[Blog] Custom t-shirts
DTG or DTF: which to choose?
Two digital printing techniques now dominate custom apparel. They look similar on paper, but they don't give the same result. Here's how to choose, and what we recommend for each type of project.
DTG: ink straight into the fabric
With DTG (Direct to Garment), a textile printer applies ink directly onto the garment. The ink soaks into the fibres, so the print becomes part of the t-shirt. Dark garments are pre-treated first and get a white underbase so the colours stand out.
The result: a very soft feel, almost imperceptible, a t-shirt that stays breathable, and excellent reproduction of photos and gradients. DTG performs best on cotton.
DTF: a film transfer
With DTF (Direct to Film), the design is printed onto a film, coated with an adhesive powder, then transferred to the garment with a heat press.
The result: very vivid colours, a highly opaque white, crisp edges and great versatility. DTF works on cotton, polyester, blends, and even bags or caps. The trade-off: the print forms a thin layer on the surface, slightly less supple on very large solid areas.
Side by side
| Criterion | DTG | DTF |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Very soft, part of the fabric | Thin layer on the surface |
| Fabrics | Ideal on cotton | Cotton, polyester, blends, accessories |
| On dark garments | Good, with a white underbase | Excellent, very vivid colours |
| Photos and gradients | Excellent | Very good |
| Logos and fine text | Good | Excellent, very crisp edges |
| Large designs | Comfortable to wear | Stiffer on large solid areas |
| Wash durability | Good with proper care | Very good |
| Small runs | Yes | Yes |
Our view: which one to pick?
There's no absolute winner, but a few simple rules:
- Choose DTG for a large artistic or photographic design on a cotton t-shirt. The result is soft, breathable and premium.
- Choose DTF for a logo, text or crisp design, on technical fabrics (polyester sports jerseys), on dark colours or on a mix of items.
- For most orders from businesses, clubs and events (logos, small runs, several t-shirt colours), DTF is often the most versatile choice.
Large, soft design on cotton: DTG. Crisp logo, polyester or dark garment: DTF.
What about screen printing?
For large quantities of the same design with few colours, traditional screen printing can become more economical. For small and medium runs, multi-colour or personalised designs (a name or number on each piece), DTG and DTF are far more flexible. We'll point you to the best option for your project.
Caring for a printed t-shirt
- Wash it inside out at 30 °C.
- Avoid hot tumble drying.
- Never iron directly on the print.
Your custom t-shirts in Valais
We design the artwork and produce your t-shirts with DTG or DTF printing, from CHF 35 per piece (t-shirt and one printed design). Discover our custom t-shirts service and all our prices.
Frequently asked questions
Does a DTF print crack over time?
A quality DTF transfer that's pressed properly holds up very well in the wash. Cracking mostly comes from poor application or the wrong care, such as a very hot tumble dryer or ironing over the design.
Does DTG work on a black t-shirt?
Yes, thanks to pre-treatment and a white underbase. On black, colours are slightly less vivid than with DTF, but the feel stays softer.
Can you print small quantities?
Yes. DTG and DTF need no screens or costly set-up, which makes them well suited to small runs and personalised pieces.
