DTF vs Screen Printing in 2025 – Which Is Better for Maryland Brands?

Choosing between DTF vs screen printing in 2025 is a major decision for Maryland clothing brands, print shops, and small businesses. Both methods are widely used, but they serve very different needs. As demand for fast turnaround, customization, and short runs continues to grow, many Maryland brands are rethinking which printing method truly fits their business goals.

This guide breaks down DTF printing vs screen printing in a practical, business-focused way—so you can decide which option is better for your Maryland brand in 2025.

What Is DTF Printing?

DTF (Direct to Film) printing involves printing a design onto a special film, applying adhesive powder, curing it, and then heat pressing it onto garments. The result is a durable, full-color transfer that works on a wide range of fabrics.

Modfirst specializes in DTF transfers and gang sheets designed for modern apparel production.

👉 DTF Transfers:
https://www.modfirst.com/products/dtf-transfers

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

What Is Screen Printing?

Screen printing uses stencils (screens) to apply ink layer by layer directly onto garments. Each color requires a separate screen, making setup more complex—especially for multi-color designs or small runs.

While screen printing has been a traditional standard, it’s not always the most efficient choice in 2025.

DTF vs Screen Printing: Key Differences

1. Setup & Startup Costs

DTF Printing

• No screens required

• Minimal setup time

• Ideal for short runs and custom orders

Screen Printing

• Requires screens for each color

• Higher setup costs

• Best suited for large, single-design runs

👉 Winner for small businesses: DTF printing

2. Order Quantity Flexibility

DTF Printing

• No minimums

• Cost-effective for 1 piece or 1,000 pieces

• Perfect for on-demand production

Screen Printing

• Cost-effective only at high volumes

• Not ideal for small or mixed orders

👉 Winner for Maryland brands selling online: DTF printing

3. Design Complexity & Color

DTF Printing

• Unlimited colors

• Photo-realistic detail

• Smooth gradients and fine lines

Screen Printing

• Limited by number of screens

• Complex designs increase cost

• Less flexibility for gradients

👉 Winner for modern branding: DTF printing

4. Fabric Compatibility

DTF Printing

• Works on cotton, polyester, blends, and performance fabrics

• Consistent results across garment types

Screen Printing

• Ink selection varies by fabric

• More testing required

👉 Winner for versatility: DTF printing

5. Speed & Turnaround

DTF Printing

• Fast production

• Easy reorders

• Ideal for quick drops and restocks

Screen Printing

• Slower setup

• Longer lead times for small jobs

👉 Winner for fast-moving brands: DTF printing

Durability Comparison in 2025

In the past, screen printing was considered more durable—but modern DTF transfers have closed that gap.

Modfirst DTF transfers are engineered for:

• Strong adhesion

• Flexible feel

• Wash resistance

• Long-lasting color

For most apparel uses in 2025, DTF durability meets or exceeds brand expectations.

Cost Comparison for Maryland Brands

For most Maryland-based brands, DTF offers lower risk and higher flexibility.

Why More Maryland Brands Are Choosing DTF in 2025

Maryland apparel brands are increasingly choosing DTF because it supports:

• Print-on-demand businesses

• Online stores and dropshipping

• Custom client orders

• Frequent design changes

• Low inventory risk

DTF aligns better with how brands operate today.

DTF Gang Sheets vs Screen Printing for Scaling

One of the biggest advantages of DTF is gang sheet printing. Brands can place multiple designs on one sheet, reducing cost and speeding up production.

👉 DTF Transfers by Size:
https://www.modfirst.com/products/dtf-transfers-transfers-by-size

Gang sheets allow Maryland brands to scale without committing to large screen printing runs.

When Screen Printing Still Makes Sense

Screen printing can still be useful when:

• Printing thousands of identical shirts

• Using simple, single-color designs

• Running large event or uniform orders

However, these situations are becoming less common for modern brands focused on flexibility.

Final Verdict: Which Is Better for Maryland Brands in 2025?

For most businesses, the answer is clear:

✅ DTF Printing Is Better for Maryland Brands in 2025

DTF offers:

• Lower startup costs

• Faster turnaround

• Unlimited design flexibility

• No minimum orders

• Easier scaling with gang sheets

Screen printing still has its place, but DTF printing better matches how brands sell, market, and grow today.

Start Printing with Modfirst

If you’re ready to move forward with DTF printing for your Maryland brand, Modfirst provides professional-quality transfers built for real production needs.

👉 Order DTF Transfers:
https://www.modfirst.com/products/dtf-transfers

👉 Build Custom Gang Sheets Online:
https://www.modfirst.com/products/build-your-own-dtf-custom-ganged-sheets-online