DTG Blog

DTG vs Screen Printing: Quick Breakdown

Screen printing is the most commonly used technique for printing designs on textiles.  It's a versatile process that can be used for large or small runs, and it produces high-quality prints with bright colors and intricate detail.  However, screen printing can be expensive, especially if you need to order a screen for each color in your design.

DTG printing is a newer technology that allows you to print directly onto garments without going through a screen printer.  This process uses special dye-sublimation inks that are applied into a pre-designed image by a computer system.  The inks become part of the fabric, allowing for vibrant colors and exceptional detail.  DTG printing is also known as spot or direct to garment printing because it prints only what is needed instead of making a screen as screen printers do.

What Are The Differences Between Screen Printing & DTG?

Screen printing works by screen filler squeegee screen printing ink screen mesh screen, then transferring the image to garment using heat and/or pressure.

DTG Printing is a sublimation technique that allows you to print on textiles directly, without going through a screen printer.  The DTG printer uses special dye-sublimation inks that are applied into a pre-designed image by a digital printing system.  The inks become part of the fabric, allowing for vibrant colors and exceptional detail.  It's also known as spot or direct to garment printing because it prints only what is needed instead of making a screen as screen printers do.

What are the benefits of DTG printing?

DTG printing offers a number of benefits over traditional screenprinting, including:

-Prints images with incredible detail and clarity

-No set-up costs or screen charges

-Prints on a variety of fabrics, not just cotton

-Produces less waste than screen printing

-Can print small quantities without additional cost