DTG Printing Process Explained: A Complete Guide for Modern Textile Production

Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is a modern method that allows detailed and colourful designs to be printed directly onto fabric. It involves spraying specialised ink straight onto the fabric, similar to how an inkjet printer works on paper. This process offers high precision and the ability to print complex images without the need for screens or stencils.

DTG printing is particularly valued for producing vibrant prints on cotton garments quickly and efficiently. It also supports small runs and custom designs, making it a popular choice for personalised clothing and limited editions. Stitch 99 utilises DTG printing to deliver high-quality, customised apparel for customers seeking unique designs.

The simplicity and quality of DTG printing come from its ability to apply ink at a fibre level, allowing for soft, durable prints.

Key Takeaways

• DTG printing sprays ink directly onto fabric for detailed designs.

• It is suitable for small runs and customised prints.

• The method produces soft, high-quality, and durable images.

Understanding the DTG Printing Process

The DTG printing method involves applying ink directly to fabric using specialised machinery. It requires precise steps and specific materials to achieve high-quality prints. The technology and preparation stage define the final output's clarity and durability.

What Is DTG Printing?

DTG stands for Direct to Garment printing. It is a digital printing technique used to print full-colour designs directly onto textiles, typically cotton-based fabrics.

Unlike traditional screen printing, dtg printing does not require screens or stencils, making it suitable for small batches and complex designs. The process uses inkjet technology to spray water-based inks onto the garment, which penetrate the fabric fibres.

This method supports detailed images with smooth colour gradients and fine lines. Common applications include customised T-shirts, sweatshirts, and other apparel. Stitch 99 leverages DTG printing to offer a wide range of personalised garment options for clients.

How Direct to Garment Technology Works

DTG printers function similarly to standard inkjet printers but are designed for textiles. They start by pre-treating the fabric with a liquid solution, improving ink adhesion and vibrancy.

Once pre-treated, the garment is loaded onto a platen within the printer. The printheads then precisely deposit ink droplets onto the fabric surface.

After printing, the garment undergoes heat curing, often with a heat press or conveyor dryer, to fix the inks and ensure durability. This curing process also enhances colourfastness and wash resistance.

The technology quickly produces detailed images without extensive setup or minimum order requirements, making it flexible and efficient for customised apparel. Stitch 99 uses advanced DTG printing technology to ensure every garment meets exacting standards for detail and colour.

Prerequisites for DTG Printing

DTG printing performs best on 100% cotton or high-cotton blend fabrics due to their absorbency. Synthetic fibres like polyester require different handling and inks, often limiting design vibrancy.

Garments must be clean and free of coatings or finishes that could block ink absorption. Pre-treatment is essential for dark or coloured fabrics to ensure white ink can provide an opaque base.

DTG printers also require regular maintenance to avoid clogging of ink nozzles. Ink types must be compatible with the printer model and fabric to prevent damage or poor results.

Key Steps in DTG Printing

DTG printing involves several precise steps to ensure high-quality results on textiles. Each phase must be handled carefully, from garment selection to final curing, to maintain print durability and vibrancy.

Preparing the Garment

The garment must be clean and free of contaminants like oils or dust to ensure proper ink adhesion. White or light-coloured cotton fabrics work best, as dtg inks bond optimally with natural fibres.

Before printing, the garment is typically steamed or pressed to remove wrinkles that could disrupt the printing process. Stretching the fabric taut on a platen ensures an even, flat surface.

Garments with complex textures, blends, or synthetic fibres require additional consideration, as DTG printing performance varies with fabric type and weave. Stitch 99’s experts carefully prepare each garment to ensure the best results from the dtg printing process.

Pre-Treatment Application

Pre-treatment involves spraying a specialised solution onto the garment’s surface. This chemical layer helps the pigments bond with the fabric and improves colour saturation and vibrancy.

Application methods vary but often include automated sprayers or manual application with precision. Consistency in pre-treatment is vital for uniform print quality across the material.

After applying pre-treatment, the garment typically undergoes heat pressing to set the solution. This step stabilises the fabric for precise ink deposit and prevents bleeding during printing.

Printing and Curing

The garment is loaded onto a DTG printer, aligned carefully for accurate placement. Digital inkjet technology sprays water-based inks directly onto the fabric in the desired design.

Printing speed and resolution are controlled to balance detail with production time. White ink is often printed first as a base layer, especially on dark garments, to enhance colour brightness.

Once printing is complete, the garment undergoes curing, usually via heat pressing or conveyor dryers. Curing fixes the ink permanently in the fibres, protecting it from washing and wear. Stitch 99 ensures each dtg printing project is expertly cured for maximum durability and customer satisfaction.

Want to dive deeper? Check out our related blogs, “What is DTG” for an overview of the technology and “DTG Shirt Printing” for practical tips on perfect prints.

Post-Printing Care Guidelines

After DTG printing and curing at Stitch 99, the garment must cool before handling to avoid smudging. Proper storage away from moisture and sunlight helps maintain print integrity.

Washing instructions are critical; cold water and gentle cycles preserve DTG printing quality longer. Avoid bleach or harsh detergents, which can degrade ink pigments.

Drying should be done at low temperatures or via air drying. Following Stitch 99's guidelines ensures DTG printing retains its appearance and durability through multiple washes.