DTF vs DTG | Direct To Fabric VS Direct To Garment Printing

DTF vs. DTG Printing

Hey, have you heard about this new printing process called Direct-to-Fabric (DTF)? It’s starting to give Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing a run for its money when it comes to customizing clothing. As an apparel designer, creator, or retailer, knowing the differences between these methods can really help you rake in some extra cash.

What is Direct-to-Fabric (DTF) Printing?

DTF printing is a way to customize clothes by printing a design onto a special film with an inkjet printer. The film is then put on the fabric and pressed with heat, which puts the ink on the fabric. The main advantages of DTF are:

What is Direct-to-Garment (DTG) Printing?

Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing customizes apparel by applying ink directly to fabric. Using a specially designed inkjet printer, DTG is a popular alternative to traditional screen printing.

The main benefits of DTG are:

Comparing DTF vs DTG

Each project is different, so there isn’t a single best print method. Direct-to-Fabric and Direct to Garment printing can both produce excellent results, but we’ve found the following based on our experience.

Color Vibrance

Direct-To-Fabric transfer prints achieve excellent color vibrance, saturation, and accuracy. Alternatively, vivid color has been one area where Direct-To-Garment printing has not performed as well.

Durability

Both customization methods can produce long-lasting prints, but DTF printing tends to produce more durable results. Direct to Film designs are bonded to the fabric using heat, while Direct to Garment ink coats fabric fibers which can weaken over time.

Feel

Apparel printed using both methods have a similar hand feel, but DTG produces a softer texture. The feel of a DTF-printed garment will depend on several factors and sometimes produces a smooth, glossy finish, that feels like vinyl.

Fabrics Types

Direct-to-Film can be used on a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, and blended fabrics, while DTG performs best on natural-fiber products like cotton. It uses water-soluble ink, which isn’t easily absorbed by many synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and rayon.

Printing Speed

The production speed of DTG and DTF apparel printing can vary based on a number of factors, but Direct to Film is typically faster. The big difference is curing time for DTG, which can take up to 15 minutes.

Printing Ease

Direct-To-Film is easier than Direct-To-Garment printing. Once the ink is printed onto a DTF transfer, it only needs only to be pressed onto the fabric using heat. DTG printing requires the shirt to be pre-treated with chemicals before printing, and then it needs to be heat cured after printing.

Versatility

Direct-To-Film is much more versatile than Direct-to-Garment printing. Not only can DTF work on most fabrics, but it can be applied to most apparel types. In addition, the ability to position DTF transfers by hand allows for unique print placements that DTG can’t match.

Cost

DTF tends to be less expensive than DTG. Although both printing methods require a significant amount of equipment, additional costs like consumables, maintenance, and staff training give DTF the edge in the cost battle.

This simplified comparison of Direct-to-Film with Direct-to-Garment printing is based on a broad set of assumptions; however, the results can differ based on specific applications. Contact us to learn more about the best option for your project.

Which is Best: DTF or DTG?

Direct-to-Film (DTF) and Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing can both produce excellent results. While the best option will depend on factors like project requirements, garment, and budget, we recommend DTF as the best option. It’s less expensive and more versatile, while still providing a feel comparable to Direct to Garment printing.

No matter if you’re an individual creator or a small business, Direct-to-Film printing offers significant benefits over Direct-to-Garment.