The Ultimate Direct-to-Garment (DTG) Printing FAQ Guide
Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is a powerful tool for creating high-quality, full-color prints on apparel. However, with so much information online, it can be difficult to separate useful advice from sales pitches. That’s why we’ve compiled this definitive FAQ guide—sourced from industry experts with hands-on experience using Epson, Brother, Kornit, and other DTG printers.
Whether you're considering buying, using, or maintaining a DTG printer, this guide will answer your most pressing questions.
Pretreatment & Pre-Treating Best Practices
Do all shirts need pretreatment before DTG printing?
- Yes, if you’re using white ink. Any time you print on dark garments, pretreatment is required to help the white ink adhere properly and maintain vibrancy.
- For CMYK-only prints, pretreatment is optional but can improve wash durability and color brightness, even on white shirts.
Should I use an automatic pretreat sprayer or apply by hand?
- Automatic sprayers ensure consistency, preventing variations in ink adhesion and wash durability.
- Hand spraying can lead to uneven application, which may cause color inconsistencies and washout issues.
Can I pretreat shirts in advance?
- Yes! Pretreated garments can be stored for several weeks to a year, depending on the solution.
- For best results: Store in a dust-free area and use a heat press for 3-7 seconds before printing to remove moisture.
Can I DTG print on 50/50, 70/30, or triblend garments?
- It depends. Some blends work well, but others may require special polyester pretreat solutions.
- ⚠️ Avoid fabrics with stain-resistant or odor-blocking treatments—they repel water-based DTG ink.
Where can I buy pretreatment solutions?
- Lawson offers free shipping on DTG supplies for orders over $100.
How long does pretreating take?
- With a Zoom-AE automatic sprayer: 3-5 seconds per shirt.
- Cost per shirt: Approximately $0.40 when using a pretreat machine.
DTG Printing Best Practices
What happens if I print on a wrinkled shirt?
- Wrinkles can cause an incomplete or distorted print.
- Always press garments before printing to ensure a smooth surface.
What are the best underbase settings for black shirts?
- Adjust white ink layers in your RIP software based on the fabric and design.
- Test prints help find the right balance between brightness and ink consumption.
Can DTG printers handle large production runs?
- Yes, but DTG is best for short runs and on-demand printing since there’s no screen setup required.
- High-volume DTG shops often use multiple printers ("pods") around a DTG conveyor dryer to scale production.
- For even greater efficiency, consider a hybrid digital squeegee-jet printer like the Zeus V Digital Hybrid.
Can I use a conveyor dryer instead of a heat press?
- Yes! Conveyor dryers produce smoother, more durable DTG prints than heat presses.
- Read our guide on Choosing the Right DTG Dryer for more details.
DTG Printer Maintenance & Warranty
What causes printheads to clog?
- Infrequent use and improper maintenance.
- Choose printers with self-circulating ink systems to prevent clogs.
- Regular maintenance is crucial for long-term performance.
How long can a DTG printer sit unused?
- Epson F-2100: Up to 2 weeks without printing.
- Brother GTX: Requires daily operation to avoid clogging.
- Consider this when choosing a printer based on your production schedule.
What are the benefits of the Epson F2270 over other brands?
- Industry-leading warranty: 1-year full coverage (including the printhead).
- On-site service: Epson sends a technician within 48 hours—free of charge.
- Extended warranty options: Up to 3 years of coverage available.
Do I need a humidifier for my print shop?
- Yes, if your shop has dry air. DTG ink is water-based and performs best at 40%+ humidity.
How much does shipping cost for a DTG printer?
- Most major brands offer free shipping, though some third-party sellers may charge.
Is technical knowledge required to set up a DTG printer?
- No, most printers are plug-and-play with easy setup instructions.
What training is included when I purchase a DTG printer?
- Varies by supplier.
- Lawson provides 24/7 tech support and optional training courses to help you get the most out of your equipment.
DTG Print Quality & Wash Durability
How long do DTG prints last?
- With proper pretreatment and curing, DTG prints can last as long as the garment itself.
Does the ink bleed through the fabric?
- No, DTG ink does not soak through to the back of the shirt.
DTG RIP Software FAQs
What RIP software should I use?
- Most printers include proprietary RIP software:
- Epson SureColor F-2270 comes with Garment Creator 2.
- Third-party RIPs like Digital Factory offer additional print control features.
Can RIP software estimate ink costs per print?
- Yes. Input ink prices, and the software will calculate cost per design.
Can RIP software estimate print time?
- Yes, major brands like Epson provide estimated print times within their RIP software.
Can I resize an image within the RIP software?
- Yes, most RIPs allow for easy resizing.
Final Thoughts
DTG printing offers incredible customization and flexibility, but success depends on proper pretreatment, equipment maintenance, and choosing the right settings. With these expert-backed FAQs, you’ll have the knowledge to maximize your prints, reduce maintenance issues, and grow your DTG business.
