DTG or DTF? Choose a print for your artwork

An image on a screen does not tell you how a print will feel on fabric. Start with the garment and the artwork, then compare the finished result. The sample photograph above illustrates a garment graphic; it does not establish which method produced it.

What changes between DTG and DTF?

Decision	DTG: direct to garment	DTF: direct to film
Application	Ink is printed directly onto the garment, with preparation and curing appropriate to the process.	Artwork is printed onto transfer film and applied using an adhesive system, heat and pressure.
Fabric check	Fibre content, surface, colour and pretreatment compatibility matter. Cotton-rich garments are a common starting point, but suitability still needs review.	Can suit a range of materials, subject to transfer compatibility, heat sensitivity, dye migration and adhesion checks.
Artwork check	Review fine details, gradients, transparent edges and the garment colour behind the image.	Review fine details, isolated small elements, transparency and the shape of large solid areas.
Print feel	Coverage, ink, pretreatment and garment surface affect the feel.	The transferred layer can be noticeable, especially across large solid areas; compare an actual sample.
Approval	Inspect the exact design on the selected garment.	Inspect the exact design on the selected garment.

These are general process differences, not specifications or performance guarantees for a particular order. Neither method has one universal fabric list, price advantage or wash-life figure.

Send four things before choosing

1. The garment. Share a product link or style code and the colour. If you supply your own garment, include its composition and any known surface treatment.
2. The artwork. Send the original vector or high-resolution file when available. Explain which background areas should remain transparent. A mockup communicates the idea; it does not replace the print file.
3. The placement and size. State front, back or another intended location, plus the desired width and height with units. A chest graphic and a full-front solid image can feel very different.
4. The purpose. Tell us whether it is your own piece, a sample, a batch or repeat store orders. If quantity is undecided, say so rather than guessing.

If you are unsure which process to choose, describe the result you want: a soft feel, a crisp small mark, a detailed illustration or a strong block of colour. The print team can then review the relevant trade-offs.

Check the sample before a larger run

Use the same garment, colour, design size and placement you intend to order. Record the approved artwork version so a later change is visible.

• Appearance: compare the print with the approved reference under agreed lighting. A screen colour is not a physical colour standard.
• Edges and details: check small lettering, thin lines, gradients, registration and unwanted background areas.
• Position: compare the actual print width, height and location with the agreed placement. Do not assess placement from an angled photograph alone.
• Feel and movement: check the printed area while wearing and moving in the garment. Pay attention to large solid graphics and stretch.
• Care: agree on wash conditions and the evidence needed. One photograph cannot establish long-term durability, and a universal wash-count claim is not a substitute for test results.

Keep photos and comments tied to the sample and artwork version. If the sample needs revision, record what changes and confirm the revised result before releasing the batch.

One piece, a batch, or orders for your store?

For your own piece, choose a garment and open the designer. Add the artwork, preview its placement and follow the ordering steps.

For a batch or ongoing brand orders, send a short business print request. Begin with your garment and artwork; detailed fulfilment arrangements can follow after the first conversation. Prices, suitability and timing are confirmed for the work you need.

If your project requires a new garment pattern or custom fabric development, that is a separate development brief. Meiting Garments handles the broader OEM/ODM route.