What’s the Best Method for Printing T-Shirts in Small Quantities in the UK?
Small Runs, Big Impact – Finding the Right Print Method
Ordering just a few custom t-shirts? You’re not alone. From start-up brands to school clubs, small quantity printing is a growing trend. But not all methods are cost-effective or suitable for low volumes.
At Scotshirts, we offer several professional techniques to suit small runs – whether you need 20 t-shirts for a promo or 50 for a staff event.
Best T-Shirt Printing Methods for Small Orders
Choosing the right method depends on your artwork, budget, garment type and how quickly you need them.
Direct to Garment (DTG)
- Ideal for: detailed or photographic designs on cotton shirts
- Minimum order: some printers can start from as low as 1
- Why: full-colour printing, no setup costs, great for short runs
Direct to Film (DTF)
- Ideal for: logos, small text, vibrant prints on any fabric
- Minimum order: ~20 units
- Why: versatile and fast, works well for mixed garments
Screen Printing (not ideal for small orders)
- Ideal for: bulk orders (100+)
- Why: requires setup time and cost – better for large runs
Tips for Saving on Small Run Orders
- Keep designs simple – Fewer colours = lower cost
- Choose standard garments – Avoid premium blends for short-term use
- Combine with other items – Include hoodies or caps in your run
For mixed small items, explore Branded Merchandise options too.
Why Use Scotshirts for Short Runs?
- Low minimums on DTG and DTF – we print from as few as 20
- In-house printing = faster lead times
- Artwork help and real-person support
- UK-based, with nationwide delivery
Whether you’re ordering 20 t-shirts for a team event or testing a new product design, Scotshirts makes small quantity t-shirt printing simple and stress-free. With low minimums, fast turnaround times and expert support, we’ll help you choose the right print method for your needs – so your small run makes a big impact.
