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Is DTG Printing Dead? Not Even Close!

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  • Post published:Jan 31, 2025
  • Reading time:7 mins read

DTG printing has been through a lot. Once hailed as the future of custom apparel, it’s now facing tough competition from newer technologies like DTF printing and advancements in screen printing automation. So, is DTG printing dead? Not at all! In fact, DTG is finding fresh niches, evolving with industry trends, and proving it still has plenty of life left in it. Let’s break down why DTG isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

The Unique Strengths Of DTG Printing

DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printing shines where other methods struggle. Need high-detail, full-color prints on cotton? DTG delivers. Want to fulfill single-piece orders without the hassle of screens or transfers? DTG is your go-to.

Unlike DTF and screen printing, DTG prints ink directly onto fabric, allowing for softer prints with unlimited colors and intricate details. While some businesses shift to DTF for its versatility on different fabrics, DTG remains unmatched for ultra-soft, high-quality prints on cotton garments.

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Small Batch & On-Demand Printing: DTG’s Sweet Spot

One of the biggest trends in custom apparel is the shift to on-demand printing. Consumers want customized, limited-run designs without minimum order requirements, and DTG printing makes that possible.

Print-on-demand businesses, Etsy sellers, and small apparel brands rely on DTG for its ability to quickly print one-offs without expensive setup costs. The boom in online stores selling personalized apparel has only strengthened DTG’s role in the industry.

Hybrid Printing: DTG + DTF = A Power Duo

Rather than being a replacement, DTF printing is actually complementing DTG in many shops. Hybrid solutions are becoming popular, where businesses use DTG for soft, high-resolution cotton prints and DTF for transfers on polyester, blends, and tricky fabrics.

Some DTG machines even offer optional DTF functionality, giving print shops the best of both worlds. Instead of DTG being dead, it’s adapting—and the businesses that embrace this hybrid model are thriving.

Advancements in DTG Technology Keep It Competitive

DTG printers have come a long way. Today’s machines print faster, use less ink, and produce more vibrant results than ever before.

Brands like Epson, Brother, and Kornit are constantly pushing the envelope with improved printheads, white ink circulation systems, and automation features that make DTG more efficient and cost-effective. Plus, eco-conscious printing is a growing demand, and DTG aligns well with this trend, using water-based inks and producing minimal waste compared to screen printing.

DecoNetwork: The Ultimate Sidekick For DTG Printing Success

If DTG printing is alive and thriving, then DecoNetwork is the secret weapon helping print shops streamline and scale their operations. From automated online stores to hassle-free order management, DecoNetwork gives DTG businesses the tools to handle everything from custom one-offs to bulk production—all while keeping orders, artwork, and pricing in perfect sync. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or a growing print shop, DecoNetwork helps you maximize DTG printing efficiency, reduce manual headaches, and focus on what really matters—printing stunning, high-quality designs that keep customers coming back.

The Takeaway: DTG Printing Isn’t Dead—It’s Just Evolving

DTG printing is far from obsolete. While new printing methods emerge, DTG continues to evolve, carving out strong niches in the custom apparel industry. From high-detail cotton prints to on-demand fulfillment and hybrid printing solutions, DTG is proving it still has plenty of life left.

So, the next time someone asks, “Is DTG printing dead?” you’ll know the answer: Not even close. It’s just getting started in its next chapter.

FAQ: Everything You Need To Know About DTG Printing

No, DTG printing is far from dead! While new technologies like DTF printing have gained popularity, DTG continues to thrive in custom apparel, especially for high-quality cotton prints and on-demand production.

DTG printing applies ink directly onto fabric, allowing for full-color, high-detail designs with a soft feel. Unlike screen printing, it requires no setup, making it ideal for small orders and print-on-demand businesses.

DTG is better for soft, breathable prints on cotton garments, while DTF excels on a wider range of fabrics, including polyester. Many print shops now use both for a hybrid approach.

Yes! With the rise of print-on-demand and online stores, DTG printing remains a profitable business model, especially for personalized and niche apparel brands.

DTG offers unlimited colors, high-resolution prints, a soft finish, and no setup costs—perfect for small batches and custom orders without large inventory risks.

DTG printers spray water-based inks directly onto fabric, similar to how an inkjet printer works on paper. The ink absorbs into the fibers, creating vibrant, detailed prints.

Yes! DTG uses water-based inks, produces less waste than screen printing, and eliminates the need for plastisol transfers, making it a more sustainable choice.

DTG works best on 100% cotton garments, but some printers can handle cotton blends with pre-treatment. It’s not ideal for polyester or dark synthetic fabrics.

DecoNetwork helps DTG print shops automate their workflow, manage online stores, streamline order processing, and optimize pricing—making DTG businesses more efficient and profitable.

To start a DTG business, invest in a high-quality DTG printer, pre-treatment machine, and heat press. Use DecoNetwork to manage orders and launch an e-commerce store for seamless sales and production.