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Direct to garment printing
DTG printing is a relatively new technology in the world of textile printing. It first appeared in the early 2000s when the first commercial DTG printers were introduced. These machines were inspired by traditional inkjet printers but adapted to print directly on fabric.
The breakthrough came in 2005 when the first fully digital DTG printers became more widely available, making it possible to print detailed designs directly onto garments without screens or setup time. Over the years, the technology has continued to improve in speed, color accuracy and print quality. Today, DTG is a popular choice for brands, artists and anyone who wants to create custom clothing on demand.
Is DTG printing good quality
In the early days, DTG prints often lacked sharpness, struggled with bright colors and didn’t hold up well after multiple washes. Printing on dark fabrics was especially tricky, often resulting in dull or faded images. But thanks to major improvements in printer technology, ink formulations and pre-treatment methods, the quality of DTG prints has come a long way.
Today’s DTG printers produce sharp, high-resolution images with vibrant colors and better wash durability. White ink has become more opaque and reliable, making it much easier to print bold designs on black or colored garments. The prints feel soft to the touch and remain flexible, even after frequent wear and washing. What used to be a solution mainly for samples or small batches is now a professional option for full retail production.
Benefits of direct-to-garment (DTG) printing
DTG printing offers many benefits, making it a popular choice for custom apparel:
- Full-color printing with unlimited detail: you can print complex, multicolor designs without extra costs for each color.
- No minimum order quantity: DTG is perfect for single pieces or small batches, ideal for startups and artists.
- Fast turnaround time: without the need for screens or setup, printing is quicker and more efficient.
- Eco-friendly inks: most DTG printers use water-based inks that are less harmful to the environment.
- Customization and on-demand printing: create personalized garments easily, reducing waste and storage costs.
DTG printing process
DTG printing uses a specialized inkjet printer that applies water-based inks directly onto fabric. Before printing, the garment is pre-treated with a solution that helps the ink bond better to the fibers and ensures vibrant colors.
Once pre-treated, the clothing is loaded into the DTG printer, which sprays the ink in precise, tiny droplets according to the digital design. After printing, the garment goes through a heat press or curing process to fix the ink, making the print durable and washable.
This process allows for highly detailed, full-color images with smooth gradients and sharp lines without the need for screens or stencils like in traditional printing methods.
What is direct to garment printing vs AOP printing
Direct to Garment (DTG) and All-Over Printing (AOP) are both modern techniques used to print custom designs on clothing, but they differ in how they work and how the garments are produced.
DTG Printing (DTG) is a method where a design is printed directly onto the surface of a finished garment, like a T-shirt or hoodie, using a specialized inkjet printer. The ink soaks into the fabric and produces a high-quality, full-color print with fine detail and a soft feel.
All-Over Printing (AOP), on the other hand, is used to cover the entire surface of a garment — including front, back, sleeves, and seams — with one continuous design. The fabric is printed before it is cut and sewn into the final product.
Production Differences:
DTG prints directly onto finished garments, which makes the process more flexible and efficient for both small and large runs.
AOP typically involves printing on fabric panels before assembly, which adds extra steps like cutting and sewing. This method is ideal for full-coverage designs.
In short, DTG is great for high-resolution, detailed prints on finished garments, while AOP is best for designs that need to cover the entire garment from edge to edge.
What is DTG printing vs screen printing? Which printing method is better?
Screen printing is a traditional technique that uses separate mesh screens for each color in a design. It’s known for producing vibrant, solid-color prints that last a long time. However, each screen requires setup time and cost, which makes it less practical for frequently changing designs or prints with many colors.
There are a few key differences between DTG and screen printing that can help you decide which method suits your needs best. Below, we break down the most important points to consider:
- Designs: screen printing works best for bold, graphic prints with limited colors. DTG handles complex, full-color designs with ease.
- Setup: screen printing requires time-consuming setup. DTG is ready to go with just a digital file.
- Cost-efficiency: screen printing is cost-effective for very large runs of the same design. DTG is more efficient for varied or on-demand production.
- Print feel: screen prints can feel thicker on the fabric. DTG prints are soft and lightweight.
Which is better?
For most modern apparel needs, DTG printing is the better choice, especially if you're looking for flexibility, detail and a faster production process. Unlike screen printing, DTG allows you to print multiple designs without extra setup costs and it handles full-color artwork with precision.
DTG is also a more sustainable option. It uses water-based, eco-friendly inks and produces less waste since there’s no need to create physical screens or use excess chemicals. On-demand printing with DTG also helps reduce overproduction and leftover stock.
If you want high-quality prints, freedom in design and a production method that’s kinder to the planet, DTG printing is the best choice.
DTG printing at House of U
At House of U, we offer professional DTG printing on high-quality garments from Stanley/Stella. These premium basics such as T-shirts, hoodies and sweaters are perfect for custom designs.
We print directly onto the fabric using eco-friendly inks, resulting in vibrant colors, a soft feel and long-lasting quality.
DTG shirt printing
In our T-shirt collection, we offer a T-shirt that is perfect for DTG printing. Our Unisex T-shirt Creator 2.0 is made from 100% organic cotton jersey, a breathable and soft fabric that feels gentle on the skin. With its medium fit, this T-shirt offers comfortable everyday wear.
You can personalize it with placement printing by adding your logo or custom design. Whether you want to promote your brand or make a personal statement, this T-shirt is the perfect choice.
Direct to garment printing hoodie
We offer a range of high-quality unisex hoodies perfect for DTG printing. Made from organic and sustainable materials, these hoodies combine comfort, style and eco-friendly choices.
- Unisex Front Pocket Hoodie Cruiser 2.0: made from 100% organic cotton, this hoodie features front pockets and a comfortable fit. Perfect for casual wear and easy to personalize with your own design or logo.
- Unisex Side Pocket Hoodie Sider: also made from 100% organic cotton, this hoodie has slanted side seams with built-in pockets. Stylish and comfortable, ideal for adding your custom print.
- Unisex Zip Hoodie Connector 2.0: made from 85% organic cotton and 15% recycled polyester, this eco-friendly hoodie is crafted from lightweight French Terry fabric. It has a full zipper and kangaroo pocket. Personalize it with your own design for a stylish and sustainable look.
Direct to garment printing sweater
For those looking to combine comfort and style, our Unisex Oversized Sweater Radder 2.0 is an excellent choice for DTG printing. Made from 100% organic cotton with a soft brushed interior, it offers warmth and a relaxed fit. Perfect for customizing with your own design or logo, this sweater lets you create a sustainable and unique piece.
What is dtg printing on shirts at House of U?
At House of U, it’s possible to order Stanley/Stella garments and have them printed using DTG. A template is available to place the design, showing a preview of the garment and the exact placement of the print. On the website, there’s a helpful instruction video and guide to make the process easy and clear.
We print these garments in-house using advanced DTG technology and eco-friendly inks. Each piece is printed with precision and then heat-treated to ensure the print is durable and long-lasting. After a final quality check, the items are carefully packed and shipped.
Stanley and Stella
Stanley/Stella is a premium apparel brand known for its commitment to sustainability, quality, and ethical production. All garments are made with care using organic or recycled materials and produced under fair working conditions. Thanks to their high fabric quality and smooth finish, Stanley/Stella products are ideal for DTG printing, delivering vibrant and long-lasting results. At House of U, we proudly offer a selection of their best-selling items for customisation.
We are you direct to garment printer
At House of U, we make it easy to create high-quality custom clothing with no minimum order. Whether you need just one piece or a larger run, we offer the flexibility to suit your needs. With years of experience and a wide range of sustainable garments, we’re the ideal partner for brands, designers, and creatives who want to bring their ideas to life.
✔ Fully personalised designs: Create unique T-shirts that reflect your style, message or brand identity.
✔ Small or large quantities: Order from just 1 piece or place a bulk order.
✔ Premium quality: We use sustainable garments and advanced print techniques to guarantee high-end results.
✔ Fast delivery: Your personalised garment will be shipped within 8 working days.
