DTF VS DTG / What’s the Difference?
- Pitsinee Pannasuriyaporn
- Jul 20
- 1 min read
When it comes to garment printing, DTF (Direct to Film) and DTG (Direct to Garment) are two popular methods — each with its own strengths and limitations.

DTF (Direct to Film)
How it works:
The design is printed onto a special film and then transferred onto fabric using heat and adhesive powder.
Pros:
Works on almost all fabric types (cotton, polyester, blends, etc.)
Vivid colors, including on dark fabrics
Durable and stretch-resistant
Easy to print in bulk or on demand
Cons:
Can feel slightly rubbery or thick on the fabric
Requires more steps (print → powder → heat press)


DTG (Direct to Garment)
How it works:
The design is printed directly onto the fabric using an inkjet printer, mostly on cotton.
Pros:
Soft, breathable feel (inks soak into the fibers)
High-resolution, detailed prints
Great for complex, colorful artwork
Cons:
Best on 100% cotton only
Not ideal for synthetic fabrics
May fade faster with repeated washes (especially on dark colors)


In summary, choosing the right printing technique depends on several factors such as the type of fabric, production quantity, and design complexity. By considering these aspects, we can select the most suitable method for each garment.
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