Printed Workwear Logos: Why We Choose DTF Printing Over DTG

Your workwear logo goes through a lot; daily wear, regular washing and tough environments. The problem? Not all print methods are built to handle it. Traditional printing methods can struggle with durability, detail or fade over time. That’s where Direct to Film (DTF) stands out.

At Penguin Uniform, we use DTF for all our printed logos because we know it will deliver consistent, quality results. If you’re choosing how to brand your uniforms, here’s what you need to know about DTF printing for workwear. 

What Is DTF Printing?

DTF (Direct to Film) is a modern print method. Your logo is first printed onto a specialist film and then heat-applied to clothes. Because the design is created separately before being transferred, it allows for sharper detail, colour accuracy and consistent results across different items. It also works on a range of fabrics including cotton, polyester and hi-visibility material.

How Does DTF Printing Work?

The process for DTF is simple:

• Print: Your design is printed onto a film
• Prepare: Adhesive is applied to help it bond
• Press: A heat press is used to transfer the design onto the garment

This gives a durable finish that holds up even when working outdoors.

The Benefits of DTF Printing for Workwear

DTF has quickly become one of the most popular print methods for workwear since it’s built for real-world use.

• Durable: Holds up through frequent washing and daily wear
• Versatile: Works across multiple fabrics and garment types
• Detailed: Ideal for complex, multi-colour logos
• Professional finish: Smooth, clean and consistent

DTF vs DTG: What Are the Alternatives?

There’s no single print method that suits every situation. Depending on your needs, screen printing or DTG may be an option. However these print methods have drawbacks that, in our opinion, make DTF the best choice for workwear.

Screen Printing:

Screen printing is a traditional method that works well for multiple runs of simple designs. It produces strong, bold prints but comes with high setup costs. Each colour requires a separate screen, making detailed or multi-colour logos less practical and more expensive to create. Because we handle a high volume of unique logos, screen printing would mean pricing based on design complexity. We don’t want to penalise our customers for designing a good logo!

For businesses ordering in high volumes with simple branding, screen printing can be effective but lacks the flexibility that many modern workwear requirements demand.

DTG Printing: What Are The Challenges?

DTG (Direct to Garment) prints directly onto fabric, similar to an inkjet printer. While it can produce good results on cotton garments, it’s less suited to the mixed fabrics often used in workwear. Darker garments also require multiple extra steps that make printing with DTG take longer and cause a lot of mess. Since a lot of workwear (including our own) uses black or darker base layers these extra steps make the whole process less cost effective.

For custom printed workwear logos we have found DTF to be the more reliable choice.

Why DTF Is the Best Printing Method for Workwear

Our in-house production team uses DTF to make sure every logo looks its best. This printing method allows us to maintain high-quality across every item and keep turnaround times fast.

For you, that means no compromise, your logo looks exactly how it should, every time. DTF gives you the confidence that your workwear logo will match up perfectly to your design. Your uniform is often a customer’s first impression, so it needs to be right.

If you are interested in embroidery instead of print, we also specialise in creating embroidered logos with our range of 6 and 8 head machines. Embroidered workwear is a popular choice for professional logos and works well for office workers and front of house staff.

How to Care for DTF Printed Workwear

DTF prints are designed to last, but these simple methods will keep them looking their best:

• Wash inside out at low temperatures
• Avoid harsh detergents and fabric softeners
• Do not tumble dry on high heat
• Avoid ironing directly over the print

Following these steps will help extend the life of your branded workwear.

Ready to Add Your Logo?

At Penguin Uniform, we make it easy to create your first set of branded uniform that brings your brand to life, no matter your industry.

Ready to upgrade your workwear? Explore our full range of deals and get started today with our workwear bundles.