DTF vs. DTG Printing: Which Technology Makes Sense for Your Business?

Custom apparel printing has never been more accessible. Whether you're a print shop expanding services, a promotional products company, or a business looking to bring merchandise in-house, two technologies dominate the conversation: Direct-to-Film (DTF) and Direct-to-Garment (DTG).

Both produce vibrant, full-color prints on textiles. But they work differently, cost differently, and serve different business models. Understanding the distinction helps you invest in the right equipment for your goals.

How DTG Printing Works

Direct-to-Garment printing sprays ink directly onto fabric, similar to how an inkjet printer applies ink to paper. The garment is loaded onto a platen, pretreated if necessary, and printed in a single pass. The ink bonds with the fibers and is heat-cured for durability.

DTG excels at detailed, photographic prints on cotton and cotton-blend fabrics. It's ideal for on-demand production—print one shirt or twenty with no setup changes. The limitation is fabric compatibility. DTG works best on 100% cotton and struggles with polyester and synthetic blends.

How DTF Printing Works

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Direct-to-Film takes a different approach. The design is printed onto a special PET film, coated with adhesive powder, cured, and then heat-transferred onto the garment. The transfer adheres to virtually any fabric—cotton, polyester, blends, nylon, leather, and more.

DTF transfers can be produced in batches and stored for later application, making it efficient for high-volume or repeat orders. The prints are durable, stretch with the fabric, and maintain vibrancy through washing.

Comparing the Economics

DTG typically has higher ink costs per print but requires no consumable transfer film. It's cost-effective for small runs of cotton garments where quick turnaround matters.

DTF has lower per-print costs at scale and greater fabric versatility. The ability to pre-produce transfers and apply them on demand reduces labor bottlenecks during busy periods.

For businesses serving diverse customers with varied fabric requests, DTF often delivers better return on investment. For cotton-focused shops prioritizing print quality and simplicity, DTG remains competitive.

White Toner: The Third Option

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White toner transfer printing offers another path, particularly for hard surfaces and specialty applications. UNINET's iColor systems produce transfers for apparel, promotional products, signage, and packaging—all from a single device. For businesses wanting maximum versatility without multiple machines, white toner technology deserves consideration.

Making the Right Choice

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The best technology depends on your product mix, volume, and customer base. A promotional products company serving corporate clients may need different capabilities than a custom t-shirt shop serving local sports teams.

CCLM Supply works with businesses across Southern Indiana and Louisville to match equipment to real-world needs. We carry DTF, DTG, and white toner solutions from trusted manufacturers and provide local service and support.

Schedule a consultation to see these technologies in action. Call 812.800.8316 or request a quote online.