What are DTG and DTF Printing?

Direct-to-garment (DTG) has long been the most common method for t-shirt printing and small productions, but in recent months, Direct-to-film (DTF) has gained ground in the industry, with more supporters with each passing day. To grasp this paradigm shift, we must first grasp the differences between the two approaches.

What is DTG Printing?

DTG printing stands for Direct to Garment printing. The DTG printing process is a relatively new method that produces high-quality printing that stays put for years. This printing process is also referred to as Inkjet to Garment Printing, Digital Garment Printing, and Digital Apparel Printing.

DTG printing is a technique for printing graphics on textiles and clothing. It prints whatever you want onto the garment using modified inkjet technology. Images are printed directly into clothing using a digital piezo print head. Think of a DTG machine as a large photo printer. It's essentially the same operation, only on a much larger scale.

Benefits of DTG Printing

Ideal for small businesses.
More options than screen printing.
It's sustainable.
It is easy to use
It requires less space
Offer expanded graphics capabilities
It offers a versatile array of platens
Offers lower cost of production vs. screen printing
Offers different levels of productivity and features
It helps you in business expansion.

Drawbacks of DTG Printing

Good quality DTG printers need a fair amount of investment. Printers range from 10,000$ to $350,000.
The printing process can be lengthy, which increases production costs quickly.
A learning curve is involved with respect to the pretreatments, fabrics, and desired performance.
A fair amount of care has to be taken of the print-heads which is the most important part of the print process.
Not suitable for all types of garments - the textiles must contain at least 50% of cotton.

What is DTF Printing?

The DTF procedure is as straightforward as its name implies: print on a film and transfer directly to fabric. The ability to choose practically any fabric is the most important aspect that makes this procedure appealing to a wider audience. Polyester, cotton, silk, or synthetic fibers like rayon or terry cot will surely benefit from the DTF printing technique.

Benefits of DTF Printing

Versatility on Materials
Cost-Effective
No Pretreat Required
No A+B Sheets Marrying Process
Production Speed
Washability
Easy Application
High Stretchability and Soft Hand Feel
No Scorching

Drawbacks of DTF Printing

DTG printing is more attractive than full-size printing.
The hand feel of these prints differs from that of direct-to-garment (DTG) printing.
Safety equipment must be used while working with DTF goods.
The DTF adhesive powder has to be kept cool. Humidity levels that are too high might lead to poor quality.

Both kinds of printing may benefit small items or personalization, such as T-shirts or masks. However, determining which one to utilize for a business might be difficult because the outputs and printing process differ in both cases. If you wish to purchase DTG or DTF Printer Ink then buying compatible inks from Splashjet could be the best option for you.