DTG vs DTF vs Sublimation Printing: What Are the Differences?

Apparel printing is a growing industry evolving with changes in printing technology, especially with the rise of direct-to-garment printing, dye sublimation, and other printing methods that deliver high-quality prints for custom apparel. Diverse types of printers, diverse types of ink, and different methods for transferring the image to the garment are crucial factors in your product's quality and what you can produce. The 3 main types of apparel printing are DTG (Direct-to-Garment), DTF (Direct-to-Film), and sublimation. Here is a comparison to help you understand the differences between them so that you can choose the right printing method for your business needs.

DTG Printing (Direct To Garment)

Direct-to-garment printing works just as the name suggests: The printer prints the image directly onto the fabric. No film or transfer paper is required; however, the garment does need to be pretreated to ensure that the image transfers properly. Modern DTG printers have advanced capabilities that support detailed prints, making them ideal for creating custom apparel with intricate designs. DTG printing requires a specific type of ink and is usually best when printed on cotton fabric. If you're considering DTG vs. other options, it's essential to evaluate the texture and longevity of your prints.

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DTF Printing (Direct To Film)

Direct-to-film, or film-to-garment printing, involves printing the image onto a film first, then transferring the image from the film to the fabric. This printing process produces vibrant images and is an excellent alternative to direct-to-garment printing when working with various materials. DTF printing does not require any pretreatment of the fabric, but it does require a powder to be applied after the image is transferred onto the film to prevent the ink from running or streaking. In comparing DTG vs. DTF, many businesses prefer DTF for its versatility and ability to work without pretreatment.

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Sublimation Printing

Sublimation printing, or dye sublimation, uses a unique printing process different from direct-to-garment printing and DTF. Instead of liquid ink being printed onto fabric or film, a solid ink substance transitions from a solid state directly to a gas without ever becoming a liquid. The image is printed onto transfer paper and then transferred to the fabric. The heat press turns the solid ink into gas, allowing it to fuse seamlessly with polyester fabrics for long-lasting, high-quality prints. Dye sublimation is particularly effective when used with sublimation printers explicitly designed for printing on polyester fabrics, and works well with any standard inkjet printer or desktop printer setup.

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Important Factors in Choosing the Right Printing Methods 

When it comes to deciding which type of apparel printing is right for your business or the project at hand, consider the following factors for print quality: 

• Fabric color: The dye sublimation process works better on lighter-colored polyester fabrics because the ink integrates into the fibers. DTG is a better printing method for black or dark colors. Screen printing is the most suitable printing technique for t-shirt printing.

• Range of colors in the image: Sublimation has some color limitations, and it is predominantly white. If your artwork contains white or light colors, you may choose DTG or DTF instead of dye sublimation. 

• Type of fabric: DTF printing works on any fabric type, direct-to-garment printing is best for cotton, and dye sublimation excels on polyester fabrics. 

• Size of the order: If you need to print many items quickly, DTG printing is often the best option because it is faster. However, the pretreatment process can be time-consuming, so if you have an urgent order, consider experimenting with DTF or sublimation. When comparing screen printing with dye sublimation, the latter offers greater flexibility for small-batch orders without compromising color accuracy.

• Texture of the final product: The image on a DTG product tends to feel rougher as the ink bonds with the fabric, whereas DTF feels smoother and more plastic. A sublimation-printed image feels the same as the rest of the fabric. You wouldn’t know it was there if you closed your eyes and felt the garment. Some businesses compare DTG vs. dye sublimation for texture — dye sublimation gives a smoother finish that feels part of the fabric.

Where to Get a DTG Printer, DTF Printer & Sublimation Printer With Inks

To start your custom apparel business, you'll need reliable tools like a garment printer, an inkjet printer, and quality supplies. AllPrintHeads.com carries a wide range of DTG printers, sublimation printers, and heat press equipment to support all printing process setups. All Printheads is your comprehensive source for all printing needs, equipping your business with the tools for success. Whether you prefer screen printing, direct-to-garment printing, dye sublimation, or other printing methods, AllPrintHeads.com supplies everything you need to produce custom apparel with professional results.