This article provides a comprehensive guide to creating design files specifically optimized for Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing on apparel. It covers essential file format and color considerations, along with valuable tips for achieving the best possible print results.
File Guidelines for DTG Printing
To ensure your designs turn out perfectly when printed on apparel using DTG technology, there are some important guidelines to keep in mind:
File Format and Resolution: Submit your files in either PNG or JPEG format with a minimum resolution of 150 DPI. For designs that incorporate a transparent background, PNG format is recommended.
Color Profile: To maintain color accuracy between your screen and the final printed product, create your design files using the sRGB color profile.
Tips for Optimal DTG Printing Results
Follow these valuable tips to guarantee your DTG prints look their very best:
Solid Colors over Semi-Transparency: For optimal print results, use solid colors in your designs. If you need a semi-transparent effect, consider using halftoning techniques. Semi-transparent graphics or design elements with lowered opacity may not print well with DTG technology.
High-Resolution Design: Use a minimum of 300 DPI for the best possible print quality. Simply increasing the pixel count or resolution of a low-resolution image won't enhance the print quality. It's crucial to create your design from scratch at the necessary resolution.
Utilize Transparency: When designing for black garments, make sure to leave areas you want to appear black in your design fully transparent. This is because a white under base is applied during the DTG printing process, causing black ink to appear gray on black garments.
Avoid Dark Colors on Dark Garments: Refrain from using dark color designs or text on dark-colored garments as it may not produce the desired outcome.
CMYK Color Gamut: Design your artwork within the CMYK color gamut for the most accurate color reproduction. Colors outside of this range may result in slight variations during the printing process.
Avoid Neon Colors: It's best to steer clear of using neon colors in your designs, as they may not print as vividly as intended.
Important Considerations for DTG Printing
White Ink on Light Garments: Keep in mind that white ink is not printed on white or natural-colored garments. Any white elements in your design will not be printed, leaving those areas blank on the final product.
White Ink on Bright Garments: White ink printed on bright-colored garments, particularly red, maroon, or similar shades, may appear tinted due to the color of the garment underneath.
Print Placement Variations: While we strive for precision, there might be slight discrepancies in print placement.
Garment Quality Impact: Different garment qualities can yield varying print results. For the best outcome, we recommend choosing premium or heavyweight 100% cotton garments. These materials have a tighter knit, which generally results in sharper and more vibrant prints.
Printing Methods: Depending on the location and availability, the Direct to Film (DTF) printing method may be used on the inner neck area and sleeves. This ensures the fastest production and delivery times for your customers.
Durability: Our experience shows us that DTG printed shirts are just as durable as screen printed shirts when it comes to washability.
Please be aware that slight color variations can occur in the DTG printing process. The final printed color of your design can be affected by various factors, including different printers, color profiles, settings, and processes. While we strive for color accuracy, we want to be transparent and cannot guarantee 100% color matching.