproduced in a photograph or complex illustration without limiting the design to a limited number of solid colours. Digital printing can therefore provide excellent value for small runs and very detailed artwork.

How Screen Printing Can Save Money on Big Orders
Screen printing can become more economical as you get larger quantities of an order.For example, a sports club may need 100 T shirts with the same logo on them. So instead of making each piece one at a time , screen printing can effectively copy the same prepared artwork across the whole batch .
The initial setup cost can be spread out over many garments, which can lower the effective cost per T shirt.Screen printing is therefore a very attractive option for businesses, schools, sports teams, promotional campaigns, charity events, workwear and large group orders. If you are looking for Screen Printing in London consider the first quote but also how the price changes with order quantity.

What Influences the Cost of Custom T Shirt Printing?

·         Quantity to order
How much clothing you need can have a big impact on the price. The cost structures for small orders and large bulk orders can be quite different.

·         Number of Colours
With screen printing additional colours may mean additional screens and preparation. Therefore a simple logo with one or two colours can be more cost effective than a highly complicated design.

·         Complexity of Artwork
A simple logo of a company is printed differently than a detailed photograph. Your artwork may dictate which method offers the best combination of quality and value.

·         Garment Selection
The type, colour and quality of the T shirt can also affect your final price. Premium garments might cost more upfront but can deliver a better overall result depending on how and where the shirts are worn.

Which Printing Method Is Right For My Order?
No printing method is cheapest for everyone.If you need small quantities, personalised designs, photographic artwork or multiple colours, digital printing might be better
Screen printing is more economical if you need a larger quantity of the same garment and your design has a limited number of colours. Don't just consider the price on one T shirt, think about your total order. You may find it worth paying a slightly higher price per garment if it gets you exactly the look and flexibility you need.

A Simple Example For You To Decide
Consider two consumers. The first customer needs 6 T shirts for a family celebration. Each shirt has a different name and a colourful illustration. The most practical option would probably be digital printing, which allows for easy customisation of each individual garment.
The second customer needs 150 T shirts for a company event. All the pieces have the same two colour logo. Screen printing can be more cost effective as the larger quantity spreads the cost of the set up over the entire order.
The lesson is simple: With digital printing, small and personalised doesn’t always mean expensive, while screen printing can be more and more cost effective with larger and consistent orders.

Make Your Custom T Shirt Order Matter
The least expensive printing method is not always the one advertized at the lowest price. The right one depends on your quantity, artwork, garment requirements, colour choices and use. Whether you want a handful of personalised T shirts or a big batch for your business, team, event, school or organization, comparing the printing process with your specific requirements can help you spend your budget wisely.
If you are looking for reliable Screen Printing in London services then check out the options available at tshirt printing London UK and contact us to discuss your artwork, quantity and requirements. Choosing the right printing method can help you achieve professional looking garments without spending more than you need to.