What decoration methods does Printify use?

Written by

Agate Kraukle

We offer a wide range of professional decoration methods in our Catalog. From classic direct-to-garment (DTG) printing to premium embroidery and durable laser engraving, our techniques are chosen to match the specific material of each item. This guide explains how each method works and which products they are best suited for.

Note

Some products offer both DTG printing and embroidery options, allowing you to choose the best method for your design needs. Keep in mind that the design areas for each option will differ.

Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing

DTG printing works much like an inkjet printer for clothing. Pigmented, water-based inks are applied directly to the garment's surface and absorbed by the fibers. This method is ideal for detailed, multi-color designs on cotton-based garments.

This is one of the most popular printing techniques, as it allows you to easily produce one-off products at a low cost and can accommodate precise, detailed designs. This printing method is used for printing on:

T-shirts
Hoodies
Sweatshirts
Joggers
Totes

Note

For optimal color results using the DTG printing method, please take into consideration certain color limitations.

Sample image of a Printify hoodie and tote bag showing graphics design printed directly into the cotton fibers for a soft finish.

All-over printing (AOP) or sublimation

The all-over printing (AOP) technique uses high heat and pressure to apply dyes onto the product. The print surface is typically white and can be made of various materials. During the printing process, the dyes are absorbed by the material (or fabric), creating a seamless, smooth finish. This printing method is used for printing on:

Clothing (t-shirts, leggings, swimwear, masks, etc.)
Shoes
Accessories
Mugs
Phone cases
Home decor items

A sample tote bag featuring a vibrant, seamless pattern that covers the entire surface from seam to seam.

Direct-to-film (DTF) printing

DTF printing involves printing designs onto a special PET film and then transferring them to a product using adhesive powder and heat. DTF transfers are made with white ink, which means they can be applied to any color fabric and still retain the vibrancy of the image.

Compared to DTG prints, DTF prints have a textured feel to them. However, the resulting print is more durable and less prone to peeling over time. This printing method is used for printing on:

T-shirts
Activewear
Caps
Selected home decor items

Note

Find out more about the DTF printing method and its comparison with DTG printing by checking out our Design Guide.

Close-up of a hoodie back print showing a vibrant design with crisp edges and saturated colors.

Embroidery

Embroidery products feature designs stitched onto garments using thread and a needle. While it provides excellent durability and a premium look, the color options are limited to the available thread shades. Printify offers embroidery for the following product types:

Hats
Polos
Sweatshirts
Hoodies

Puff Print

Puff Print is a specialty heat-transfer decoration method that achieves a raised, 3D foam-like effect on fabric. During production, the puff ink expands when heated and rises off the garment surface. This creates a soft, spongy texture. Puff Print transfers hold up on cotton, polyester, and blended fabrics.

We are continuously working on expanding the list of eligible products- you can find the full list in our Catalog.

Metallic Print

Metallic Print is a precision-cut Heat Transfer Vinyl decoration that produces a sleek, high-luster finish.

The vinyl is cut to the artwork’s shape, weeded to remove the excess material, and heat-pressed onto the garment, bonding to the fabric for lasting durability. This creates a reflective, liquid-metal finish under any light source. Printify offers up to 10 metallic shades.

We are continuously working on expanding the list of eligible products- you can find the full list in our Catalog.

Glitter Print

Glitter Print is a precision-cut Heat Transfer Vinyl decoration that delivers a bright, sparkling finish with real surface texture.

The glitter vinyl sheet is precision-cut to the shape of your logo or artwork, weeded to remove the excess material, and heat-pressed onto the garment. The vinyl bonds to the fabric, locking the embedded glitter particles in place. Printify offers up to 19 glitter shades.

We are continuously working on expanding the list of eligible products- you can find the full list in our Catalog.

Note

For our Heat Transfer Vinyl (Puff Print, Metallic Print, Glitter Print) design guidelines, check out this article.

Other decoration methods

Paper products — including posters, greeting cards, journals, photo books, and coloring books — are printed using digital printers with professional-grade inks. Traditional text-based books such as novels or textbooks are not available in our Catalog.
Bottles and tumblers are printed using sublimation and UV printing methods.
EVA Foam Clogs (AOP) are printed using 3D heat transfer printing.
Woven products are crafted by weaving together combinations of red, blue, green, gold, white, and black yarns in different proportions.
Fiber laser–engraved products are decorated by etching designs onto their surfaces using a focused laser beam.
CO₂-engraved products are decorated by etching designs into compatible materials using a CO₂ laser.
Ceramic ornaments are printed using a sublimation process that transfers the design onto the product’s coated surface.