DTF vs DTG Printing: Selecting the Best Printing Method for Your Printing Business

The main difference between DTG (Direct-to-Garment) and DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing lies in their fabric compatibility and application methods; DTG excels on natural fabrics like cotton with high-quality, detailed designs, while DTF offers greater versatility on various materials, including synthetics, and provides enhanced durability. Your choice should depend on the specific requirements for fabric type, print quality, and budget.

DTG and DTF are two of the most used printing processes for garments. To determine the best printing methods for your designs, you must first comprehend the distinction between these two printing alternatives. In this blog post, we'll go over the benefits, drawbacks, and important distinctions between each strategy to help you make an informed selection. Read on to find out which one can elevate your ideas to the next level!

Unless you've been entirely out of the loop, you and all garment printers are aware that Direct to Garment (DTG) and Direct to Film (DTF) printing technologies have caused a revolution in the garment printing industry. As these novel printing processes gain popularity, businesses have more alternatives regarding which printing method to use in their print shops. 

The choice between DTF vs DTG Printing affects more than just print quality; it is a strategic decision that can significantly alter operating efficiency, cost structure, output quality, and, ultimately, a print shop's business model.

Where precision and profitability go hand in hand, choosing the proper printing technology is more than just a technical decision; it is a critical component of your company's competitive advantage and success. In this post, we will go deeper into the DTF vs DTG Printing solutions to determine which technology will not only meet, but surpass, your printing needs.

What is DTG printing?

Direct-to-garment printing (DTG) is a printing technique that transfers ink directly to clothing, as the name might imply. Thinking about a typical computer printer will help you better understand how DTG printing operates. The DTG printer employs the same inkjet technology as a conventional printer, but instead of using oil-based inks, it uses water-based inks, or aqueous inks.

A digital art file is used to send a clothing design to a DTG printer, much like it is to a conventional printer. The entire garment is then treated with a pre-treatment solution by a print supplier to stop white ink from absorbing into the fabric or blending with other inks. The printing surface is then flattened for a smoother finish by curing the solution using a heat press or air dryer. 

DTG printing process 

The item is kept in place by placing the garment on a pattern, which is a flat platform, once the pre-treatment solution has hardened. From this point on, a platen is fed via a DTG machine in the same manner as a piece of paper is fed through a printer. The aqueous ink is applied by the machine, and to seal in the design, the clothing is dried again using a heat press or air dryer.

When To Choose Direct-To-Garment Printing?

DTG printing is a fantastic option if your design has complex features or a wide spectrum of colors. It can replicate intricate and colorful designs without requiring several screens or color separations.

What is DTF printing?

A more modern printing method is called direct-to-film printing, or DTF printing. The digital art file for DTF printing must be delivered to an inkjet printer, just like for DTG printing; however, that is where the similarities between the two printing methods end. DTF printers use a specific transfer film and aqueous ink instead of printing directly onto clothing.

DTF printing process 

Applying fixing powder to the transfer film comes next. In order to properly apply the DTF ink design on the garment, fixing powder is used to make the film adherent. The print provider uses a heat press to fuse the design to the garment after applying fixing powder.

When To Choose Direct-To-Film Printing?

When complex patterns with a broad color palette are needed, direct-to-film printing is an excellent option since it may produce prints that are vivid and detailed. DTF printing can efficiently capture subtleties such as gradients, photographic components, and small details in your design.

DTF vs DTG: Print Comparison 

Pricing 

The cost of the required printing supplies is the first factor to take into account when deciding between DTG and DTF. A high-quality DTG printer can cost anywhere from $1,800 to over $14,000, although they typically consume less ink. DTF printers, on the other hand, are often less than $10,000; nevertheless, the continuous cost of aqueous inks for them can be higher.

Fortunately, by working with a print-on-demand provider, you may totally avoid making such a big investment! An alternative for DTG personalized clothing, accessories, and home décor is print on demand, or POD, which doesn't require inventory or special equipment. The custom orders are printed and packaged by your POD partner!

Options for fabrics

Certain textiles are more acceptable for direct-to-garment printing, while others are more suited for direct-to-film printing due to the differing ink applications used for DTG vs. DTF. DTF printing works well with a variety of fabric types, including fleece and nylon. For example, a DTF print looks great on a Classic Unisex Pullover Hoodie made of preshrunk fleece knit fabric.

When it comes to material options, DTG printing is a little more constrained. Cotton clothing is the ideal material for ink to bind with since DTG printing applies ink directly to the garment. For example, DTG printing can be applied on lightweight cotton-polyester crewneck t-shirts and heavyweight Premium Cotton long-sleeve t-shirts.

Time of production

Print time is a crucial consideration when contrasting DTG vs DTF. Because of the two-step curing procedure, DTG printing is typically slower than DTF printing. Before curing the ink design, a print supplier must cure the DTG pretreatment solution, which might take considerably longer if a forced air dryer is used in place of a heat press.

In contrast, DTF printing just needs one cycle of curing. Additionally, DTF printers are required to bond the design using a heat press rather than an air dryer, which expedites the procedure. Working with a POD provider will help you keep manufacturing time down if time is of the essence for your designs. 

Order total quantity 

After comparing the fabric material, it's important to think about how DTG and DTF support different order numbers. so it's a tie in this instance! In contrast to conventional screen printing, both printing methods can handle orders ranging from one t-shirt to a thousand tote bags.

Print in color

Print color is the next battleground in the conflict between DTG and DTF prints. The CMYK color model, or a primary color palette made up of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black, is used in both printing techniques. But this is where the similarities between DTG print color and DTF print color end, just like the printing process itself.

DTF prints always use white ink for the base, which can improve the color vibrancy of the transferred design elements regardless of the color of the garment. DTG prints, on the other hand, only have a white base if the pattern is printed on a garment that is colored or black. Light-colored clothing won't be printed with DTG using a white base ink.

Print spray methods

The method used to apply the colored ink to the clothing is another important distinction between DTG and DTF print colors. A DTG printer sprays ink directly onto clothing, as opposed to using a transfer film, therefore some of the ink may be absorbed by the clothing and become dull. Light fabrics work well with DTG full-color prints or prints with several colors.

DTF Vs DTG: Steps To Decide Between The Popular Printing Methods 

We've covered about a dozen factors to compare DTG vs. DTF printing; how will you use this knowledge to select the best printing technique? Either way, unless you use a print-on-demand service, a significant investment is necessary. Your choice ultimately comes down to your personal needs when you take into account factors other than the production costs of DTG and DTF.

First, let's talk about preferred fabrics and colors. While DTG works better with organic fabrics like cotton or bamboo, DTF can work with a larger range of materials. Regardless of the hue of the garment, DTF printing is likewise renowned for being more colorful. On the other hand, DTG full-color prints seem equally striking when applied to clothing with a paler hue. 

Let's talk on endurance and design detail next. Although relatively intricate designs may be produced using both printing processes, DTG is the clear winner in this category. DTG prints are able to accurately and easily replicate intricate designs because they are applied directly to the clothing. Even slightly longer-lasting than DTF prints are DTG prints!

Finally, think about how sustainable the printing process is. While both printing techniques use water-based ink and create clothes according to order, only DTG printing removes extra waste. Compared to DTF printing and conventional screen printing, direct-to-garment printing is a more environmentally friendly option because it doesn't require film or a screen. This is how you can choose Best Printing Method for you. 

Conclusion

Choosing The Right Printing Method For Your Web to Print Business

Either direct-to-garment or direct-to-film printing may produce vivid clothing, accessories, and home décor when it comes to high-quality, bespoke designs. However, when comparing DTF vs DTG Printing, direct-to-garment printing wins almost all the time! DTG printing produces elaborate patterns with supple comfort and enduring toughness.

Are you interested in direct-to-garment printing but put off by the high costs? Partner with a print-on-demand company like WTPBiz and forgo the upfront outlay! WTPBiz makes use of the best DTG equipment found in global production networks. With only a few clicks, we assist you in creating unique DTG components that satisfy your design objectives and financial constraints.

FAQ's

Q. DTG vs DTF printing: which is superior?

1. While DTF can produce brilliant colors but may have certain limits, DTG excels in full-color printing. Choose the kind and color of the substrate or fabric that you want to print on. While DTF is more adaptable for dark fabric and may be applied to a variety of fabrics, DTG is more suitable for light clothing.

Q. What drawbacks does DTF have?

1. But there are disadvantages to take into account. DTF printing has the potential to be slower than other techniques, needs routine upkeep, and requires enough ventilation because of fumes. The cost of the equipment may also be a factor. Companies should consider all of these aspects carefully before determining if DTF printing is the best option for them.

Q. How long does DTF print take?

1. DTF prints don't significantly lose quality after 50 or more washes if they are properly cared for and made of high-quality materials. This corresponds to several years of frequent use for products such as bags, hoodies, and personalized t-shirts.

Q. Is DTG a more costly option than DTF?

1. DTG printers are good for companies with regular printing demands because they often have higher starting expenses and reduced operating costs. DTF is the best option for people just starting out or with variable printing needs because of its cheaper initial cost but higher ongoing expenses.