Textile printing: complete guide to T-shirts, bags and caps

Why textile printing is essential today

• Enables mass personalization (events, gifts, merchandise).

• Offers a unique way to stand out in a saturated market.

• Meets growing needs for short runs and rapid iterations via print-on-demand

The main textile printing techniques

Direct-to-Garment (DTG)

• Direct-to-garment printing, ideal for small quantities and multicolored designs.

• High quality and durability: up to 50 washes (or more) 

• Recent advances: more precise print heads, automated maintenance thanks to AI, especially on dark fabrics 

Direct-to-Film (DTF)

• Separate printing on film followed by transfer.
• In 2025, inks are more vibrant, durable and resistant to repeated washing.
• Simplified multi-material compatibility.

Screen printing

• Traditional technique using thick inks (plasti-sol or water-based).

• Advantages: opacity, durability, tactile rendering depending on ink; disadvantages: costly assembly, unsuitable for small production runs

Dye sublimation & UV printing

• Ideal for sublimation on synthetic materials such as polyester; penetrating dye inks .

• UV printing possible on rigid surfaces and fabrics; instant drying, highly resistant

Choosing the right technique: key criteria

• Volume DTG/DTF for small production runs, screen printing for large volumes.

• Support cotton vs. polyester (prefer sublimation on poly) 

• Budget digital printers require a high initial investment .

• Durability eco-friendly, water-based pigment inks minimize environmental impact 

• Lead times & flexibility Digital: faster and more responsive.

Preparing your files for textile printing

• Resolution: minimum 300 dpi at actual size.

• Formats : PNG (transparent background), AI, PDF.

• Matching color profiles (CMYK or ICC profile supplied by printer).

• Check fine patterns, white zones and safety margins.

Trends 2025 & eco-responsible innovations

• Eco-solvent, water-based inks no toxic solvents, less energy and water 

• Durable DTF films on cotton, polyester, nylon

• Digital print on demand reduces inventory and waste 

• Automation & IoT remote monitoring, automatic consumables ordering

• 3D printing on textiles relief and texture via 3D-DTG, ideal for upcycling

Concrete steps to launch your textile project

1. Define your needs type of item, quantity, use, target.

2. Select technique according to the above criteria.

3. Create the visual with the right specifications.

4. Start production and control quality + durability (wash tests).

5. Maintenance Wash gently in lukewarm water, iron inside out and do not use harsh fabric softeners.

Textile printing offers incomparable flexibility and personalization, while remaining in line with today's eco-responsible expectations. In 2025, DTG, DTF and digital technologies will dominate, supported by eco-solvent inks, automation and creative potential (3D, e-textiles). To find out more, don't hesitate to request a quote