DTF vs DTG Printing: An Honest Comparison
We run both DTF and DTG presses daily, so this comparison has no horse in the race — we'll use whichever suits your job.
DTF — direct to film
Your design is printed onto a film, coated with adhesive powder, then heat-pressed onto the garment. The result is a vibrant, slightly raised print that works on any colour and any fabric — cotton, polyester, blends, even nylon.
- Best for: bold colours, dark garments, polyester sportswear, same-day jobs
- Feel: a thin flexible layer you can feel with a fingertip
- Durability: excellent — typically 50+ washes without cracking
DTG — direct to garment
Ink is sprayed directly into the fabric, like a photo printer for T-shirts. On cotton the ink becomes part of the fabric, so the print has almost no feel and handles photographic detail and subtle gradients beautifully.
- Best for: photos, detailed art, soft-feel premium tees
- Feel: virtually none on light garments
- Durability: very good, though fine detail softens gently over many washes
Which should you pick?
Honestly — leave it to us. Choose your garment and upload your design, and we'll print it with the method that will look best and last longest. If you have a strong preference, add a note at checkout and we'll follow it.