// Service 001 — DTG
Direct-to-Garment.
Photo-quality prints.
At INKFOLD, we specialize in Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing, offering vibrant, durable prints on a wide range of apparel. Our state-of-the-art equipment and expert techniques ensure that your designs are brought to life with exceptional clarity and color accuracy.
// What is DTG?
What is DTG Printing?
Direct to garment (DTG) printing uses water-based CMYK ink to print your digital artwork directly onto a garment. DTG is the perfect print method for designs with high color, transparency, gradients, and photorealistic images. The main difference between DTG and screen printing is that DTG prints any transparency or color blends smoothly, whereas screen printing replicates effects with halftone dots.
We use one of the highest quality Brother DTG print machines available on the market today. Our machine allows us to print jumbo-sized graphics up to 16×20″ with pinpoint accuracy. For the best print results, we recommend 100% cotton garments.
// Why INKFOLD
Why Choose INKFOLD for DTG Printing?
Vibrant and Detailed Prints
Our DTG printers produce prints with stunning detail and color vibrancy, perfect for photorealistic images and intricate designs.
No Glossy Finish
We use a special ink curing method that allows our prints to last just as long as screen prints with proper care, without the glossy and slick finish often associated with heat-pressed inks.
Versatility
DTG printing is ideal for small orders, complex designs, and detailed artwork, making it perfect for custom apparel with multiple colors and gradients.
Eco-Friendly Inks
We use eco-friendly, water-based inks that are safe for the environment and produce soft, breathable prints.
// Specs
- Print area16" × 20"
- ColorsUnlimited (CMYK)
- InkWater-based, OEKO-TEX certified
- Turnaround15–20 business days
- Minimum order24 pieces per design
- Min. fabric100% cotton recommended
// Best for
- Photo-realistic designs
- Detailed illustrations
- Small runs and one-offs
- Soft 100% cotton tees
- Gradients and fine text
- Transparent artwork
// FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What's your turnaround time?
Average DTG production time is 15–20 business days. Production time starts once the invoice is paid in full and we have all blanks on hand. The more services/add-ons required for your project, the potentially longer the turnaround time.
What's your minimum?
DTG starts at 24 pieces per design.
Do you offer samples?
Yes, you can place a sample order with us. We highly recommend samples for designs with more complicated artwork or if you are particular about colors. DTG reacts differently to different types of garments, so testing is advisable.
What's the difference between DTG and screen print?
DTG uses water-based CMYK ink, while screen printing uses plastisol ink. DTG is ideal for highly detailed or photorealistic prints and replicates the original digital image more closely compared to screen printing.
How accurate are DTG colors?
DTG uses the CMYK process, blending cyan, magenta, yellow, and black to create over 16,000 colors. We recommend changing the color mode in your graphics editor software to CMYK to see what your graphic will look like when printed with DTG.
Why should I use DTG printing?
DTG captures all the detail and color in your original artwork, including transparency. It is also faster than screen printing because there is minimal setup involved, and DTG sampling is great for print size/placement reference.
How long do the prints last?
With proper care, DTG prints last just as long as screen-printed garments. We recommend turning shirts inside out, machine washing cold, and hang drying to maintain prints. Avoid using harsh detergents and bleach.
Can I mix screen print with DTG?
It is not recommended due to color variance between DTG ink and screen print ink. For consistency, it is best to use one print type for a single design.
// Inquiry
Request a DTG Quote
Tell us about your project and we'll get back to you with pricing and next steps within one business day.
Get Started Today
Ready to bring your designs to life with DTG printing? Contact us to discuss your project and explore our capabilities. At INKFOLD, we're dedicated to providing high-quality, custom apparel that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.