Direct to Garment Printer UK Guide 2025: Choosing the Best Technology

A direct to garment (DTG) printer in the UK is a specialised machine that prints designs directly onto fabric, offering high-quality, detailed images without the need for screens or transfers. It is ideal for producing vibrant, customised apparel quickly and efficiently, especially in small to medium production runs.

DTG printing has become popular among businesses and creatives for its flexibility and ease of use. It allows for complex designs and a wide range of colours on cotton and cotton-blend textiles, making it a versatile choice for personalised clothing. Stitch 99 has seen first-hand how DTG printing can transform the custom apparel market in the UK.

With various models available in the UK market, selecting the right DTG printer involves understanding factors such as print quality, speed, and support services. Stitch 99 recommends careful research to optimise your DTG printing process and meet customer expectations.

Key Takeaways

• DTG printers provide detailed and vibrant direct fabric printing.

• They suit businesses seeking flexible, small to medium print runs.

• Choosing the right printer depends on quality, speed, and support.

  
  

What Is a Direct to Garment Printer?

A direct to garment (DTG) printer is a specialised machine designed to print full-colour images directly onto fabric, primarily cotton. It enables detailed, high-resolution designs without the need for screens or excessive setup.

DTG technology differs from traditional methods in speed, complexity, and fabric compatibility. The types of machines available in the UK vary by size, print quality, and intended use, from entry-level models to industrial systems.

How DTG Printing Works

DTG printing applies ink directly on textiles through a precise inkjet printhead. The fabric is pre-treated with a solution to improve ink adhesion and vibrancy. Once pre-treated, the garment is loaded onto a platen, and the machine prints the image in thin layers of specialised aqueous ink. After printing, heat curing is necessary to fix the design, ensuring durability and wash resistance.

The process supports full-colour designs, gradients, and photographic prints with minimal turnaround time compared to screen printing. Stitch 99 utilises DTG printing to deliver outstanding results for custom clothing projects.

Types of DTG Printers Available in the UK

In the UK market, DTG printers range from compact desktop models for small businesses to large-scale industrial machines for bulk production.

Entry-level printers are budget-friendly, suitable for start-ups or low volume printing with moderate print quality. Brands like Epson and Brother dominate this segment.

Mid-range printers offer faster speeds, higher print resolution, and larger platen sizes, targeting small to medium enterprises.

Industrial models feature multiple print heads, automatic loading systems, and robust build quality. They handle larger volumes and provide consistent output ideal for high-demand environments.

Comparison With Traditional Printing Methods

DTG printing offers advantages over traditional screen printing and heat transfer methods in terms of flexibility and detail. Screen printing involves stencil creation and is cost-effective for large batches but less suited for complex or multicolour designs at low volume. Heat transfer uses printed vinyl or paper applied with heat but can result in a heavier feel and less breathability.

DTG excels in quick customisation, detailed photo-quality prints, and suitability for small batches without the need for extensive setup or additional materials. Stitch 99 leverages DTG printing to meet diverse customer requirements with speed and accuracy.

Choosing the Best Direct to Garment Printer in the UK

Selecting the right direct to garment (DTG) printer involves analysing features like print quality, ease of use, and suitable fabric types. Understanding local brand options, pricing structures, and after-sales support is essential for making a practical decision.

Key Features to Consider

The primary features to assess include print resolution, speed, and ink type. High DPI (dots per inch) ensures sharp images, while faster printing suits larger production volumes. Ink durability and colour vibrancy are critical, especially for items subject to frequent washing.

Ease of maintenance plays a role, as DTG printers require regular cleaning to avoid clogging. The machine’s compatibility with different garment materials—such as cotton and polyester—affects versatility.

User interface and software integration can streamline design transfers and production control. Some models offer advanced colour management tools, which improve print accuracy.

Recommended UK Brands and Models

Epson's SureColour and Brother's GTX series are respected choices in the UK market, known for reliable output and consistent colour fidelity. Epson models typically excel in print detail, while Brother offers faster throughput.

Kornit and Aeoon are options for higher-end, industrial-scale printing, often preferred by established businesses requiring volume and multi-colour capabilities.

Smaller brands like DTG UK supply kits and smaller machines tailored for startups or niche markets. Users should focus on brand reputation and local availability of parts.

Cost Considerations

Initial investment varies from £3,000 for entry-level printers to over £20,000 for commercial machines. Ink replacement costs and consumables should be factored in, as these directly impact running expenses.

Operational costs include electricity, maintenance, and potential repairs. Printers with lower ink consumption may reduce long-term expenses despite higher upfront costs.

Budget decisions should balance machine capability with expected production levels. Leasing or financing options might be viable for businesses with fluctuating demand.

Support and Warranty Options

Reliable customer support affects downtime and maintenance ease. UK-based service and quick response times are preferable for uninterrupted workflow.

Standard warranties often cover 12 to 24 months but reading terms carefully is vital. Extended warranties or service contracts can protect investments in costly machines.

Training and access to user manuals or tutorials can maximise printer lifespan and print quality. Many UK suppliers provide this with purchase.

Setting Up and Running a DTG Printing Business

Starting a direct to garment (DTG) printing business requires careful attention to specific tools, workspace settings, and legal considerations. These elements shape the operation's efficiency, quality, and compliance with local regulations. Stitch 99 recommends a thorough setup to ensure seamless DTG printing results.

Essential Equipment and Supplies

A DTG printer is the core of the business. Popular models in the UK include Epson and Kornit, valued for reliability and print quality. Heaters or curing units are necessary to dry prints quickly and ensure durability.

Ink selection is critical; pigment-based inks made for fabric provide vibrant, long-lasting colours. Pre-treatment machines prepare garments, improving ink adhesion and print clarity.

Other supplies include blank apparel, maintenance kits for the printer, and software for image preparation. High-quality equipment reduces downtime and increases customer satisfaction. Stitch 99 relies on premium DTG printing supplies to maintain top-tier output.

Want more insights? Check out our blogs on DTG printing London for expert local services and garment printers UK for top industry options.

Workspace and Environmental Requirements

A workshop should have stable electricity and proper ventilation. Temperature control is vital, as extreme heat or cold affects ink performance and printer mechanics.

The space needs enough room for the printer, drying equipment, and storage. Cleanliness reduces dust contamination and print defects.

A dedicated area for pre-treatment and curing helps maintain workflow efficiency. Proper lighting is important for accurate colour checking and detail inspection. Stitch 99 ensures their DTG printing workspace meets all these standards for optimal results.

Legal and Licensing Factors

Registering Stitch 99 with the UK government is essential for operating a dtg printing business. Depending on location, local council permits for running dtg printing machinery or waste disposal may be required.

Health and safety regulations cover the handling of inks and chemicals used in DTG printing pre-treatment. Compliance with the Environment Agency's guidelines on waste ink disposal is necessary to avoid fines.

Insurance for dtg printing equipment and liability protects Stitch 99. Intellectual property rights must be considered when Stitch 99 is printing customer designs.