Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, pioneered in Florida in 1996, is a popular custom clothing printing method. It has gained widespread usage globally, alongside traditional screen printing. Offering color flexibility, it’s ideal for those seeking full-color custom t-shirts without meeting screen printing minimums.
While the cost per unit is higher and may not suit bulk orders, DTG printing brings benefits compared to standard screen printing. It excels in producing full-color custom prints on a smaller scale. The method is limitless in terms of color possibilities, bringing any design or color combo to life. It works best on natural fabrics like cotton and is not recommended for synthetics.
The DTG Printing Process
Screen printing uses multiple screens for each color, while direct-to-garment (DTG) resembles a standard printer.
During the process of DTG printing, colored garments receive pre-treatment before design application, enhancing ink bond for durability. White cotton garments do not require a pretreatment, reducing costs for these items. DTG employs specialized inkjet technology, applying screen printing ink via the print head. Designs are then cured and smoothed using a heat press.
Note: Pre-treatment and pressing may cause temporary square marks post-production, which washing removes.
DTG delivers vivid, colorful, and lasting designs!
Setting up a DTG order
To provide you with an accurate estimate for your DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printing order, we need some specific details from you. Please follow these steps:
- Share the artwork you’d like to print.
- Specify the garment type, color, and size you prefer for each item.
- Let us know the requested print size.
- Indicate the quantities you need.
Our DTG printing is exclusively done on cotton garments. Dark-colored items require pre-treatment and an underbase, while white garments don’t.
Here’s a general overview of our pricing brackets per design (If printing multiple designs, please note that the price breaks apply to the quantity of each matching setup and not varying prints.):
- Up to 12 items
- 13 to 23 items
- 24 to 36 items
- 37 to 72 items (*Note: This option may only be available for light-colored items, as pre-treatment can add extra time.)
DTG pricing is determined by ink usage, not color count as in traditional screen printing. It may vary based on the size of your desired graphic.
We prefer working with files openable in Photoshop or Illustrator, ideally at 300 to 600 dpi, and PNG file format. If your image is already sized in inches for printing, that’s very helpful too.
You can share these details on the request page or email us directly. Once we have all the necessary information, we’ll provide you with a customized quote.
Depending if DTG or traditional screen printing will suit your needs best, will pick the best printing process for you based on the shirt color and graphic provided by you! Request a quote today!
COMPANY INFORMATION
Mike Digregorio is the sole owner of Porkchop LLC
Rachel Lush is the General Manager
