Introduction
If you’re printing custom apparel, two popular technologies dominate: DTG (Direct-to-Garment) and DTF (Direct-to-Film). But which is better for your business?
What is DTG Printing?
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Prints directly onto the fabric using inkjet technology
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Best for cotton and light-colored garments
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Excellent for photorealistic, detailed designs
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Requires pre-treatment and works best for small-batch, high-quality runs
What is DTF Printing?
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Prints onto film and is transferred to the garment with heat press
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Works on a wider range of fabrics (cotton, polyester, blends)
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No pre-treatment needed
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Great for bold graphics and white/light ink on dark fabrics
Pros & Cons
| Feature | DTG | DTF |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric Support | Mostly cotton | Cotton, polyester, blends |
| Setup Time | Higher (pre-treatment) | Lower |
| Print Quality | Photographic | Slightly lower, but bolder |
| Cost-Effective | Small runs | Medium to large runs |