What is DTG printing?
If you’ve been exploring options for custom apparel, you may have seen the term DTG come up. But what exactly does it mean, and how is it different from screen printing or embroidery?
What Does DTG Mean?
DTG stands for Direct-to-Garment printing. It’s a modern printing method where a specialized inkjet printer applies water-based inks directly onto the fabric of a shirt or hoodie — similar to how a paper printer works, but for clothing.
Benefits of DTG Printing
Full-Color Designs – Perfect for artwork with lots of colors, gradients, or fine details.
No Minimums – Great for small orders or even one-off shirts.
Soft Feel – Inks soak into the fabric, leaving a smooth, lightweight print.
Fast Turnaround – Because it doesn’t require screens, DTG can be quicker for short runs.
Things to Consider
Works best on 100% cotton shirts and light-colored fabrics.
Not as durable for heavy wear as screen printing — prints may fade faster with frequent washing.
Less cost-effective for bulk orders compared to traditional screen printing.
When to Choose DTG
DTG is a great choice if you need:
Small runs of custom shirts
Photographic or highly detailed designs
Personalized, one-off gifts or samples
For larger bulk orders, screen printing is usually the better option.
Final Takeaway
DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printing is a digital printing method that allows for vibrant, detailed designs on small orders with no minimums. While screen printing is still the gold standard for durability and cost-effectiveness in bulk, DTG is perfect for one-offs and specialty projects.
Contact us today to learn more about DTG vs. screen printing and find the best option for your custom apparel project.