Papinka Engraving, Screen Printing, or Full Print? How to Choose
The difference between engraving, single-color screen printing, full-color DTF, and full print, and when to use each. Plus how to prepare your design file.
Before ordering custom souvenirs, there is one important question: which technique will put your logo or design on the product? The answer depends on the product material and your design.
Summary
| Technique | Best for | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Engraving | Metal tumblers and mugs | Permanently etched logo, single tone |
| Single-color screen printing | Tote bags and fabric bags | One solid color, clean for simple logos |
| Full-color DTF | Tote bags and fabric bags | Many colors, gradients, and detail |
| Full print | Mugs | Design covers the whole surface |
Engraving
Engraving etches the product surface so the logo becomes part of the material itself. It does not peel off and looks elegant.
Choose engraving if: the product is a metal tumbler or mug, and you want a premium feel for clients or formal gifts.
Keep in mind: engraving produces a single tone. Logos with gradients or many colors are converted to one color. Very fine details may not read well.
At Papinka Galeria, Tumbler 001, Tumbler 002, and Tumbler 003 include engraving in the price.
Single-color screen printing
Ink is printed onto fabric in one color. Best for simple logos with bold shapes.
Choose single-color printing if: your design is simple, such as a one-color logo or an event name.
Full-color DTF
DTF (direct to film) prints a full-color design onto film, which is then transferred to fabric. Gradients, photos, and detailed illustrations all print well.
Choose DTF if: your design is colorful, uses gradients, or is an illustration.
Single-color printing and full-color DTF are available for bottle/tumbler bags and book/document bags.
Full print
The design is printed across the entire mug surface, not just a small area. Great for illustrations, patterns, or photo collages.
Choose full print if: you want a truly personal mug covered in design, like the Full Print Enamel Mug with a knitted handle (Rp100,000).
How to prepare your design file
- Use a vector file (AI, SVG, PDF) if you have one. It can be enlarged without losing quality.
- If you do not have a vector, send a high-resolution PNG with a transparent background.
- For engraving, prepare a single-color version of your logo.
- Avoid very thin lines and very small text.
- Ask for a mockup before production so the logo position and size are exactly what you want.
Still unsure which technique fits? Send us your logo or design on WhatsApp, and we will help you choose the technique and product.
