Glossary
DTG (Direct-to-Garment)
DTG, or Direct-to-Garment, is a digital printing method used in garment decoration and textile printing. In DTG printing, designs are directly printed onto garments or textiles using specialized inkjet printers equipped with textile inks.
The DTG printing process typically involves the following steps:
- Preparation: The garment or textile is prepared for printing by ensuring it is clean, flat, and properly positioned on the printer's platen.
- Pre-treatment: Some textiles may require pre-treatment with a specialized solution to enhance ink adhesion and color vibrancy. The pre-treatment is applied to the garment using a dedicated pre-treatment machine or spray system.
- Printing: The design is digitally printed onto the garment using a DTG printer equipped with textile-specific inks. The printer applies the ink directly onto the fabric, layer by layer, to achieve the desired design.
- Curing: After printing, the ink is cured or set using a heat press or conveyor dryer. Curing ensures that the ink adheres firmly to the fabric and withstands washing and wear.
- Finishing: Once cured, the printed garment may undergo additional finishing processes, such as steaming or pressing, to further enhance print quality and durability.
DTG printing offers several advantages over traditional printing methods, including:
- High-Quality Prints: DTG printing allows for the reproduction of intricate designs with vibrant colors and fine details, resulting in professional-quality prints.
- No Minimum Order Requirements: Unlike screen printing, which may have minimum order requirements, DTG printing is ideal for on-demand and small-batch production, allowing for cost-effective printing of individual garments.
- Full-Color Printing: DTG printing can reproduce designs with unlimited colors in a single print run, without the need for separate screens or color separations.
- Customisation: DTG printing enables personalised and customisable designs, making it popular for creating custom apparel, promotional items, and one-of-a-kind products.
DTG printing is commonly used in various applications, including:
- T-shirts and apparel
- Hoodies and sweatshirts
- Tote bags and accessories
- Team uniforms and jerseys
- Corporate merchandise and promotional items
More information about Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing
- Read more about DTG printing, consumables and supplies.
- Check out our DTG inventory.
