When you are ordering a small run of printed garments, the right printing method can make a big difference to cost and quality. The key factors are setup cost, number of colours, level of detail and fabric type.
Key takeaways
- For small runs, setup cost per design matters most because it is shared across fewer garments.
- DTG and DTF suit full-colour designs in short runs; screen printing suits bold designs with few colours.
- Match the method to fabric: DTG for cotton, sublimation for polyester, DTF for many fabric types.
Why setup matters for small runs
Some methods have setup work that is the same whether you print 50 or 5,000 pieces. In small runs, that setup is shared across fewer garments, so it has a bigger effect on the price per piece. Digital methods with little setup are often more efficient for short runs and complex artwork.
Methods compared for small orders
| Method | Setup | Best for | Fabric |
|---|---|---|---|
| DTG | Minimal | Full-colour, detailed designs | Cotton-rich |
| DTF | Low | Detailed logos, many fabric types | Cotton, polyester, blends |
| Screen printing | Per colour | Bold designs with few colours | Most fabrics |
| Sublimation | Low | All-over prints | Light polyester |
How to choose for your order
- Count your colours. One or two flat colours can suit screen printing; full colour suits DTG or DTF.
- Check the fabric. Cotton: DTG works well. Polyester and blends: DTF or sublimation.
- Consider the look. Screen printing gives bold, opaque ink; DTG has a softer, integrated feel.
- Think about reorders. If a design will be reordered in larger runs, screen printing may become better value later.
Ways to lower cost on small printed runs
- Reduce colour count for screen-printed designs.
- Limit print locations to the ones that matter most.
- Use the same artwork across several garment colours.
- Keep artwork print-ready (see our artwork guide).
Printing as part of a full product
Printing works best when the garment, labels and packaging are planned together. We print on garments we produce, so fabric choice, print method and finishing are decided by one team. Compare all methods on our printing methods page, see where to place prints, and learn how to make prints last.
More in our Printing guides
Frequently asked questions
What is the best printing method for small orders?
Digital methods like DTG and DTF have little setup, so they are often the most flexible for small runs and multi-colour designs. Screen printing becomes better value as quantities rise and colour counts stay low.
Is screen printing worth it for 50 pieces?
It can be for simple designs with one or two colours. For full-colour artwork in small quantities, DTG or DTF is usually more economical.
Can I mix printing methods in one order?
Yes. For example, a screen-printed front graphic with a DTF neck print, or DTG on cotton tees and sublimation on polyester jerseys.
What is the minimum order for printed garments at MAKEWELL APPAREL?
50 pieces per design for most products.
Printing a small run?
Send your artwork, garment and quantities. We will recommend the best method and send an itemized quote within 24 hours, from 50 pieces per design.
Get a Printing Quote