Our Frequently Asked DTG Questions.
1What is direct to garment (DTG)?
Direct-to-garment printing uses a modified inkjet printer to directly print a design on a t-shirt without the use of a stenciled image or a squeegee to apply ink through a mesh. The direct-to-garment printer prints in a way similar to regular color ink-jet printers.
2How is the durability of DTG prints?
Garments printed using DTG technology have excellent washability because the ink actually penetrates into the fabric. Unlike silk screen and heat transfers, DTG ensures your image will not crack or peel off after a few washes.
3What fabrics can you print on?
For the most vibrant look and durable prints, we encourage 100% cotton garments.
4What is the largest image size possible?
We can print images up to 14" x 18".
5What image formats do you accept?
The accepted graphic format that is preferred is .png. We prefer this format for 2 reasons: it is lightweight file format and it supports transparencies. Each business will has it's own preference. The other format that we work with is Photoshop (PSD). For more information, see Artwork Requirements.
6Why is it more expensive to print on black or colored shirts?
If your image needs to be printed on a black or colored garment, this will require pretreatment and a white under-base. We add an extra charge for this in the printing cost.
7Do you offer samples?
Yes, we offer half off on only 1 shirt sample per new customer (1 side print only; hoodies and sweaters are not included). You will be responsible for the shipping cost as well as any additional print locations (ie: back, sleeve, and care tag printing). The sample can only be shipped to the requestor's address.
8Do you offer branding?
Yes, we offer multiple branding options, care tag printing, poly bagging, and more. Please click on Branding Services to see all our offered services and prices.
9How do I add my company name to the shipping label?
To have your company name appear in the return address of the shipping label, add your information to the Order Notes section. We will make a note to your customer profile to ensure this is changed for each of your orders.
10How does fulfillment work?
For information on the order fulfillment process, see Order Fulfillment info.
11What is the Order Portal?
The Order Portal is a platform that 4C Print Shop uses for order fulfillment customers to place their orders. For more information, see see Order Portal.
12How do I care for my DTG garment?
Due to the process the garment undergoes for printing; please do not iron the item, wash it inside out with cold water and "like" colors, no abrasive detergent, air dry for best results.
13Why is there a stain on my new DTG garment?
It is not a stain. This is simply a residue from our pre-treat process. This will go away with the first wash! Check out our blog for more information. Pretreatment.
Our Frequently Asked DTF Questions.
1What is direct to film (DTF)?
Direct to Film printing, or DTF, is a new technology that allows users to print designs onto special films after which a white or black powder is applied to the printed sheet. The powder, which is also called the adhesive, is then cured using a heat press. During this process the powder will actually melt into the ink. Once the powder is cured, the printed design can then be transferred to the desired garment using a heat press.
2What are the file requirements for DTF?
The accepted graphic format that is preferred is .png, image must be submitted in their final print size, otherwise enlarging the image will result in loss of resolution. For best results, we encourage that images be designed in 150 dpi. This resolution offers has the most realistic images, and the formats allow for us to correct the image and sizes if necessary.
3What is the largest transfer size available?
Currently, 12 wide x 18 length is the largest transfer size available.
4What does DTF feel like?
Can be thin or thick, soft or plastic like
5Is there a minimum order?
No, we do not have a minimum order requirement. You can order one or as many as you need.
6How do I care for my DTF garments?
Should be able to be washed for up to fifty times before there are any cracks.
7What fabrics can you print on?