You've probably seen direct-to-garment (DTG) printing before, but what is it, and how does it work?
DTG printing is a type of digital printing that directly prints images onto fabric. This makes it a popular choice for printing on t-shirts, sweatshirts, and other clothing items.
In this post, we'll explain what DTG printing is and how it works, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of using this printing method.
What Is DTG Printing?
DTG printing is a type of digital printing that allows for the printing of images onto textiles and garments. It's an increasingly popular way to print T-shirts, sweatshirts, hats and other clothing items, and is often used for small-runs and personalization.
So how does it work? DTG printing works by using a specialized printer to print the image directly onto the fabric. This means that there is no need for additional production steps like screen printing or embroidery, making it a more cost-effective option for smaller runs.
The Benefits of DTG Printing
DTG printing, or Direct-To-Garment printing, is a newer printing technology that is growing in popularity. Here are some of the benefits of DTG printing:
- DTG printing is great for printing small quantities of shirts.
- DTG printers are able to print high-quality images on a wide range of fabrics.
- DTG printing is very affordable, and the cost per shirt is much lower than with traditional methods such as screen printing.
- Printing time is much shorter with DTG printers, so you can get your shirts faster.
- There is no setup fee or minimum order requirement with DTG printers, so it's a great option for small businesses and startups.
The Difference Between DTG and Traditional Printing Methods
DTG printing is a relatively new printing method that offers a lot of advantages over traditional printing methods. Here are a few key differences:
- DTG printers use inkjet technology, which means that the print quality is much higher than with other printing methods.
- DTG printers can print on a wider range of materials, including cotton, polyester and even leather.
- The turnaround time for DTG printing is much shorter than for traditional printing methods.
- DTG printers are more affordable than traditional printers.
How to Choose the Right DTG Printer
When it comes to choosing a DTG printer, there are a few factors you need to take into account. The most important thing is to make sure the printer is compatible with your software and computer system. You'll also need to consider the size of the printer, how often you'll be using it, and the type of garments you'll be printing on.
If you're just starting out, it might be a good idea to opt for a smaller printer that's easy to use and doesn't require much setup time. Take a look at EPSON and Brother brand of printers which are a lot more accessible that our Kornit Atlas. If you're planning to use your printer regularly, however, you'll need to choose one that has a larger printing area so you can print multiple shirts at once. And lastly, make sure to choose a printer that prints on the types of garments you want to use, whether it's dark or light clothing, cotton or polyester.
How to Care for Your DTG Printer
Now that you understand the basics of DTG printing, it's time to learn how to care for your printer. As with any other piece of equipment, it's important to keep your DTG printer in good condition if you want it to last. Here are a few tips on how to do that:
- Keep your printer in a cool, dry place. This will help to prevent the ink from drying out and clogging the print head.
- Do not expose your printer to direct sunlight or extreme heat. This can cause the ink to fade and the print head to overheat.
- Make sure the printer is always level when you're printing. Uneven printing can cause the ink to smudge and distort the image.
- You it! Serioously, printing every day makes maintenance much easier since non-use is what kills a DTG printer especially jet and tube line clogging.
Tips for Troubleshooting Your DTG Printer
If you're having trouble with your DTG printer, don't worry, you're not alone! These machines can be a little tricky to operate, but with a little patience and these handy tips, you should be able to troubleshoot most problems.
First things first, always make sure that you're using the correct type of ink and that the cartridge is properly installed. If the printer isn't printing correctly, it's often because of a dirty print head. To clean it, use a soft cloth or a cotton ball dipped in isopropyl alcohol. Be sure to avoid getting any alcohol on the sensors, as this can damage the printer.
If you're still having trouble getting your printer to work correctly, contact the manufacturer for support. They should be able to help you resolve the issue.
Summary
DTG printing is a great way to create customized T-shirts, hoodies, and other types of clothing. You can create your own designs or choose from a range of templates.
DTG printing is perfect for small businesses, event organizers, and anyone who wants to create personalized clothing.
To learn more about DTG printing and how it can work for you, visit our website today.
