The Ultimate Guide to Custom Tote Bag Logo Printing

Screen Printing vs. DTG, DTF & Other Printing Methods for Wholesale Orders

Custom-printed tote bags are a reliable branding solution for retailers, corporate buyers, and event organizers. Choosing the correct printing method is critical for managing cost, durability, and visual consistency across bulk production.

This guide compares the most common tote bag logo printing methods—screen printing, DTG, DTF, heat transfer, and embroidery—to help wholesale buyers select the most efficient option.

Why Printing Method Matters for Wholesale Tote Bags

For B2B orders, the printing method directly affects:

• Unit cost at scale
• Print durability and wash resistance
• Brand consistency across large quantities
• Production timelines and reorder reliability

1. Screen Printing (Industry Standard for Wholesale)

Screen printing remains the most trusted method for bulk custom tote bags, especially for cotton and canvas fabrics.

Advantages for Wholesale Buyers

• Superior durability and long print life
• Cost-efficient for medium to large orders
• Consistent results across production runs
• Strong ink coverage on natural and heavy fabrics

Limitations

• Setup costs make small orders less economical
• Not ideal for photo-quality designs

Best Use Cases:
Retail resale, corporate promotions, trade shows, and repeat wholesale programs.

2. DTG (Direct-to-Garment) Printing

DTG printing applies water-based inks directly onto the fabric using digital printers.

Advantages

• Excellent for complex, multi-color artwork
• No screen setup required
• Suitable for short runs

Limitations

• Higher cost per unit at scale
• Lower durability than screen printing
• Best performance on light-colored cotton

Best Use Cases:
Small batch orders, detailed artwork, and short-term campaigns.

3. DTF (Direct-to-Film) Printing

DTF printing involves printing a design onto a transfer film, applying adhesive powder, and heat-pressing the design onto the tote bag.

Advantages

• Works well on a wide range of fabrics
• Handles complex and multi-color designs
• No fabric color limitations

Limitations for Wholesale

• Less breathable print feel
• Durability lower than screen printing on canvas
• Higher unit cost for large quantities

Best Use Cases:
Medium-volume orders, complex logos, mixed fabric projects, and quick turnaround needs.

4. Heat Transfer Printing

Heat transfer printing uses pre-printed designs applied with heat and pressure.

Advantages

• Fast setup for low quantities
• Suitable for detailed graphics

Limitations

• Reduced durability under frequent use
• Risk of cracking or peeling over time
• Not recommended for retail or long-term use

Best Use Cases:
Samples, internal use, and short-term promotional needs.

5. Embroidery (Limited Wholesale Applications)

Embroidery stitches the logo directly into the fabric, creating a premium, textured finish.

Advantages

• High-end appearance
• Long-lasting on heavy canvas

Limitations

• Higher cost per unit
• Limited design size and detail
• Not suitable for lightweight fabrics

Best Use Cases:
Premium totes, small logos, and specialty retail products.

Screen Printing vs. DTG vs. DTF: Wholesale Comparison