What is direct to garment printing and how does it work?

Direct to garment printing (DTG) is a digital printing process that allows for full-color, high-quality designs to be printed directly onto garments such as t-shirts, hoodies, and other apparel. Unlike traditional printing methods such as screen printing, DTG printing does not require the use of separate screens for each color in the design. Instead, the design is printed directly onto the garment using a specialized inkjet printer.

Here’s how the DTG printing process works:

1. Design preparation: The design to be printed is first prepared using specialized software that converts the design into a digital file format that can be read by the printer.
2. Garment preparation: The garment is then pre-treated with a special solution that helps the ink adhere to the fabric and prevents it from bleeding or fading over time.
3. Printing: The pre-treated garment is placed onto the printer, which uses a series of inkjet nozzles to apply the ink directly onto the fabric in the desired design.
4. Heat setting: The printed garment is then placed into a heat press, which helps to set the ink and ensure that the design is durable and long-lasting.

The result is a high-quality, full-color print that is soft to the touch and has excellent washability. DTG printing is a popular choice for small orders, complex designs, and designs with many colors, as it allows for a high level of detail and customization.