DTG works on natural fabrics like 100% cotton or high cotton blends. DTG looks better for photorealistic images, vintage or washed looks, and fashion-forward apparel.
DTF works across a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, fleece, and blends. DTF looks better for logos and branding, bright, saturated colors, designs that need to pop
What is DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printing?
DTG is a printing method where ink is printed directly onto the fabric using specialized inkjet printers. The ink absorbs into the fibers, creating a soft, breathable finish.
How DTG (Direct-to-Garment) Printing Works
1. Artwork Preparation: The design is created or uploaded as a high-resolution digital file (PNG is most common). Transparency is preserved so ink is applied only where needed. Colors are processed using CMYK + white ink channels.
2. Garment Selection: DTG works best on 100% cotton or high-cotton blends. The shirt must be clean, flat, and wrinkle-free. Fabric quality directly affects print sharpness and durability.
3. Pretreatment (Critical Step): A special pretreatment solution is applied to the print area. This solution Helps white ink bond properly, prevents ink bleeding and improves color vibrancy. Pretreatment is essential for dark garments and optional (but recommended) for light colors.
4. Drying the Pretreatment: The garment is briefly heat-pressed or run through a dryer. This dries the pretreatment and prepares the fibers to accept ink evenly.
5. Printing the Design: The garment is placed onto the DTG printer platen. The printer sprays white ink first (as an underbase, if needed) and then color ink on top. The ink is applied directly into the fabric fibers, not on top like vinyl or transfers.
6. Curing the Ink: After printing, the garment is cured using heat or a dryer. Heat sets the ink permanently into the fibers. Proper curing ensures wash durability, color stability, no cracking or peeling.
7. Quality Inspection: Print is checked for color accuracy, alignment, ink consistency. The garment is cooled, folded, and packaged.
What is DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing?
DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing is a two-stage digital transfer process. DTF printing involves printing artwork onto a special transfer film, applying adhesive powder, and then heat-pressing the design onto the garment.
How DTF (Direct-to-Film) Printing Works
1. Artwork Preparation: The design is prepared as a high-resolution digital file (usually PNG). Colors are separated into CMYK + white ink layers. The artwork is mirrored, since it will be transferred from film to fabric.
2. Printing on Transfer Film: A specialized DTF printer prints the design onto a PET transfer film. The ink sits on top of the film, not absorbed.
3. Applying Adhesive Powder: While the ink is still wet, a thermoplastic adhesive powder is evenly applied over the print. Excess powder is shaken off. The powder ensures the design bonds permanently to the garment.
4. Curing the Transfer: The powdered film is cured using heat. This melts the adhesive just enough to activate it. Once cured, the transfer can be applied immediately or stored for later use.
5. Heat Pressing onto the Garment: The cured transfer is placed ink-side down on the garment. A heat press is applied, and the adhesive melts and bonds the ink layer to the fabric.
6. Peeling the Film: The film is peeled after cooling. The ink and adhesive remain on the garment.
7. Quality Inspection: Print is checked for color accuracy, alignment, ink consistency. The garment is cooled, folded, and packaged.
Print quality and durability
DTG feels Softest. Ink becomes part of the fabric. DTF is Slightly thicker. You can feel the print, especially on large designs.
DTG durability: Excellent when cared for properly. Best with cold wash and air dry.
DTF durability: More resistant to cracking and fading. Better for workwear and frequent washing
DTG does not peel, but it can fade over time if washed incorrectly. Because the ink absorbs into the fabric, cracking is rare.
DTF can crack only if applied improperly or stretched beyond limits—but high-quality DTF holds up very well.
Which works better on dark shirts?
DTF is generally better for dark garments. DTF produces strong whites and vibrant colors consistently on dark fabrics.
DTG requires a white underbase and proper pretreatment.
Print Complexity
How DTG Handles Complex Designs
Strengths
DTG prints ink directly into the fabric fibers, which allows for smooth color blending and natural transitions. Excellent for photorealistic images. Handles gradients, shadows, and fine tonal changes very well. Ideal for high-detail artwork with subtle color shifts. Produces a soft, fabric-integrated look.
Limitations
Very thin lines can soften on textured fabrics. Bright colors may appear slightly muted, especially on dark garments. Requires precise pretreatment for complex designs on dark shirts.
How DTF Handles Complex Designs
Strengths
DTF prints onto a film surface, keeping ink on top of the material before transferring it to the garment. Excellent for sharp edges and fine line clarity. Maintains high color saturation. Consistent results across different fabric types. Handles small text and logos extremely well
Limitations
Very smooth gradients can appear slightly flatter. Large, highly detailed designs may feel heavier on the garment. Ultra-fine tonal transitions are less natural than DTG.
Watch this video to know more about DTG and DTF.