How DTG Printing Works
Direct-to-garment printing sprays water-based ink straight into cotton fibres, like an inkjet printer for t-shirts. You get photographic detail with a soft feel. It's perfect for supporter tees and merch.
Pre-treat
Dark garments are pre-treated so the white underbase and colours bond with the cotton.
Print
The printer sprays ink directly into the fabric, layer by layer.
Cure
Heat cures the ink so it stays put through washing.
At a Glance
What to expect, and when another method is the better fit.
- Colours
- Full colour, including photos and gradients
- Feel
- Soft, part of the fabric
- Durability
- Good on cotton when cured and washed as directed
- Works on
- Cotton and high-cotton blends
- Not for
- Polyester performance fabrics
- Best for
- Supporter tees, merchandise and small runs
The Finish
Drag to compare two dtg printing finishes.
DTG Printing FAQ
Can DTG print on performance polyester?
No. DTG inks are made for cotton. For polyester, sublimation or DTF is used.
Can DTG print on black t-shirts?
Yes. Dark garments are pre-treated and printed with a white underbase.
Is DTG good for one-off designs?
Yes. There are no screens or per-design setup, so it suits small runs and variety.
How should DTG prints be washed?
Wash inside out on a cool cycle and avoid ironing directly on the print.
Put It On
Your Kit
Send your artwork for a method recommendation