DTG VS dye-sublimation----why DTG couldn’t replace other printings?

In recent years, as technology is developing rapidly, printing has become diverse and tends to mechanization. In these 

printings, DTG(direct to garment)is the most typical example. The printing presented by this printing is colorful and 

high-precision pattern, without plate making, and the pattern is basically unlimited. But DTG printing so good, why not 

replace other printings?

In this blog we use dye-sublimation in thermal transfer printing as an example.

First of all, let's understand what thermal transfer is and what DTG is.

What is dye-sublimation

Use special thermal transfer ink to print on thermal sublimation paper or color ink-jet paper, and  transfer pigment 

molecules to the fabric by heating. Because only the ink is transferred to the fabric, it feels good handle. Designs 

that can transfer pattern effects and details.

What is DTG

DTG, which works like a printer, prints color images directly on clothes. Its main tools include ink, clothes, and machines.

Now we get back to the main topic, why DTG couldn’t replace dye-sublimation?

1. Fabric

Dye-sublimation mainly prints polyester fibers, and the effect of printing 100% polyester fibers is  very good, but if there 

is some cotton inside, white spots will be exposed. Cotton fabric is suitable for DTG to do. But DTG is more suitable for 

printing light color preferably white, the effect will be very good.

2. Color

Dye-sublimation: Due to the heat transfer of pigment molecules onto the fabric, so the colors are vivid and layered, able 

to design details to  show the subtle differences between adjacent colors without affecting the original texture of the fabric.

DTG: High-precision pattern, but unable to accurately match colors. The real patterns may be darker than the manuscript. 

Of course, today's  ink equipment can already solve this problem very well, but it also prompts the issue of cost.

3. Cost

There is no doubt that DTG is more expensive than thermal transfer. Because the ink required for DTG is more expensive, 

just like girls' liquid  foundation. But dye-sublimation, because of its need for engraving, the number of colors has become 

a very  important part. Therefore, if mass  production, dye-sublimation is suitable, but if small batch, you can choose DTG.

In a word, both have their advantages and disadvantages. If you want to order the cotton fabric,  pattern more details 

of  the T-shirt, you can choose DTG. If you want customized jerseys, quick drying clothes, etc.,  you can choose 

dye-sublimation.