Bag Printing Methods Compared: Silk-Screen vs Heat Transfer
Silk-screen suits 1–2 spot colours and is included in our unit price; heat transfer or full-colour digital handles artwork at +$0.18–0.29 per piece; embroidery is quoted per project. Which one you choose also sets your minimum order.
There are three common ways to put your logo on a fabric bag. Each has different strengths. Here they are compared.
Silk-screen printing
The most economical and widely used method. Ink is pushed through a mesh stencil onto the fabric, colour by colour.
- Best for: simple one or two-colour logos and text
- Cost: lowest — included in our standard price
- Look: crisp, opaque, durable
- Also nice on: non-woven, cotton and TC fabrics
Heat transfer / full-colour printing
A printed design is transferred onto the fabric with heat and pressure, allowing unlimited colours and gradients.
- Best for: photographic images, gradients, complex full-colour designs
- Cost: higher (approx. +$0.18-0.29 per piece)
- Look: rich detail and colour depth
- Nice on: smooth fabrics like cotton and TC
Embroidery
A stitched logo — the most premium option, especially for cotton and canvas bags.
- Best for: small, high-end logo marks on premium bags
- Cost: highest (quoted per project)
- Look: tactile, luxurious, long-lasting
How to choose
| Your design | Recommended |
|---|---|
| 1-2 colour simple logo | Silk-screen (included) |
| Full-colour / gradient / photo | Heat transfer |
| Premium logo on canvas | Embroidery |
Quick tip
If you're not sure your artwork will print well, send it to us — we'll check the file and recommend the best method for your budget. See custom orders or how to choose custom bags.
Bags you can order from this guide
Factory-direct pricing, 1–2 colour print included, MOQ 500 pcs.