DTF Printing in Philadelphia
for Full-Color, Low Minimum Orders
Perfect for detailed designs, smaller runs, and jobs where screen printing isn’t the right fit.
A Flexible Alternative to Screen Printing
Not every job is a good fit for screen printing—and that’s where DTF comes in.
At South Philly Tees, we use DTF (Direct to Film) printing for projects that require full color, smaller quantities, or more flexibility with designs. It also makes printing on tougher or less traditional garments a breeze.
This page breaks down when DTF makes sense and what to expect before placing an order.
What Is DTF Printing?
DTF (Direct to Film) printing is a process where designs are printed onto a special film and then heat-pressed onto a garment.
Unlike screen printing, DTF allows for full-color prints without needing separate screens for each color, making it ideal for detailed artwork and smaller runs.
The result is a sharp, vibrant print that works across a wide range of apparel.
When DTF Is the Best Option
DTF is the right choice when your design, quantity, or garment doesn’t fit the strengths of screen printing.
- You need full-color or highly detailed designs
DTF allows you to print complex artwork without limitations on color count, making it ideal for gradients, shading, and intricate details that wouldn’t translate well with screen printing - Your order is under 24 pieces
Since there are no screen setup costs, DTF is a more efficient and cost-effective option for smaller runs and short orders - Your design includes gradients, shading, or photo elements
Designs with fades, shadows, or photographic elements come out clean and sharp without needing to simplify or reduce colors - You need flexibility across different garments
DTF works well on a wide range of materials, making it easier to print the same design across different shirt styles, blends, or specialty items - You want to avoid multiple setup costs
Unlike screen printing, DTF doesn’t require separate screens for each color, which keeps setup simple and allows for more flexibility in design changes
Not sure if your design is a good fit? We’ll walk you through the best option.
What Affects DTF Pricing?
DTF pricing is more straightforward than screen printing since there are no screen setup costs. Most orders come down to print size and quantity, making it a flexible option for smaller runs and detailed designs.
- Print size
Larger designs use more film and ink, which increases the overall cost. Small chest prints will cost less than full front or oversized prints - Number of prints
While DTF doesn’t rely on bulk pricing the same way screen printing does, larger quantities can still help bring the cost per piece down - Print locations
Front, back, and sleeve prints add to the total, depending on how many areas are printed - Garment choice
The type of shirt or item you choose will impact the total price, just like with any custom apparel order - Artwork quality
High-resolution, print-ready artwork ensures the best results. Low-quality files may require adjustments to get a clean final print
If you’re comparing options, we’ll let you know upfront whether DTF or screen printing makes more sense based on your design and quantity.
Best Uses for DTF
Small Orders & Short Runs
Full-Color & Detailed Designs
Full-Color & Detailed Designs
DTF is ideal when you don’t need large quantities. Without screen setup, you can order smaller runs without the higher upfront costs that come with screen printing.
Full-Color & Detailed Designs
Full-Color & Detailed Designs
Full-Color & Detailed Designs
Designs with gradients, shading, or multiple colors come out clean and sharp. There’s no need to simplify your artwork to make it printable.
Brands & Merch Drops
Full-Color & Detailed Designs
Multiple Garment Types
Perfect for testing new designs, limited releases, or small batches. DTF gives you the flexibility to print what you need without overcommitting to large quantities.
Multiple Garment Types
Multiple Garment Types
Multiple Garment Types
DTF makes it easy to print the same design across different shirts, blends, and styles without needing separate setups for each one.
Hard-to-Print Items
Multiple Garment Types
Hard-to-Print Items
Works well on garments that can be challenging for screen printing, making it a reliable option when flexibility is key.
Turnaround Time
Most DTF orders are completed within 5–7 business days after artwork approval.
Since there’s no screen setup involved, the process is more flexible and often moves faster than traditional screen printing.
If you’re working with a deadline, let us know upfront—we’ll let you know what’s realistic and do our best to accommodate when possible.
Who We Work With
We work with a wide range of customers, but most of our projects fall into a few key groups:
- Trade Businesses
Reliable work shirts built to hold up on the job, with consistent prints across every order. - Bars & Restaurants
Branded apparel, staff shirts, and merch that look good and sell. - Sports Teams & Organizations
Clean, consistent prints for teams, events, and group orders of all sizes. - Events & Fundraisers
Shirts that bring groups together and make your event stand out. - Individuals & Small Orders
Whether it’s a personal project or a small group, we’ll help you find the right approach to get it done.
Whether you need shirts for a small team or a large event, the goal is the same: make the process easy and ensure great results.
RESOURCES & RELATED BLOGS
Custom Apparel Guides
Ready to Print Your Design?
Send us your artwork and we’ll help you decide if DTF is the right option—simple, straightforward, and no guesswork.
Fast turnaround, clear pricing, and guidance every step of the way.