Garment printing has been doing the rounds quite a lot. Technology has revolutionized the way printing and fabrics go together. Out of the many shirt printing methods, two have emerged as powerful contenders- Direct-to-Film (DTF) and Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing.
As businesses and individuals navigate the world of custom apparel, the decision between these two techniques can be perplexing. It’s not just a matter of personal preference; varied factors determine the best of the two.
In this blog, we dive into the nuances of DTF vs DTG printing. We shed light on their strengths, weaknesses, and applications. Understanding the distinctions between DTF and DTG is the first step towards making an educated decision for your distinctive requirements.
So, let’s make you aware of which printing method reigns supreme in different scenarios.
DTF vs DTG – Understanding The Methods
DTF and DTG are famed for their awe-inspiring finish. But there has been a long DTG vs DTF battle too. These techniques are like artists with different brushes- each designed for a specific canvas. Both have unique qualities, processes, drawbacks, and definitions.
Understanding these printing techniques opens a door to the diverse ways we bring images to life on different materials. Let’s know the basics of both printing techniques to make it easy for you-
What is DTG Printing?
Direct-To-Garment, as the name suggests, involves printing designs directly onto the clothing piece using a DTG inkjet printing device.
This technique creates vibrant, enduring prints with rich colors, making them perfect for intricate designs and smaller batches.
Nevertheless, to achieve the best results, DTG printing needs fabric pre-treatment, a step that demands time and extra expenses.
How Does DTG Printing Work?
DTG (direct-to-garment) is a preferred way to print custom designs directly on fabric. Here’s the step-by-step magic-
- Prepping the fabric– Before the artistry begins, the fabric is pre-treated with a special solution. Think of it as giving the canvas a primer for the colors to pop.
- Digital Art Unleashed– Using a sophisticated printer, we directly spray the digital design onto the fabric. It’s like hi-tech spray paint for clothes!
- Heat-Set for Perfection– The freshly printed fabric goes through a heat press to make the design stick and stay vibrant. It’s similar to setting the paint on the canvas.
Advantages & Disadvantages of DTG Printing
Not everything that looks good has everything good, and as with most printing techniques, DTG also has some pros and cons. The same goes for DTG printing. Here are a few to mention-
Advantages of DTG Printing
- It provides a quick turnaround time and has excellent quality outcomes. The prints are accurate, detailed, and precise.
- Additionally, there are almost no setup costs, making it an excellent option for low-volume runs, particularly those up to 100 units. It is a huge advantage as there is no need for minimum orders set for clients.
- DTG turns out to be an eco-friendly approach compared to other techniques.
- This method is well-suited for designs requiring a multitude of colors. It excels in reproducing full-color photographs.
- Other printing processes use vinyl cutouts, stencils, or hand-drawn sketches, but not with DTG printing.
DTG printing does not necessitate artwork to be layer/color separated or in vector format, simplifying the design process. The simplification matters in the process if you want it to have big orders.
Disadvantages of DTG Printing
- We apply ‘pre-treatment’ or ‘under base layer’ to dark and colored garments to create a base layer for the design to sit on top. The process involves heat pressing to flatten fibers and curing them in a small tunnel heater after printing. Unfortunately, the pre-treatment can sometimes react with the garment, resulting in noticeable staining. It only gets discovered after the application
- Prints on dark and colored garments may appear less vibrant or grainy. This impacts the overall visual quality. Matching to exact Pantone Color Codes is not feasible with DTG printing, potentially leading to slight color variations. It turns down certain expectations.
- We cannot print using polyester garments or sports shirts using this process. It is a limitation. The applicability to materials with at least 80% cotton content is what’s needed.
- DTG method is great for printing small quantities, but not large ones. It would need lots of labor, and DTG shirts would take time to print. It increases costs.
When to choose direct-to-garment printing (DTG)?
Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing shines when you’re dealing with cotton garments or other natural materials. It offers versatility, allowing you to print on various items like apparel and accessories, expanding your creative options.
People can opt for DTG when their designs are straightforward, such as logos, text, or graphic art. You will have to discuss in detail what you want and then get it printed.
Related: the ultimate guide to logo placement on shirt.
While it supports colorful images, the clarity may not match that of DTF printing. DTG prints are durable and long-lasting, making them ideal for large-size designs.
Given its global popularity, DTG printing is a reliable choice, offering a tried-and-true method to bring your creative visions to life. You can experiment with DTG to see how well it aligns with specific needs and design expectations.
What is DTF Printing?
puts the image on a special film. Then, it irons the image onto clothes using a hot press.
This way, you get bright and detailed designs on different fabrics, like polyester or cotton.
The cool part? No need for special treatment before printing. This is why DTF printing is a faster and simpler way to jazz up your clothes with breathtaking designs!
How Does DTF Printing Work?
DTF printing has a great way of bringing some extraordinary designs to life. Here’s how DTF printing works-
- Design Printing– A separate printer uses water-based inks to put your breathtaking design onto a unique transfer film.
- Adhesive Sprinkle– The printed design gets a sprinkle of special adhesive powder, adding a touch of magic to make it stick.
- Heat Press Transformation– The real magic happens in the heat press. We press the film design onto the fabric, using heat, which creates a colorful masterpiece.
Even though it involves a few steps, the entire transformation (from a digital idea to a printed reality) takes just a few minutes. That’s the spell of DTF printing! It’s worth giving a try.
Advantages and Disadvantages of DTF Printing
We have discussed the pros and cons of DTG printing. So it’s only fair to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the DTF printing method. Read ahead to know more-
Advantages of DTF Printing
- You can expect high-quality prints with intricate details. DTF methods can create complex, delicate patterns. It uses white ink as the base, which has stunning colors on dark shirts.
- DTF printing is a highly versatile technique suitable for varied materials like cotton and polyester. It is ideal for small business promotional items such as t-shirts, jackets, and caps. Its flexibility extends to accommodating diverse designs. You can expect intricate images to be simple logos. It supports various design sizes.
- DTF printing is cheaper and faster than DTG, saving costs and time by avoiding separate screens and pre-treatment. DTG requires costly ink and hardware for small orders. However, DTF printing utilizes less expensive powder glue and ink, making it a more affordable option for individuals and small businesses. The cost-effectiveness of DTF printing, especially for limited quantities is commendable. Overall, DTF printing offers an inexpensive choice with simplified processes.
- You can count on its durability. It has tensile strength because of an adhesive put on the cloth. It resists, fading, peeling, or breaking- more resistant than DTG printing.
Disadvantages of DTF Printing
- DTF printing uses a heat press where the energy required to run it may affect the environment by generating carbon emissions. So it’s safe to say it isn’t quite an environmentally friendly option either. Currently, the world is trending more toward sustainable options, so it would catch their eye.
- DTF printing equipment needs regular maintenance to produce high-quality prints. A heat press, a digital printer, and a machine for powder adhesive coating are a few tools we usually utilize in DTF printing. All parts need regular maintenance.
We clean the digital printer and calibrate it regularly to ensure it produces prints of the highest caliber. We clean the print head and ink cartridges and change them periodically to avoid blockage. The printer must be calibrated. It will get you printouts that look lovely and aligned.
When to choose direct-to-film printing (DTF)?
Direct-to-film (DTF) printing is the go-to choice when printing on polyester, nylon, fleece, or synthetic materials. Its versatility extends beyond clothing to items for you, like bags and hats, offering a broader range of products.
Opt for DTF when your designs demand intricate detailing and colors. This method ensures the best quality with vivid and sharp prints. It will stand the test of time. While DTF excels in durability, it’s worth considering that large designs, like photos, may compromise garment breathability, impacting comfort during prolonged wear.
As a savvy approach, consider ordering a sample with DTF prints to compare and ensure it aligns perfectly with your expectations. Do this before you run full-fledged it in the market.
DTF vs DTG: What is The Difference?
There are a few differences when it comes to DTF vs DTG printing. One may think they are similar, but that’s not the case. There’s more to these two printing methods than meets the eye. Let’s have a look-
1. Durability and Print Quality
DTF Printing
- Excellent Print Quality: DTF prints boast excellent quality. It offers smooth and elastic results that wear in and become more comfortable after a few washes.
- Initial Feel: DTF prints may have a plastic feel and be slightly stiff initially, but this improves with time and proper washing.
- Durability: DTF prints are known for longevity. They resist cracking and handle heavy use and cold to lukewarm washes without color fading.
- Hot Water Caution: Washing in very hot water may lead to minor cracks in the design.
- Versatility: Ideal for photos, graphics, colorful designs, and fine art, DTF excels as the ink doesn’t soak into the fabric, resulting in a thin and non-bulky print.
DTG Printing
- Fantastic Print Quality: DTG printing also provides fantastic print quality, with prints smoothing out after a few washes.
- Feel: Fresh DTG prints may feel slightly rough but later become smooth and don’t cause unpleasant sensations. There might also be a somewhat rubbery feel, but it’s generally not noticeable.
- Print Variety: Great for colorful designs, graphics, and text, DTG prints always look impressive but may vary sometimes in real.
- Considerations for Vibrancy: The fabric soaking up the ink can impact vibrancy, especially on black or colorful garments.
- Durability Assurance: Following care instructions ensures lasting prints that won’t crack, peel, or fade, highlighting the impressive durability of DTG prints.
2. Upfront Cost
There are differences in cost between both methods. Clients will need to know how much custom t-shirts cost. You should consider them carefully and then conclude for them.
DTG Printing
DTG is expensive. A regular DTG printer alone can cost between $12000- $16000 or even more. On top of the printer, you will need a heat press, a pre-treatment solution, a pre-treatment machine, and RIP software, which can significantly increase your expenses. Even a more affordable entry-level DTG printer can lead to a total investment of around $12,000, considering consumables and other necessary equipment.
DTF Printing
DTF is more budget-friendly. You only need inks, DTF printer transfer films, and a heat press. Converted desktop printers for DTF printing can be as low as $600 to $2,000. With a decent heat press and consumables starter kit, it may cost as much as $10,000. However, despite the initial cost, there will be ongoing costs for aqueous ink.
DTF printing involves a more affordable converted printer, resulting in a lower overall budget.
3. Printing Cost
When comparing DTF vs DTG cost, one has to factor in several things. But there is one thing that significantly creates differences in their printing cost. Let’s look into that-
DTF Printing Cost
DTF printing is generally more affordable than DTG printing. DTF uses less expensive powder glue and ink, contributing to cost savings. The simplicity of the DTF process, without the need for separate screens or pre-treatment, makes it a cost-effective choice.
DTG Printing Cost
DTG printing tends to be more expensive compared to DTF. It requires costly ink and hardware, especially for smaller orders. Additional setup costs, such as pre-treatment for dark garments, contribute to the overall higher printing cost.
In short, if cost efficiency is a priority, DTF printing is often the more economical option due to its simplified process and lower material expenses.
4. Printing speed
You have to consider the time to print when choosing between the two. We can safely say DTG is the slowest among the two. Let’s see how-
DTG Printing
DTG printing is the slower option as it prints designs line by line. An entry-level DTG printer typically prints 10 to 15 t-shirts per hour. It doesn’t include the time needed for pretreating garments.
You can reduce time by pre-treating garments beforehand or buying pre-treated garments. Two people can produce 6-7 shirts in an hour from pretreatment to final heat press with the right setup. Further workspace optimization can match the 15 to 20 shirts per hour statistic.
DTF Printing
If you are looking for a faster printing technique, we recommend this one. DTF is best when you want multiple designs on a single transfer film. Estimates suggest that the machines can print around fifty transfer films with artwork in approximately half an hour. We do it before applying a heat press to transfer the design onto the garment.
Although cutting and separating the printed films require manual labor, DTF printing significantly reduces preparation time compared to DTG. The absence of the pretreatment process gives DTF printing a notable time advantage over DTG printing.
Therefore, we can say DTF has a faster printing speed and takes less time to deliver orders compared to DTG.
5. Color
Both DTG printing and DTF have a variation in terms of color reproduction. Let’s see what we’ve got for both printing methods.
DTG Printing
DTG prints use CMYK inks, accurately representing colors on the printed medium. The color vibrancy is appealing. Although, it may not be as bright as DTF prints.
DTG offers excellent color-blending properties due to water-based inks and transparency. It captures or replicates gradient changes and subtle design elements as and when we combine inks to create beautiful blends.
Depending on factors like ink type or transparency DTG color vibrancy may seem muted on black or darker substrates. Experimenting with ink and design settings can enhance color vibrancy.
DTF printing
DTF prints, like DTG, use CMYK inks for accurate color reproduction. The design transfers well to the substrate when heat-pressed with the correct settings.
DTF colors are notably vibrant. The heat-press process enhances color vibrancy, surpassing DTG, where it absorbs inks by the substrate. This vibrancy is particularly effective on black or darker substrates.
Similar to DTG, color management is crucial for DTF. Pantone Bridge tool previews color appearance in CMYK for customer expectation management. Clients remain satisfied with this process. We think you should experiment with the DTF method for a better experience.
6. Print Intricacy
While there is a noticeable difference in print colors between DTF and DTG printing, this variance doesn’t directly affect print complexity, one might assume.
DTG Printing
DTG utilizes aqueous ink, which is absorbed by the substrate. Importantly, this absorption doesn’t compromise accuracy. People favor DTG printing for its exceptional intricacy and print quantity. Direct-to-garment prints, applied directly to an item, ensure that details remain crisp. It makes DTG the best choice for printing photos or intricate designs.
DTF Printing
While DTF printing maintains great intricacy for prints, there is a subtle difference in precision. As the design transfers from the transfer film to the garment surface, a degree of precision is lost compared to DTG.
In terms of print intricacy or complexity, DTG emerges as the overall winner. Despite DTF’s capabilities, the direct application of prints by DTG ensures it preserves intricate details with exceptional precision. This makes it the desired option for those prioritizing complex designs.
7. Fabric Suitability
Many would have this common doubt regarding fabric and printing methods. Let’s clear up that confusion for you.
DTG printing
Our DTG printing is well-suited for cotton and cotton-blend fabrics. It works particularly well on lighter-colored garments, providing vibrant and detailed prints. The texture of the fabric plays a role in DTG printing.
Soft and even textured fabrics yield the best results. They allow for the proper application of intricate designs. DTG prints tend to have a softer feel on the fabric, maintaining the natural texture.
DTF Printing
DTF printing offers greater versatility in terms of fabric suitability. You can use it in a broader range of fabrics, including polyester, cotton, and blends. Unlike DTG, DTF is less dependent on the texture of the fabric.
It can accommodate both textured and smooth, making it suitable for a variety of materials. DTF prints may have a slightly different feel compared to DTG. Depending on the heat transfer process, the print can integrate with the fabric, offering a unique texture.
8. Print comfort
DTG vs DTF printing has varying points of comfort. We aren’t joking when we talk about comfort. Many of our clients have complained of difference in comfort experience. You would be surprised how it all works when talking about DTF vs DTG quality of comfort.
DTG printing
The ink in DTG printing is put directly on the shirt or any garment without using a fixing powder. It gives the attire an incredibly lightweight and delicate feel.
DTF printing
The powder adhesive used for this kind of printing may feel heavier or thicker once cured. It’s not rare for the t-shirts to feel plasticky and heavy on the skin after a DTF print. The clothes may feel stiff across the back and chest, especially with large-scale designs prone to wrinkles.
9. Quantity Difference
DTG and DTF printing methods have differences in the number of order quantities.
DTG Printing
DTG printing is ideal for small-scale orders that require high customization with complex designs and multiple colors.
However, DTG printing has a long setup time, which may be an issue. After pretreating the garment and allowing the pretreatment to settle with a heat press, the garment is lined up on the printer platen, creases smoothen out, and printing begins.
To meet customer demand efficiently, a well-optimized printing process is crucial for DTG. It allows for quick output, but cost management is essential to avoid overspending on production costs. DTG printing is not scalable for larger orders.
The increasing overhead costs make it less favorable for long-term runs, emphasizing the need for efficient small-scale production.
DTF Printing
DTF printing is suitable for larger orders. Designs are printed on wide transfer films for cost-effective bulk printing of multiple designs on a single sheet. DTF printing is more cost-effective and quick for bulk printing compared to small-scale orders. The ability to print numerous designs on a single transfer film maximizes efficiency.
Transfer films in various sizes provide flexibility in setting correct measurements to maximize prints. Additionally, popular designs can be easily printed onto transfer films and stocked for future orders.
DTF printing allows for the preparation of printed transfer films in advance. It enables potential sales of these films for customers who want to apply designs to various items.
10. Eco-friendliness
In the eco-friendly competition, DTG printing emerges as the more environmentally conscious option. It utilizes fewer inks, minimizes material waste, and offers a more sustainable solution compared to DTF printing.
DTG Printing
DTG printing stands out as more environmentally friendly. It utilizes water-based inks and significantly reduces ink and overall printing material consumption. Direct-to-garment printing minimizes waste, as designs are printed directly onto the garment. Unlike DTF, there is no excess material like transfer film, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient process.
DTF Printing
DTF printing, while also using water-based inks, consumes more white ink. This higher consumption can impact the sustainability and profitability of the business. DTF printing involves the use of transfer films, contributing to potential waste. The process of transferring designs from film to the garment can generate excess material, affecting the overall environmental footprint.
11. Maintenance
Maintenance cycles for both DTG and DTF printers are generally comparable. However, DTF printers enjoy an advantage in using significantly less white ink compared to DTG printing.
White ink often contributes to various maintenance issues in printers. Thankfully, basic maintenance practices are typically sufficient to guarantee optimal function for both types of printers.
DTF vs DTG – Which One is Better?
So now you would ask- DTG vs DTF, which is better? Choosing between the two can be a difficult one to do. As we have already mentioned the differences, there is a lot to think about. You must consider your financials, requirements, design size, color combinations, and so on.
1. Fabric
DTF printing is versatile and works well on a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, and more. It provides flexibility in material selection. But, DTG printing is best suited for 100% cotton or cotton blend fabrics. It may not perform as effectively on other fabric types.
2. Design
DTF printing excels in handling intricate designs with ease. It is capable of reproducing fine details, making it suitable for complex and detailed artwork. While DTG printing can produce detailed designs, it may struggle with small details and fine lines, which could impact the overall precision of the print.
3. Production volume
DTF is adaptable to both, small and large-volume orders due to its straightforward printing operation and short production cycle. It is efficient and can handle varying order sizes effectively. DTG is more suitable for small-quantity orders. Its printing process is intricate, and while it provides high-quality prints, it may not scale as efficiently for larger production volumes.
Your choice between DTF printing vs DTG printing should align with all your requirements. Careful consideration of these factors will help you make informed decisions based on your specific printing requirements.
We have seen many clients make poor decisions and don’t want you to do so. Talk to experts like us who can help in case of confusion.
Top-notch Custom Printed Apparel from Tampa Clothing!
The differences between DTG and DTF are many. Both DTG and DTF printing methods have their advantages and disadvantages. Comparing DTF vs DTG helps you make a smart decision when getting custom printed business shirts.
It’s important to choose an option that suits your business or needs. If you’re still unsure, reach out to Tampa Clothing for expert guidance and custom apparel manufacturing services. Whether you need one shirt or hundreds, we ensure you get the right printing method. Our experts will guide you with custom apparel designs and assure timely delivery.
You are just one call away!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does DTF print feel similar to vinyl?
No, DTF prints typically feel softer and more flexible compared to vinyl. The ink is directly absorbed into the fabric, providing a smoother texture.
2. Which is costlier- DTG or DTF?
Choosing between DTG and DTF printing involves considering cost factors. While DTG printers typically have a higher upfront cost, they often boast lower running costs due to less ink consumption and durable prints.
DTF machinery is initially more budget-friendly but may require frequent investment for larger and faster print runs. Set-up costs, consumables like inks and materials, and maintenance solutions contribute to overall expenses. Additionally, DTF printing demands more physical space than DTG.
Deciding between DTG and DTF printing- the two methods require a careful assessment of both initial and ongoing financial considerations.
3. Does DTG print easily fade away?
With proper care, DTG prints can maintain their vibrancy for a long time. However, frequent washing and harsh detergents may contribute to fading over an extended period. There are ways to maintain these prints. Know about them and enjoy.
4. Does DTF print last long?
In terms of DTG vs DTF durability, DTF prints are durable and can last a long time on fabrics, especially, when cared for with cold water washing and gentle detergents. But if you don’t take proper care, there can be consequences. So take care of such matters.
5. Can DTF be used on dark shirts?
Yes, it can print on dark shirts using a specialized DTF printer equipped with a white layer, along with DTF film and ink. Unlike traditional methods, DTF allows vibrant prints on dark fabrics without any color restrictions.
6. Is DTF printing of good quality?
Yes, our DTF printing produces high-quality and detailed prints with a wide color spectrum. It is what makes it suitable for intricate designs on various fabrics. This high level of precision makes DTF printing particularly suitable for intricate and complex designs.
Whether it’s on cotton, polyester, blends, or other materials, DTF brings a level of detail that elevates the overall quality of the printed output.
7. Does DTG printing crack?
It doesn’t crack, peel, or fade if customers take proper care of it like, gentle machine washing and avoiding heat and fabric softeners. Generally, DTG prints don’t crack when properly cured, which involves heat-setting the ink onto the fabric during the printing process.
Ensuring the correct curing time and temperature helps maintain the flexibility and integrity of the printed design. It prevents it from cracking even after multiple washes.
From start to finish Bryan is your go-to contact he will guide you through the setup and design process while making sure all your needs are met!
