Best Printing Method for Small Orders
DTF is generally the best fit for small orders since it has no per-color setup fee and works on nearly any fabric or color.
Indy Custom Apparel connects Indianapolis-area customers with independent custom apparel providers. We don't own or operate a print shop — pricing, production and turnaround are set by the provider handling your order. See how it works →
The short answer.
DTF is generally the best fit for small orders since it has no per-color setup fee and works on nearly any fabric or color.
- • No per-color setup fee, unlike screen printing
- • Works on any fabric type or color, including dark garments
- • Cost-effective even for single-digit quantities
- • DTG is a strong alternative for cotton-only small orders
Why screen printing struggles at small quantities
Screen printing's per-color setup fee doesn't shrink with a smaller order — it just gets divided across fewer pieces, making the per-shirt cost climb fast below 24 pieces.
Tell us the project
Apparel type, quantity and timeline — takes about two minutes.
We review the details
Matched against Indianapolis-area providers with the right equipment.
You get connected
A independent provider reaches out with pricing.
Approve and produce
Proofs, pricing and turnaround are handled directly by that provider.
Explore related services, industries and areas.
Questions about best printing method for small orders.
Yes — once you've got a sense of what you need, submit a quote request and we'll match you with an Indianapolis-area provider suited to your project.
DTF is generally the best fit for small orders since it has no per-color setup fee and works on nearly any fabric or color.
Submit your project details through our quote form and we'll match you with an independent Indianapolis-area provider.
Ready to get a quote based on this guide?
Free to submit. No obligation until you approve a quote from a matched provider.