PRINT & FEEL
Why we choose direct-to-garment printing
Learn what direct-to-garment printing means, how it feels on a shirt, and how to care for your graphic tee.
A graphic tee should feel good to wear as well as look good. Shirt Moxy chooses direct-to-garment (DTG) printing for its cotton graphic tees because it puts ink directly onto the garment and suits detailed, colorful artwork.
What DTG means
A DTG printer applies ink to a prepared shirt. Dark garments may use a white underbase so colors show clearly. The print becomes part of the garment’s surface, though you may still feel ink—especially under large, solid areas or on dark shirts. Fabric, artwork coverage and production settings all affect the result.
How it compares
The illustration above compares DTG, direct-to-film (DTF) and heat-transfer vinyl. DTF transfers and vinyl can be useful for other garments, finishes and applications. Our choice for these cotton graphic tees is DTG’s direct print and detailed color.
Print feel and wear vary with the garment, ink coverage and laundry care. Choose a design you enjoy, review it on the exact shirt color, and keep the garment’s care instructions handy.
Caring for your tee
Start with the garment’s care label. As general guidance, turn printed shirts inside out, use a gentle wash, avoid bleach, and keep an iron off the printed area. Epson’s shirt-care guidance also recommends avoiding excessive heat. Follow the instructions supplied with your specific garment.
Sources
Epson: direct-to-garment and direct-to-film printing Epson: handling and caring for printed shirts Brother: DTG printing FAQs