Comparing Setup Times: DTF Printing vs. Screen Printing

When it comes to custom apparel printing, speed matters. Whether you’re a small business, a pop-up vendor, or a print shop handling bulk orders, how quickly you can get a design from concept to final print can make or break your workflow. At Modfirst Apparel, we specialize in DTF (Direct to Film) transfers, and we’ve seen firsthand how dramatically they can reduce setup times compared to traditional screen printing.

In this comparison, we break down the setup time differences between DTF and screen printing and explain why DTF is the clear winner when it comes to speed, flexibility, and ease of use — especially for fast-moving businesses.

—

⏱️ What Is Setup Time in Apparel Printing?

Setup time refers to the preparation required before the actual printing begins. This includes creating screens or print files, prepping equipment, and aligning designs. It’s a critical factor that affects delivery deadlines, labor costs, and production efficiency.

—

🖨️ Screen Printing Setup: What It Involves

Traditional screen printing is a time-tested method, but it’s also labor-intensive. Here’s what’s required to get started:

✔️ Create individual screens for each color
✔️ Align screens with exact registration
✔️ Mix inks and load them onto screens
✔️ Set up test prints to ensure alignment
✔️ Clean up and reclaim screens after printing

Depending on the number of colors and garments, setup time for a single screen-printed job can range from 1 to 4 hours — not ideal for rush orders or low-quantity runs.

—

⚡ DTF Printing Setup: A Game Changer

DTF printing eliminates most of the preparation required for traditional screen printing. Here’s how:

✔️ Upload your digital artwork
✔️ Print your design directly onto film
✔️ Apply powder and cure
✔️ Heat press onto the garment when ready

At Modfirst Apparel, we handle the printing process for you — all you have to do is upload your design or use our online gang sheet builder. No screens, no inks, no manual labor. Most DTF orders are ready to ship in 1–2 business days.

—

📊 DTF vs. Screen Printing: Setup Time Comparison

—

💡 Why DTF Saves You Time (and Money)

For businesses that need flexibility, DTF transfers drastically reduce overhead and turnaround:

• Accept last-minute orders without delay

• Launch limited-time merch with no setup cost

• Handle multiple small orders in one batch

• Reduce labor and equipment expenses

• Eliminate downtime between print jobs

With our gang sheet builder, you can fit multiple logos, phrases, or designs into one print run — perfect for fulfilling varied orders in one go.

—

🛒 Try Our DTF Services:

🔗 Build Your Own Gang Sheet
https://www.modfirst.com/products/build-your-own-dtf-custom-ganged-sheets-online

🔗 Upload Ready-Made Transfers
https://www.modfirst.com/products/upload-your-own-dtf-custom-ganged-sheets

🔗 Rush Orders Available
https://www.modfirst.com/products/rush-order-service-get-it-fast

—

👕 Who Benefits from Faster Setup?

• Print shops looking to expand into short runs

• Clothing brands needing quick drops

• Event organizers printing same-week shirts

• Merch sellers working with tight deadlines

• New apparel entrepreneurs wanting ease

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned printer, DTF gives you more time to sell and less time to set up.

—

Conclusion:
When comparing setup times, DTF printing comes out miles ahead of traditional screen printing. It’s faster, cleaner, and far more efficient — especially for today’s fast-paced, on-demand apparel world. At Modfirst Apparel, we help brands, creators, and printers take advantage of this powerful technology to save time and deliver stunning results.