Home → DTF Resources →Why Shops are moving from Screen Printing to DTF
The Industry Is Changing. Don't Get Left Behind.
Tanya & Brian
Owners • Real People • Real Support
Screen printing still has a place—but more shops are adding DTF because customers want faster turnaround, smaller runs, full color graphics, and greater flexibility.
Kolormatrix helps shops adapt and grow.
Meet Tanya & Brian
We've spent years serving apparel decorators and production businesses.
We've also watched the industry change.
Customers increasingly ask for:
- smaller quantities
- full-color graphics
- rush turnaround
- personalization
- faster service
- lower setup costs
Many print shops aren't replacing screen printing.
They're expanding with DTF.
We built Kolormatrix to help businesses adapt without guesswork.
✔ Real support
✔ Equipment, supplies & training
✔ Atlanta showroom
✔ Hands-on experience
Why Shops Are Making The Shift
This isn't about abandoning screen printing.
It's about saying yes to more business.
Smaller runs make more sense
Not every order is 500 shirts.
DTF works extremely well for:
- 12 shirts
- team apparel
- Etsy orders
- one-offs
- short runs
- test launches
No screens. No reclaim. No setup.
Reduce:
- setup time
- labor
- screen costs
- reclaim workflow
- production bottlenecks
Full color becomes easy
Gradients.
Photos.
Detailed artwork.
Unlimited colors.
No complicated separations.
Personalization becomes profitable
Names.
Numbers.
Custom variations.
On-demand products.
Faster turnaround wins business
Rush customers exist.
DTF helps shops respond quickly.
Traditional Screen Printing vs DTF
| Screen Printing | DTF |
|---|---|
| Screen setup required | Upload and print |
| Separations required | Full color graphics |
| Better on large repeat runs | Great for short runs |
| More setup labor | Faster workflow |
| Difficult personalization | Easy customization |
Intro:
Shops across the country choose Kolormatrix because quality, speed and production matter.
Kolormatrix DTF includes:
✔ Hi-Fidelity 9 Color output
✔ Instant peel technology
✔ Low temp 265–285°F application
✔ Super soft feel
✔ Same or next day service
✔ Rush 5-hour service
✔ Hot Rush 1–2 hour service
✔ Browser gang sheet builder
✔ Industry training and support
Built For Real Production
Production businesses need:
✔ Consistency
✔ Speed
✔ Reliability
✔ Fine detail
✔ Soft feel
✔ Repeatable results
DTF isn't a shortcut.
It's a production solution.
One Day DTF Like A Pro
Learn directly from people using DTF every day.
Topics include:
Workflow
Artwork preparation
Powder and curing
Pressing techniques
Troubleshooting
Production efficiency
Perfect for:
- screen printers
- embroidery businesses
- startups
- apparel decorators
- growing shops
Is DTF Replacing Screen Printing?
Short answer:
No.
For large, repeat production runs, screen printing still makes sense.
But DTF helps shops:
- increase flexibility
- capture more jobs
- handle personalization
- improve speed
- grow profits
The strongest businesses often use both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DTF replacing screen printing?
No. Many shops use both together.
Is DTF good for short runs?
Yes. That's one of its biggest strengths.
Can DTF print full color artwork?
Absolutely.
Does DTF work on multiple fabrics?
Yes. Cotton, polyester, blends and more.
Can I learn DTF before investing?
Yes. Visit our showroom or take our One Day DTF Like A Pro class.
Popular Resources
- Same Day DTF Transfers
- Train With Brian Toney
- Atlanta Training Center
- DTF Gang Sheet Builder
- Our Story
- Start a DTF Business
- Pro DTF Printers backed by US tech support
- Women in Print
- DTF Equipment Comparison
- Free DTF One-day class with Printer Purchase
Build Your Business For The Future
Tanya & Brian
Owners
Real People. Real Support. Real Results.