What You Need to Know About DTG Printing and How it Works
Digital Printing is a technology that was born in the late-1980s but took quite a while to catch
on. By the 2000s, DTG machines were used to print t-shirts and other garments. Today, it’s considered a game-changer in customized apparel because it can print on dark fabrics.
Digital printing works by sending a pre-press image file to the printer. The printer then uses the image file to print on pre-treated fabrics, such as t-shirts, sweatshirts, and baseball caps. The ink is embedded into the material due to “sublimation.” The technology is also known as DTG, flat-bed printing, or direct-to-garment printing.
Today, let's explore everything about DTG printing.
Here's what you need to know:
How Does it Work?
The most common DTG machines are called DTG-640. They are usually fitted with a color touchscreen. You can think of a DTG machine as a computer printer. It takes the image data from the computer's memory and transfers it to the printhead. The printing unit of a DTG machine is exactly like that of a standard inkjet printer. It has four tubes with ink cartridges on each side. The printhead moves on a carriage located inside the machine, and the paper is transported in the opposite direction.
To begin the printing process, you need to create your image by editing it on your computer. Then, you load the image file into the machine's memory, and you’re ready to print. The DTG-640 is a straightforward machine to operate.
Steps for Digital Printing Custom T-Shirts
1. Prepare the Artwork
The DTG process requires a particular image file type, called a vector graphics file. Vectors are made up of paths, lines, and curves rather than pixels. It also needs a high resolution to produce a high-quality image.
To start, you’ll need to create your image using Adobe Illustrator, Inkscape, or similar high-quality vector graphics software. Add colors to the vector file. It’s also not recommended to use a black-and-white image. The DTG-640 works by applying colors directly to your fabric, not by printing directly on the fabric. It’s better to use colors so that your image will look clearer and will be easy to see.
2. Upload the Artwork to the DTG Machine
The DTG machine requires a particular image file called a vector image file. It’s a high-quality vector image file, and it’s also a color vector graphic. You can use Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape.
It’s important to remember that DTG is a direct-to-fabric printing technology, not a direct-to-garment printing technology. Therefore, you need to print the image on unique papers with a printable coating. Your DTG Machine will then transfer the image to your garment.
3. Pretreat the Garment
Before printing on the garment, you need to use a particular pretreatment solution. It’s called a pretreatment solution because it improves the color saturation of your image. It transforms the color of the garments and gives them a ‘vintage look.’ It also helps to reduce the chances of scratching.
You want to make sure that the pretreatment solution is compatible with the ink used. Some solutions work better than others. The most important thing is to choose a solution made explicitly for the DTG process.
4. Print the Artwork on the Garment
Place the garment on the wet-proofing plate and carefully lower the container into the machine. The plate will lower the fabric and the printhead to a level so that the printhead can quickly contact the garment. Push the start button and press the paper selector button.
The Bottom Line
Digital printing is a fast and easy process. It saves you the hassle of printing your artwork on water-based transfer paper, then placing it on the garment. Then, you embellish the design with a heat press and an iron. Then wash and dry your t-shirt.
The DTG process, on the other hand, is quick and easy. You simply need to create your artwork in a vector format, then upload it to the DTG machine. The machine will do all the work and will follow your instructions.
If you need help with making your designs a reality, we can help you. Certified Print Co is the best custom t-shirt and apparel printing company in Denver, Colorado. We offer high-quality printing on high-quality clothing. See how your designs will look by visiting our design lab today!