Screen Printing vs. Heat Transfer: What’s the Difference?

Not all custom printing methods are created equal. If you’re new to ordering custom apparel or just curious about the differences between screen printing and heat transfer, this guide will break it down clearly.

Both methods involve putting a design on a garment, but the way they work — and how the final product turns out — can be very different depending on your needs.

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What Is Screen Printing?

Screen printing is one of the most reliable and time-tested methods for decorating apparel. It uses a mesh screen to push ink directly into the fabric, one color at a time. This process creates long-lasting prints with a professional finish.

Why people choose screen printing:

• Durability – Prints hold up through countless washes
• Bold colors – Perfect for solid designs, logos, and branding
• Great for larger orders – Once screens are created, the printing process is fast and efficient

When it’s the right choice:

• You’re ordering 24 or more pieces
• You want a high-quality, retail-level result
• Your design features bold shapes or strong colors
• You need something that will last and still look great over time

At Beyond Belief Studio, this is our specialty. We handle all screen printing in-house, ensuring consistency, attention to detail, and great results with every job.

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What Is Heat Transfer?

Heat transfer printing involves printing your design onto a special film or transfer paper, then pressing it onto the garment using heat and pressure. It’s commonly used for short runs, one-offs, or full-color designs that would be difficult or expensive to screen print.

Benefits of heat transfer:

• Low minimums – Ideal for small batches
• Full-color capability – Great for complex artwork, photos, or gradients
• Faster setup – No screens or color separations needed

When it might be the better fit:

• You only need a few shirts
• You want a detailed or photo-style image
• You don’t mind a slightly different feel on the shirt or a shorter garment lifespan

We do offer heat transfers in specific situations. If screen printing isn’t the most practical option based on quantity or artwork complexity, we’ll recommend heat transfers as an alternative. Our goal is to help you get the best result based on what you need.

Keep in mind that heat transfers may not last as long, and the print can sometimes feel heavier or more plastic-like on the shirt compared to screen printing. They have their place, but it’s important to understand the difference in feel and durability.

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Which One Should You Choose?

It depends on what matters most for your order.

If you’re ordering in bulk and want a high-end, lasting finish, screen printing is your best option. It provides durability, great color, and that soft, embedded feel people expect from premium merch.

If you’re working with a low quantity or have a very detailed full-color image, heat transfer might be a better fit. It allows for quicker turnaround and less setup time. While it may not hold up the same way long term, it can still look great when done right.

We aren’t against heat transfers. We just know that screen printing is what we do best, and it’s usually the best solution when you care about long-lasting quality and presentation.

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Quick Recap

• Screen printing is great for bold designs, larger quantities, and long-lasting prints
• Heat transfers work better for small orders and complex artwork
• Screen printing feels soft and blends into the fabric
• Heat transfers sit on top of the shirt and may wear faster
• We offer both, but screen printing is our go-to method for most jobs

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Still Not Sure What’s Best for Your Order?

Let’s talk through your project and figure it out together. We’ll guide you based on your artwork, quantity, and how the shirts will be used.

Let’s make something you’ll be proud to wear.