How to brief a DTF or DTG print job
The first useful question is whether the customer wants a transfer or a finished garment printed directly.
Short answer: State whether the job needs a transfer or direct garment printing. Then give the garment source, fabric and colour, artwork file, print dimensions and placement, quantities by size, finishing, deadline and delivery details. Ask the print shop to confirm the process and garment suitability.
Clarify the work before sharing files
Direct to film prepares a transfer for later application. Direct to garment prints on the garment. If you are unsure which one fits your order, tell the shop how the finished item will be used and ask it to recommend the appropriate process for review.
Do not assume a transfer only order includes garments or application. Ask whether the quote is for transfers, decorated garments or both.
Describe the garment and artwork
- Garment style, supplier and product code, or confirm that the customer is supplying it
- Fabric details and garment colour
- Artwork file and the version to use
- Print position and intended dimensions on each garment
- Quantity by size and colour
- Labels, packaging and other finishing requirements
Ask the shop to check file setup, transparent areas, fine detail and garment suitability. Share a physical sample or supplier reference when the garment colour or fabric is important to the result.
Keep variants and delivery explicit
List quantities separately for each garment, colour and size. Include any different placements or artwork versions as separate lines. Give the date required and the agreed destination. If the printer is receiving customer supplied garments, include expected arrival details so production can be planned.
DTF and DTG job checklist
- Transfer supply, garment printing or both
- Garment source, style, fabric and colour
- Artwork file, dimensions and placement
- Quantity for every size and colour
- Finishing, deadline and destination
- Process and proof confirmation from the shop
What should be confirmed before production?
Confirm which process the shop will use, whether its quote includes garments and application, the garment and artwork details, and the proof it will use. Keep the final approved version identifiable. The print shop should confirm any process specific requirements and colour expectations.
Print House is being developed as a local workflow preview. Live supplier stock, prices, customer messaging and order processing are not enabled.
Common questions
Is DTF the same as DTG?
No. DTF creates a transfer that is applied to a garment. DTG prints directly onto the garment. Ask the print shop which process it is quoting.
Do I need to choose a garment supplier first?
Identify whether garments are supplied by the print shop, the customer or another supplier. The shop can then clarify any garment requirements for the selected method.
Should artwork be sized on the garment mockup?
A mockup is useful to communicate placement and scale. Give the intended dimensions as well and ask the shop to confirm the production setup.