What kind of decoration methods do you use?

Written by

Sabrina Barnes

Our Catalog includes a variety of decoration methods such as direct-to-garment (DTG), all-over (AOP), and direct-to-film (DTF) printing, as well as embroidery and more. Continue reading to learn more about each technique.

Note

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

Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing

This printing method is used for printing on clothing, and the process itself resembles digital printing on paper. Using this technique, pigmented water-based inks are applied to the garment’s surface and are absorbed by the product’s fibers. Typically, the garments are made of cotton or a cotton blend.

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.

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

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 Must-Read Design Guide.

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

Other decoration methods

Paper products, such as posters, greeting cards, and journals, are printed using digital printers that use professional-grade inks.
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.

Metallic ink, glitter, and vinyl printing are not currently offered.