How DTG Printing Works
The DTG process follows a precise workflow to ensure quality and durability:
- Garment preparation
The garment (typically cotton or cotton-rich blends) is laid flat and pre-treated with a solution that helps the ink bond to the fibres.
- Pre-treatment curing
The pre-treatment is heat-cured to create an even surface and improve colour vibrancy, especially on darker garments.
- Direct printing
The DTG printer applies water-based CMYK inks directly onto the garment, accurately reproducing fine details and colour transitions.
- Final curing
The printed garment is heat-cured to set the ink and ensure wash durability.
This process allows for consistent results without the setup time associated with traditional screen printing.
Key Features of DTG Printing
- High detail and colour accuracy
DTG excels at reproducing intricate designs, small text, gradients, and photographic images.
- No minimum order quantities
Ideal for one-off prints, small runs, or test batches.
- Soft hand feel
Because the ink absorbs into the fabric rather than sitting on top, DTG prints feel smooth and breathable.
- Fast setup
No screens or plates are required, reducing setup time for short runs.
Benefits for Australian Businesses
For Australian organisations and brands, DTG printing offers several practical advantages:
- Cost-effective for small orders
DTG is often more economical than screen printing for low quantities, such as staff uniforms, promotional samples, or limited campaigns.
- Flexibility for customisation
Individual names, numbers, or unique designs can be printed without additional setup costs.
- On-demand production
Suitable for just-in-time printing, reducing excess stock and storage needs.
- Eco-conscious inks
DTG uses water-based inks, aligning with sustainability goals increasingly important to Australian businesses.
Common DTG Use Cases
DTG printing is commonly used for:
- Branded t-shirts for events and promotions
- Small business merchandise
- Staff uniforms with detailed logos
- Creative or artistic designs
- Online stores offering personalised apparel
It is especially effective when design complexity is high and order volume is low to medium.
Fabric Suitability and Durability
DTG performs best on 100% cotton or cotton-rich blends. While it can be used on some blended fabrics, polyester-heavy garments may result in reduced colour vibrancy.
A properly cured DTG print will hold up well with regular wear and washing. To maximise lifespan, garments should be washed inside out in cold water and air-dried where possible.
DTG vs Other Printing Methods
Compared to screen printing, DTG is better for short runs and complex artwork, while screen printing remains more cost-effective for large bulk orders with simple designs. DTG also differs from heat transfer methods by offering a softer feel and more natural integration with the fabric.
Is DTG Right for Your Project?
DTG printing is an excellent option when quality, detail, and flexibility matter more than high-volume efficiency. For Australian businesses looking for professional, reliable custom apparel with minimal setup and exceptional print clarity, DTG is a proven solution within the modern garment printing landscape.
