When it comes to custom t-shirt printing, there’s a lot of confusion floating around—especially between DTG (Direct-to-Garment) and DTF (Direct-to-Film). At Level Up Print, we hear it all the time:
“Isn’t DTG better quality?”
“Isn’t DTF just a knock-off method?”
Let’s clear things up once and for all—and explain why DTF is not only legit, but in many ways superior to DTG, especially with the latest tech improvements.
Let’s bust a few myths right off the bat:
❌ “DTF feels rubbery and low quality.”
✅ Not anymore. With today’s advanced film sheets, hot peel powder, and vibrant inks, DTF now produces soft, flexible, and breathable prints—especially on cotton and blends.
❌ “DTG is more professional.”
✅ That might’ve been true 5 years ago, but not today. DTF prints are sharper, more colorful, and more durable on a wider variety of fabrics. Plus, you’re not limited to just 100% cotton.
❌ “DTF is just for small-time hobbyists.”
✅ DTF has scaled massively and is now widely used by major print shops and retail brands because of its versatility, efficiency, and output quality.
1. More Fabric Options
DTG works best on 100% cotton. DTF works on cotton, polyester, tri-blends, fleece, nylon, and more. You get way more flexibility with one setup.
2. Bright Colors + Crisp Details
DTF prints are vibrant and crisp, with better coverage on dark garments thanks to improved white ink layering. Plus, they don’t fade as fast with washing.
3. No Pretreat. No Curing Hassle.
DTG requires pre-treatment and long cure times. With DTF, you press and go. Faster workflow, fewer mistakes, lower costs.
4. Perfect for Complex Designs + Small Runs
Got a colorful logo or fine detail artwork? DTF handles it like a champ. And you can do one-offs or gang sheets without wasting time or money.
5. Durability That Stands the Test of Time
Modern DTF prints hold up wash after wash with minimal cracking or peeling. DTG? Not always. DTF is built to last—and it shows.
Let’s be real: early DTF wasn’t perfect. But today’s DTF is lightyears ahead:
In fact, at Level Up Print, we’ve invested in state-of-the-art DTF technology because it’s what customers love most—especially when they see the difference in person.
For vibrant, detailed, affordable custom prints with fast turnaround, DTF is the clear winner. It’s more than just a trend—it’s the evolution of garment printing. Whether you need 1 shirt or 1,000, DTF delivers superior quality, consistency, and flexibility that DTG just can’t match in today’s market.
If you haven’t tried DTF from Level Up Print yet—you’re missing out.
Ready to see it for yourself?
Contact us today or stop by the shop and let us show you why DTF is the future of custom apparel printing in Murrieta and beyond.
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