If you’re starting or growing an apparel printing business, chances are you have asked the big question more than once. DTF or DTG printing? Both methods are powerful, both are popular, and both can drive serious revenue when used correctly. The challenge is figuring out which one fits your business goals, budget, and workflow.
In our video “DTF vs DTG Printing: Which Is Better for Your Business?”, Kevin breaks it all down without the fluff. Let’s walk through the key points so you can confidently choose the right printing method for your operation.
How DTG and DTF Printing Work
DTG printing, short for Direct-to-Garment, prints ink directly onto the fabric. The ink absorbs into the fibers, creating a smooth, breathable, retail-quality finish. DTG works best on cotton or cotton-blend garments, and pretreating is required when printing on dark fabrics. The end result is a soft-hand feel that moves naturally with the garment, making it ideal for fashion-forward apparel and premium merch.
DTF printing, or Direct-to-Film, follows a different path. Designs are printed onto a special film, coated with adhesive powder, cured, and then heat-pressed onto the garment. The big advantage here is flexibility. DTF transfers can be applied to cotton, polyester, blends, nylon, and more. No pretreatment is required, and transfers can be printed in advance and stored for later use.
Product Versatility and Print Quality
When it comes to versatility, DTF printing clearly stands out. Being able to decorate almost any fabric opens the door to more product offerings like hoodies, performance wear, workwear, and specialty items. DTF is also a strong option for repeat designs since transfers can be printed in bulk and applied on demand.
DTF prints do sit on top of the fabric, which can result in a slightly thicker feel. That said, modern DTF systems have come a long way. Techniques like halftoning can soften the hand feel and bring it closer to what you would expect from DTG printing.
DTG printing truly shines when premium quality matters most. The ink penetrates the fabric, resulting in a softer and more natural texture. This makes DTG the go-to choice for high-end cotton apparel, fashion brands, and retail-quality garments where comfort is just as important as design.
Cost, Equipment, and Production Time
Cost is often the deciding factor, so let’s break it down simply.
DTG printers range widely in price. Entry-level models start around $6,000 to $7,000, while professional units can reach $60,000. The average DTG printer lands around $15,000. Depending on your setup, you may also need a pretreatment machine, which typically costs around $5,000. A heat press is required as well and generally runs between $1,500 and $4,000.
DTF setups usually require more equipment. A professional DTF printer typically costs between $15,000 and $30,000. A powder shaker and oven combo adds another $7,000 to $15,000. Like DTG, a heat press is also required.
In total, a DTG setup usually falls between $15,000 and $22,000, while a proper DTF setup ranges from $20,000 to $32,000.
Consumables also matter. DTG ink is more expensive and uses a pretreatment solution, while DTF uses film and adhesive powder but less expensive ink. Overall, DTG consumables tend to cost less than DTF consumables.
Where DTF really shines is speed. Roll-to-roll DTF printing allows for fast batch production and scalable workflows. DTG is slower per piece, making it better suited for print-on-demand or smaller runs.
Which Printing Method Is Right for You?
If your focus is premium cotton apparel with a soft, high-end feel, DTG printing remains the top choice. If you need flexibility, faster production, and the ability to print on a wide variety of materials, DTF printing is hard to beat. Many successful print shops use both methods together, treating them as complementary tools rather than competitors!
If you’re looking for flexibility without committing to two separate systems, Epson also offers hybrid DTG and DTF solutions like the Epson SureColor F1070 and F2270. These combo-capable printers make it easier to expand your capabilities, test new revenue streams, and grow at your own pace without overcomplicating your setup. Learn more about Epson DTF and DTG printer options here: https://www.itsupplies.com/epson-direct-to-film-printers
IT Supplies is your one-stop shop for everything you need to achieve the perfect print. We partner with top manufacturers to bring you the best in printing technology, including Eco-Solvent, Latex, UV, and Aqueous printers from EPSON, HP, and Canon. Our lineup also features a wide selection of Dye-Sublimation, DTF, and DTG printers from EPSON and HP. Explore our full range at www.itsupplies.com or by giving us a call at 1-800-771-9665!
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