Yes...those are currently your options... screened inks or apparel vinyls. Unless you are going to do at least dozen(s) of the same phrase at a time, the best way for you to go would be to buy a cutter. The great thing I've found about the gold and silver metallics, is that you can put them on ANY color tee with fabulous results.
I had an area student/customer create a drawing of our 'famous' town hall building. When I had my supplier make the screened transfers for me, I chose to go with the gold metallic, CBCP (Crystal Back Cold Peel). This image looks fabulous on everything from black to white. It even looks great on yellow or gold shirts. Furthermore...although it is meant to peel cold for a bright glossy finish, I accidentally peeled it hot one time. I though "UhOh-now I'm in trouble!--I ruined this shirt!" BUT, quite the contrary, peeling it hot did indeed split the transfer-like a hot-split, but it looked great on the shirt. It was not glossy, it was more subtle, and looks more antique. It's been one of the most popular designs I've ever done.
I will use a metallic every chance I get!