DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printing is a high-quality printing method where your artwork is printed directly onto the fabric, similar to how an inkjet printer works - but designed specifically for garments.
It’s a popular choice for full-colour designs, detailed artwork, and smaller print runs where screen printing isn’t ideal.
What Is DTG Printing?
DTG printing uses specialist garment printers to apply water-based inks directly into the fabric. The print is then cured with heat to lock in colour and durability.
Because the design is printed digitally:
There’s no screen setup
Full-colour artwork is easy
Small orders are more cost-effective than screen printing
When DTG Printing Is the Best Choice
DTG works best when:
You need high detail (fine lines, gradients, photo prints).
Your design uses multiple colours.
You are ordering small to medium quantities.
You want a soft, breathable print finish.
You want to print directly onto premium cotton garments.
DTG is commonly used for:
Event shirts
Promo tees
Corporate samples
Small business branded apparel
When DTG Printing Is NOT the Best Option
DTG may not be ideal when:
You are ordering very large quantities (60–100+).
The design is very simple and repeated.
You want the lowest cost per shirt at scale.
In these situations, screen printing often becomes more economical.
For fast turnaround on mixed fabric types or synthetic garments, DTF printing may be better suited.
DTG vs Other Printing Methods
DTG vs DTF
DTG prints directly onto cotton garments
DTF transfers the design from film onto more garment types (including blends)
DTG is often chosen for a softer, premium finish on cotton tees, while DTF is more versatile for urgent or multi-garment orders.
DTG vs Screen Printing
DTG has low setup cost, ideal for smaller runs
Screen printing becomes cheaper at higher quantities
DTG Pricing (How It Works)
DTG pricing is influenced by:
Garment type and brand
Number of print positions (front only vs. front + back)
Print size (small chest vs. large back print)
Quantity
Turnaround time (standard vs. urgent)
Real pricing tables and examples are available on DTG pricing pages.
Urgent DTG Printing
DTG can also be suitable for urgent orders depending on:
Garment availability
Artwork readiness
Production queue
Urgent printing generally costs more than standard turnaround pricing.
How to Order DTG Printed Shirts
To order DTG printed garments, you’ll usually need:
Quantity of Tee shirts and size breakdown
Garment type and style. Ex: AS Colour as the brand, Staple Tee as the style
Print locations (front/back/sleeves)
Print size in cm
Required date
Pickup or delivery preference
Artwork files (high resolution / print-ready)
A step-by-step DTG ordering page will guide you through the exact workflow.
