Can I use gradients for DTG products?

Written by

Sabrina Barnes

Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing can reproduce gradients, but the final result depends on the garment color and how the design is printed. This article explains when gradients work well for DTG products and outlines recommended alternatives for achieving smooth fade effects.

There are two ways a design can be printed using the DTG printing method:

Dark or black garments – A layer of white underbase is applied before the color layer to make colors vibrant.
Light or white garments – Only the color layer is applied.

For this reason, transparent gradients are not recommended when printing on dark garments. The white underbase layer will show through the transparent areas, making the gradient appear uneven or patchy.

Example showing white underbase affecting transparent gradients on dark garments

What are the alternative design options?

The best way to achieve a gradient effect on colored DTG products is to use a halftone gradient, which consists of small opaque dots that create the illusion of a fade when printed.

Comparison of halftone gradients versus transparent gradients

This technique avoids transparency and produces smoother results on all garment colors. You can create halftone gradients using most graphic design software that supports pattern or halftone effects.