DTG vs. DTF Printing: Which Method Is Better for Your Designs?
DTF, DTG, GTG, FYI, OMG . . . so many acronyms, so little time.
Jokes aside, let’s discuss the first two - DTF, direct-to-film printing, and DTG, direct-to-garment printing. While we specialize exclusively in DTF printing, we want you to understand the key differences so you can see why it’s the perfect choice for your needs.
DTG and DTG are popular methods for printing designs onto garments. Both techniques have unique features and benefits, so choosing between them can be challenging if you’re starting a clothing brand, for example.
Understanding printing in depth can help you decide which suits your designs or brand best, whether you want to start a t-shirt business or learn more about printing techniques.
So, DTG vs. DTF printing: what are the main differences, advantages, and best uses for each? Keep reading to learn all there is to know about these popular fulfillment methods.
DTG vs. DTF printing
If you’re eager for a quick answer, let’s cut to the chase. Both DTG and DTF printing deliver fantastic results, but which is better depends on your needs. DTG shines with natural fabrics like cotton, offering soft, breathable prints that are perfect for simple, bold designs. DTF, on the other hand, works well on a variety of materials, providing vibrant, long-lasting prints (especially for complex, colorful designs). So, consider your design and material before choosing the right method.
What is DTF printing?
Direct-to-film printing is a relatively new technique that’s growing in popularity. DTF prints have excellent color accuracy and detail, are durable, and look fantastic.
Other DTF printing benefits include low production costs, a wide range of color options, and the ability to print on dark and light garments. It’s also suitable for various material types like polyester, cotton, nylon, and fleece.
How does DTF printing work?
Here are the basic steps of DTF printing:
- The design is printed onto a special transfer film with water-based inks
- The ink on the film is then coated with a special adhesive powder
- Then, the design is transferred onto the fabric using a heat press
While the process seems lengthy, involving multiple steps and actions, print time for one garment is just a few minutes.
WHY CHOOSE DTF PRINTING?
Ideal For Small Orders: DTF printing is cost-effective for smaller batches that don’t meet the usual minimum quantity required for screen printing.
Colourful or Complex Designs: Excellent for high-colour & photographic designs that have well-defined edges.
Great For Tricky Fabrics: DTF printing is ideal for a variety of fabrics that may not be well-suited for Direct to Garment (DTG) printing. This includes not only polyester but also certain 100% cotton garments that may not yield the best results with DTG. Additionally, DTF is suitable for printing on all fabric colours, unlike DTG, which is more limited in garment colour options. This versatility makes DTF an excellent choice for a broader range of garment types and colours.
Color vibrancy
DTF printing uses primary colors (known as CMYK or cyan, magenta, yellow, and black) and white ink for the base. Every design will be vibrant and vivid, no matter the fabric color or type.
DTG printing also relies on the CMYK color model to print all designs, with our in-house technology using Red and Green as well (CMYKRG). The prints have a white ink underbase, but only when the design is printed on black or colorful garments. The white ink underbase isn’t used for printing designs on white fabrics.
Since the ink is jetted directly onto the fabric, it soaks up some of the color. As a result, the vividness of the print is reliant on the product’s absorbency and can vary between different product types. The prints on some more challenging garments, for example, may not come out as bright or vivid as with DTF printing. Still, DTG produces some awesome prints.
Quantity
If you’re looking for a printing technique that suits print-on-demand production (POD), DTF printing is a great option. It’s possible to print just one shirt or bulk order custom t-shirts; both options fit well with on-demand production. Before selling items with DTF prints, you can always order one for yourself and compare the same design fulfilled with different techniques.
Ready to experience the quality of DTF printing? Explore our collection and create your custom piece today.