Printing technology continues to evolve rapidly. In recent years, Direct-to-Film (DTF) and Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing have become more popular worldwide. Many businesses in Zimbabwe now ask: Is screen printing still relevant? In this blog post, we explore this question in depth. We consider the strengths of each method. We also explain how these technologies fit Zimbabwe’s unique market.
Firstly, you will learn the basics of each printing technology. Next, we compare them for quality, cost, speed, and use. Lastly, we consider the specific reality in Zimbabwe. By the end, you will have a balanced view to make smart business decisions.
What Is Screen Printing?
Screen printing is a traditional method of printing designs onto textiles. It uses stencils and mesh screens. Ink is pressed through screens onto fabric. This method has been used for decades in Zimbabwe and globally. Many local t-shirt businesses still use it.
Importantly, screen printing is known for durability. It produces bold, vibrant colours. Many Zimbabwean schools, clubs, and teams rely on screen printed uniforms. That is because screen printing can withstand repeated wash cycles.
Furthermore, screen printing works very well for bulk orders. When businesses need hundreds or thousands of shirts, this method remains cost-effective.
What Is DTF Printing?
Direct-to-Film (DTF) is a newer technology. In DTF, ink is printed on special film. Then it is transferred to fabric using heat. This method is fast and flexible. It can be used on many textile types, including cotton and polyester.
DTF has grown in popularity because it offers high-resolution prints. It also requires less pre-treatment than DTG. As a result, it is easier for small print shops with limited resources.
In Zimbabwe, many print shops have begun offering DTF services. This is because the startup cost can be lower than DTG. Moreover, DTF prints are bright and detailed.
What Is DTG Printing?
Direct-to-Garment (DTG) uses a printer similar to an inkjet. It prints ink directly onto fabric, like paper. The result is detailed, full-colour prints.
DTG is ideal for complex designs with many colours. It is also great for one-off orders. In Zimbabwe, some designers prefer DTG for fashion pieces. That is because it allows for large colour gradients.
However, DTG often requires fabric pre-treatment. As a result, it can be more expensive and slow for large runs.
How Do These Technologies Compare?
To understand relevance, we must compare screen printing with DTF and DTG. Below, we break the comparison into key factors.
Quality and Durability
- Screen printing produces long-lasting prints that resist fading and cracking. This makes it ideal for uniforms and workwear.
- DTF also produces durable results, though slightly less resilient than screen printing under heavy wear.
- DTG gives excellent colour detail but may wear faster with repeated washing.
Therefore, if durability is your main concern, screen printing still holds strong relevance.
Speed and Flexibility
- DTF and DTG excel in fast turnaround times, especially for small orders.
- Screen printing is slower to set up but faster on large runs.
Thus, for custom one-off prints, DTF or DTG may be more efficient. For bulk orders, screen printing remains competitive.
Cost Considerations in Zimbabwe
Cost matters, especially in the Zimbabwean market. Many small businesses and entrepreneurs need printing solutions that make financial sense.
- Screen printing spreads setup cost over many items, lowering cost per piece for large orders.
- DTF can be cheaper for short runs. It requires fewer upfront materials.
- DTG machines can be expensive to buy and maintain, especially with costly ink and pre-treatment.
As a result, many Zimbabwean startups find DTF more affordable than DTG. At the same time, screen printing remains the most cost-effective for large orders.
Design and Customisation
When it comes to creative freedom:
- DTG wins for highly detailed, photographic designs.
- DTF also handles multicolour prints well.
- Screen printing performs best with simple, solid-colour designs.
Companies that sell custom fashion pieces may prefer DTG or DTF. Still, trends with sports teams and corporate branding often use screen printing because of its bold results.
Screen Printing in the Zimbabwean Market
In Zimbabwe, screen printing continues to be relevant for several reasons:
Schools and Sports Uniforms
Schools and sporting clubs often require large runs of shirts with bold logos. Screen printing is perfect for this. It offers durability and cost savings.
Corporate Branding
Many businesses in Harare and Bulawayo use screen printing for staff uniforms. They choose it for reliability and affordability.
Local Print Shops
Many local printers in Zimbabwe already own screen printing setups. These machines are paid off and still performing well. Therefore, many printers still offer screen printing alongside DTF and DTG.
Transition to New Tech
However, new tech is growing too. More shops now offer DTF services. That is because DTF machines cost less to buy than DTG. As a result, many Zimbabwean entrepreneurs can start printing with lower investment.
So, Is Screen Printing Still Relevant?
Yes — absolutely. Despite the rise of DTF and DTG, screen printing remains relevant in Zimbabwe for these reasons:
- High durability for uniforms and bulk garments
- Lower long-term cost for large orders
- Established market demand
- Better performance for solid-colour designs
- Trusted by schools, clubs, and businesses
That said, DTF and DTG have also become important parts of the market. They serve different needs and offer flexibility that screen printing lacks.
Balanced View: When to Use Each
| Printing Type | Best For | Cost | Speed | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Printing | Bulk orders, uniforms | Low per piece | Medium | Very High |
| DTF | Small to medium runs | Low to Medium | Fast | High |
| DTG | One-offs, detailed designs | Medium to High | Fast | Medium |
Use screen printing for big batches. Use DTF for custom small orders. Choose DTG when detail matters most.
Final Thoughts
As printing technology evolves, many Zimbabwean businesses must adapt. Screen printing will not disappear. Instead, it will coexist with DTF and DTG. Each method has strengths. Each solves a different need.
Importantly, successful print businesses will offer multiple solutions. Savvy entrepreneurs will choose the best method based on design, quantity, timeline, and budget.
Whether you are a school looking for uniforms, a startup selling custom tees, or a brand chasing design perfection — printing technology offers options. In Zimbabwe, screen printing still has a place. It remains relevant because it delivers value where it matters most.
Comments (4)
I feel as technology moves we shd also move with it .me l use dtf and its very cost effective because u dont use much per print compared to what u yield after yo work also its time saving u don’t disappoint clients with big volumes and the quality of what’s expected is guaranteed
Thank you for your comment. You’re right — DTF can be very cost-effective and time-saving, especially for high-volume production. At the same time, it’s always important for businesses to evaluate quality, longevity, and brand positioning when choosing a printing method. I appreciate you sharing your experience.
In your experience, have you found DTF to hold up well over time with repeated washes, especially for premium brands?
I prefer DTF, screen printing is no longer relevent, DTG when talking about moving volumes it is very fast
Thanks Beatrice for sharing your perspective. it’s always interesting to hear how others are approaching production.
DTF has definitely gained traction, especially for flexibility and lower setup barriers. I’m curious, in your experience, what types of volumes and garment types are you seeing it perform best with?
We’ve found that each method (DTF, DTG, and screen printing) tends to shine in different scenarios depending on order size, fabric, artwork complexity, and margin goals. When you mention moving volume quickly with DTG, are you referring to short-run bulk, on-demand fulfillment, or large uniform orders?
Would love to hear more about what’s working best for you and why.