Screen printing, a traditional, durable method, can be labor-intensive and costly for multi-color designs. Direct-to-Film (DTF), a digital technique, provides cost-effective, high-quality, full-color prints.

With proper care, screen prints resist fading and survive many washes, often longer than the garment itself. DTF prints, while also durable, can fade faster under harsh washing or high temperatures.

Two types of inks are used in screen printing. Plastisol inks offer excellent wash durability when correctly cured. Water-based inks also offer good wash fastness but are generally less durable and can provide a vintage look after washing.

In essence, both screen printing and DTF printing can produce durable prints when cared for properly. However, the plastisol inks used in screen printing tend to be more long-lasting compared to the water-based inks employed in DTF printing. Adhering to the recommended care instructions can significantly prolong the lifespan of printed garments, regardless of the printing method used.