For any business or organization, image makes the difference.
Your image is the doorwayto your reputation. you want to be considered professional, trustworthy, confident and current. Hive Media uses creativity and innovation efficiently to enhance and communicate your elite status. It is all about your image. Every project of any size will get comprehensive and acclaimed professional attention produced with on-time delivery, commitment and experience. Services include: Graphic design, screen printing, brochure, catalogs and more. Hive Media Hive Media is dedicated to design and illustration with a simple goal; create image-appropriate, result-driven communication materials in a cost-effective manner. Plano, TX

DTF vs. Screen Printing:
Why Screen Printing Stands the Test of Time

When choosing the best method for custom apparel, understanding the differences between DTF (Direct-to-Film) and screen printing is essential. While both methods have their strengths, screen printing stands out for its unmatched durability and long-lasting results. Let's break down the key differences and highlight why screen printing is often the superior choice for lasting quality.

DTF Printing: Pros and Cons

DTF printing is a digital transfer method that prints designs onto a special film, which is then heat-pressed onto garments. It offers vibrant prints and the ability to apply designs on various fabric types. While this flexibility makes DTF appealing for certain projects, it has several drawbacks that are important to consider:

Disadvantages of DTF Printing:

• Plastic-like Texture: DTF prints often have a noticeable “hand” or raised texture, which some people may find undesirable.

• Potential for Cracking or Peeling: Without proper application and care, DTF designs may crack, peel, or fade over time, especially after multiple washes.

• Limited Production Speed: DTF's process can be slower than screen printing, making it less efficient for large orders.

• Environmental Concerns: The heat press process used in DTF contributes to energy consumption and carbon emissions.

• Size Limitations: DTF is restricted by the size of the transfer film and plate, limiting larger design capabilities.

While DTF offers bright colors and versatility on different fabrics, its durability struggles to match that of screen printing.

Screen Printing: The Durable Standard

Screen printing is a traditional method that involves creating a stencil (screen) for each color in a design and applying ink directly onto the fabric. This tried-and-true method excels in durability, vibrancy, and cost-effectiveness for bulk orders.

Advantages of Screen Printing:

• Superior Durability: Screen printing ink bonds directly with the fabric, creating prints that withstand countless washes without cracking, peeling, or fading.

• Cost-Effective for Bulk Orders: The upfront cost of creating screens is offset by the ability to produce large quantities efficiently, making screen printing ideal for large runs.

• Vivid, Opaque Colors: Screen printing delivers rich, vibrant colors that remain bright and consistent over time.

• Versatility in Materials: This method works effectively on a wide variety of fabrics, including dark and heavily textured materials.

• Soft and Comfortable Finish: Unlike DTF, screen printing often achieves a softer “hand,” ensuring garments remain comfortable to wear.

• Specialty Ink Options: From metallic finishes to glow-in-the-dark effects, screen printing allows for creative customization.

Which Method is Right for You?

For small, intricate designs with a quick turnaround, DTF printing may be a suitable option. However, if you're seeking long-lasting, high-quality prints that endure wear and washing, screen printing is the clear winner.

At Hive Media, we specialize in delivering durable, vibrant screen-printed designs that stand the test of time. Whether you're outfitting a business, school, or event, our screen printing expertise ensures your custom apparel maintains its bold look wash after wash.

Choose Hive Media for superior screen printing that combines durability, color brilliance, and professional results.

Hive Media has been providing screen printing & graphic design services for Dallas Plano Allen Frisco Mckinney area since 2006.  With being in the industry for over 20yrs at the time, we were always our being approached with freelance work.  Being dissapointed with the old school and clip art t-shirt designs offered by schools and team athletics, we started Hive Media to bring a designer / fashion option to the area as well as graphic design services at a reasonable price. 
Graphic design experience in both direct and off-set printing.  AD, logo, catalog, brochure, photo editing, digital scrapbooking screen printing design and more. 
Screen Printing with a techinal background in standard & specialty printing. manual & automatic screen printing dallas, tx screen printing allen, tx screen printing frisco, tx screen printing dfw screen printing murphy, tx screen printing mckinney, tx

Hive Media has been providing graphic design & screen printing in Plano Dallas Allen Frisco Mckinney area since 2006.  With being in the industry for over 20yrs at the time, we were always our being approached with freelance work.  Being dissapointed with the old school and clip art t-shirt designs offered by schools and team athletics, spiritwear, we started Hive Media to bring a designer / fashion option to the area as well as graphic design services at a reasonable price. 
Graphic design experience in both direct and off-set printing.  AD, logo, catalog, brochure, photo editing, digital scrapbooking screen printing design and more. 
Screen Printing with a techinal background in standard & specialty printing. manual & automatic.screen printing, screen printing plano, screen printing in plano - dallas, spiritwear, screen printing frisco, screen printing allen, screen printing mckinney, printed shirts, t-shirts printing, silk screen shirt printing, graphic design