The custom apparel industry offers a wide variety of printing methods, each suited to different business needs. Whether you’re just starting or looking to upgrade your equipment, understanding these methods—and having access to high-quality supplies like those from Joto Imaging Supplies—can help you select the best fit for your shop.
The Most Popular T-Shirt Printing Types
When it comes to custom apparel, these are the printing methods that lead the industry:
Direct-to-Garment (DTG) Printing
DTG printing involves using a specialized printer to apply ink directly onto fabric, making it perfect for intricate designs with full-color detail. Best For: Short runs, detailed artwork, and full-color designs.
- Epson SureColor F2270 Hybrid DTG Printer – Combines DTG and DTF capabilities for ultimate versatility.
- Roland VersaSTUDIO BN2-20A DTF Printer – Versatile for creating detailed and vibrant designs on garments.
Heat Press Printing
Heat press printing involves transferring designs onto fabric using heat and pressure, making it versatile for various materials and designs. Best For: Small to medium runs, personalized designs, and intricate artwork.
- Joto Auto Release ClamShell Heat Press – Provides consistent precision for small to medium projects while ensuring effortless operation with its auto-release feature.
- Joto Pneumatic Shuttle Press 16" x 20" – Designed for high-volume production, this press ensures consistent results and minimizes operator fatigue.
Sublimation Printing
Sublimation printing uses heat to transfer dye onto fabric, embedding the ink into the fibers for vibrant, long-lasting prints. It works best on light-colored, polyester fabrics. Best For: Polyester garments, all-over prints, and vibrant designs.
- Epson SureColor F570 Sublimation Printer – A compact solution for high-quality sublimation prints.
- Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500 – Perfect for small-to-medium projects, including personalized mugs, tumblers, & more.
DTF Printing (Direct-to-Film)
DTF printing involves printing a design on a special film, which is then transferred onto the fabric with heat and adhesive powder. This method offers the versatility of DTG with the convenience of transfers. Best For: Full-color designs, cotton, polyester, and blends.
- Epson SureColor F1070 Hybrid Printer – A reliable and efficient printer designed specifically for high-quality DTF transfers.
- OtterPro DTF All-in-One System – A powerful, all-inclusive system for DTF printing, offering exceptional quality and ease of use.
Which T-Shirt Printing Methods Should You Choose?
Choosing the right method depends on factors like design complexity, order size, and material type. For high-volume production, heat press printing provides unmatched efficiency. DTG and sublimation are ideal for intricate designs and small runs. Meanwhile, DTF stands out for its ability to produce vibrant, durable prints on diverse fabrics, offering unmatched versatility for personalized or one-off designs.
FAQs
Q: What is a Teflon sheet used for?
A: Teflon sheets are used with heat presses to protect your garments and ensure even heat distribution during printing.
Q: Can sublimation printing work on cotton?
A: Sublimation printing works best on polyester or polymer-coated materials. It does not adhere well to cotton fabrics.
Q: Which method is easiest for beginners?
A: Heat press printing is beginner-friendly, as it requires minimal setup and is easy to learn.
Final Thoughts
With the right printing method, you can take your custom apparel business to the next level. Whether you choose DTG, heat press printing, sublimation, or DTF printing, Joto Imaging Supplies offers top-quality machines and supplies to support your goals.
Make It Happen Today!
With the right printing method and top-tier equipment from Joto Imaging Supplies, you can take your custom apparel business to new heights. Whether you're a beginner exploring your first project or an experienced professional scaling your operations, Joto has everything you need to create stunning, high-quality garments with ease and efficiency.