DTG or direct to garment printing is sometimes referred to as just-in-time or full color print. It’s a relatively new printing method that prints directly onto a garment or fabric through what is essentially a modified version of a traditional inkjet printer. It’s like a regular inkjet printer which has been modified to “accept” garments instead of paper. The ink is printed directly onto fabric which results in exceptional softness or “hand” and offers more printing flexibility than screen printing. The color variation is great and the turn-around time is much shorter (especially for smaller orders).
When it first appeared in the market it was originally for light garments only because white ink was not available. As the technology has advanced, DTG printing providers are adding dark garments as an option.
This is perfect for printing a full color photograph, personalized gift or that gag shirt for a friend. The art requirements for our DTG printer aren’t as strict as screen printing. We can print from bitmaps and jpegs on occasion.
Not all garments are a good fit for the DTG printer. Because it sprays the ink on a “low pile” shirt/ garment is best. We can recommend a few but our favorite is the Gildan 2000 and 5000.
DTG printing is not for every job but it certainly opens the door for small quantity jobs and many colors at cost effective prices. Durability is comparable to screen printing because of it’s heat sealed finish.
View some of our DTG samples here:
Full Color, Photographic
Personalized
One of a kind
Full Color
Low quantity
Youth Group
This youth group from New York contacted us to create their shirts for their adventure. We worked via email to create the design and get it laid out just so. This was another shirt that was perfect for digital printing. The timeline was short and there were several colors. They chose the burnt orange color which is perfect when camping and getting dirty. The boys loved their shirts and had a great time!
DTG, Digital Print, Full Color
The students at East Hollywood High gave us a call about printing these vibrant shirts. When we took a look at the art we knew this was a perfect job for digital printing (also known as DTG or Direct to Garment). The combination of many colors, shading, gradients and low quantity of shirts is the DTG qualifier. What a great way to celebrate the end of a great year!
Digital Print, DTG, Full Color
