Definition
DTG printing, or Direct-to-Garment printing, is a technology used to print images directly onto pre-made textiles such as T-shirts, tote bags, hats, etc... It offers the ability to print small quantities at a low cost, ideal for small runs or customized garments.
What is the process?
Equipment
Pre-treatment machine & solution
- Before printing, the garment must be pre-treated with a liquid glue that helps the ink adhere to the fibers. This can be done manually or with a machine.
DTG printer
- It is a specialized printer that is designed to hold the garment on an adapted pallet and to print directly onto it using water-based inks.
Heat press
- A heat press is used to apply heat and pressure to the garment, which helps prepare the garment before printing and set the ink to ensure the design is durable.
Computer
- A computer with a RIP software is required to prepare design files and convert them into digital files that can be printed on the garment.
Process flowchart
For DTG printing recommendations, refer to this article.
Other printing methods used in textile
Direct printing
Digital printing
- This is a printing method that uses digital technology to print directly onto media, whether it is fabric or other. The fabric is fed through a special printer that applies ink to the fabric roll.
Indirect printing
Sublimation printing
- This method involves printing a design onto special transfer paper, which is then placed onto the fabric and heated to transfer the design onto the fabric.
DTF
- Direct-to-Film printing involves printing a design onto a film using a specialized printer, then applying a layer of heat-activated glue powder to the film. The film is then placed onto the garment and heated using a heat press, which activates the glue powder and transfers the design onto the garment.
Info
DTF can sometimes stand for Direct-to-Fabric. This is the case with Kornit, for example. It is digital printing, not to be confused with Direct-to-Film.
Traditional method
Screen printing
- This is a traditional method of printing on textiles. A stencil is created on a mesh screen, and ink is forced through the mesh onto the fabric. This process is repeated for each color of the design. It can be applied on fabric rolls or directly on garments.