Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is a Revolution in the clothing industry. Direct-to-garment printing is a method of making t-shirts that uses a specific type of digital printer to use water-based inks directly to fabric surfaces. It is distinctive from other printing methods because it shifts inks directly to t-shirt surfaces without using a screen or paper. DTG printing gets images for printing from digital collections and enables DTG printers to make any color with a high degree of resolution and acuity. DTG can print on common t-shirt fabrics, including cotton, polyester, and cotton/polyester blends. It prints best
on regular materials such as cotton.
History of DTG Printing
Its roots can be traced back to the late 1990s when the initial efforts to print full-color images directly onto textiles took place. It was a revolution in the outdated and time-consuming methods that were previously used.
Benefits of DTG Printing
Understanding the exclusive advantages of DTG printing can help you make an informed decision. Let’s investigate some of these advantages that are updating the custom apparel industry and enhancing creativity:
High-Resolution Printing: DTG printing creates high-resolution prints with bright colors and sharp details. It’s the greatest option for complicated designs that require color arrangements or several tones.
Proficient for Small Orders: As opposed to other printing methods, DTG is ideal for low-volume orders and one-offs. This productivity makes it perfect for newer and small business owners.
Fast Results: Since there's no need for a system as in screen printing, DTG printing can complete orders in a minimum time.
Limitless Color Choices: With DTG, you can use a variety of colors in your design with no experience of extra costs.
Environment-Friendly: DTG uses water-based inks which are milder on the environment in contrast with the plastisol inks used in screen printing.
Customizable: As designs are digitally printed onto the garment, DTG is feasible for complete customization, ideal for brands or artists who want to experiment with different designs.
Innovations in Technology: The constant advancement of DTG technology directly reflects progress in many areas, including custom wear. It not only improved the productivity of apparel customization but also raised the value, accuracy, and customization options.
Different Kinds of DTG Printers
What is the best choice of DTG printer for you depends on the type of your business, your professional needs, and your budget. Let’s discuss the forms of DTG Printers:
The first type is called entry-level DTG printers. These are perfect for newer or smaller businesses with affordable options including models like the Epson SureColor F2100 and the Brother GTX Pro. They offer high-quality printing.
The second kind is the mid-level DTG printers like the Anajet mPower and the M2 from ColDesi are a useful option for those who need faster turnaround times. They offer high reliability in prints along with a broader color range.
The third type is industrial DTG printers such as the Kornit Avalanche HD6 and Epson F3070 for industrial use and with super-fast production speed, best print quality, and reliability.
How Does DTG Printing Work?
DTG printing works by using inks directly to t-shirt fabrics, in contrast to methods that apply inks indirectly using screens or paper. It does by the help of an updated type of inkjet printer. To apply these inks, DTG printing uses a four-step process:
Making Digital Art Files: DTG printers require digital files in particular arrangements like PSD and PNG. These files, typically created in programs like Photoshop, are changed into a format called CMYK.
Pretreating and Curing T-Shirts: T-shirts need pretreatment to keep the ink from scattering or discoloring. This pretreatment is then cured with heat to make the printing surface smooth.
Printing on T-Shirts: T-shirts are placed on a smooth board called a platen to confirm they're in the accurate position for printing. Once lined up, they're fed into the printer for printing.
Tips and Tricks for Starting With DTG Printing
Are you feeling enthusiastic to dive into the world of direct-to-garment (DTG) printing? Here are some practical DTG printing tips to help get you started on the right foot:
Recognize your Design Software: Information related to graphic design software like Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop is vital. Give some time to absorb how to generate elegant, detailed designs.
Do a Trial With Shades and Textures: DTG printing is best with designs that have many colors and complicated designs. So, go forward and test your palette. Complex gradients, in-depth pictures, and tricky designs can all be attained easily.
Understand the Material: DTG printing works best on 100% cotton material. If you want to print on a blend, remember that the ink may not stick to as well to the non-cotton fibers as well.
Spend on Quality Tools: While this might seem obvious, it's worth repeating. High-quality machines will give greater outcomes.
Test Prints: Before quantity printing, always make a trial print. This will make sure that your design seems exactly how you fantasized it on the fabric.
Repairs are Significant: Consistent maintenance of your DTG printer will guarantee its long life and keep it working smoothly. Daily cleaning can inhibit clogs and other common harms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing has transformed the clothing industry by offering high-resolution prints, quick results, and unlimited color options. Its eco-friendly nature, combined with its ability for customization and continuous technological developments, make it an amazing option for businesses of all sizes. When considering DTG printers, it's necessary to align your choice with your business type, requirements, and budget. With proper knowledge of the printing process and adherence to best practices, DTG printing can reveal a world of creative possibilities and business opportunities.