DTG and DTF Printing Poised for Major Growth Globally

Fashion Value Chain

4 days ago

Direct-to-garment (DTG) and direct-to-film (DTF) digital textile printing technologies are entering a phase of accelerated global growth, according to a new 21-page report titled 'Digital printing direct to fabrics and garments: developments and growth prospects' by Textiles Intelligence. These methods are transforming how fashion is produced and sold—especially in the fast fashion and e-commerce sectors.
Driven by advancements in automation, ink formulations, and printhead technology, digital textile printing now offers extensive flexibility, customization, and fast turnaround capabilities. Unlike traditional processes, newer digital printing machines often eliminate the need for pre- or post-processing equipment and specialist operators, reducing environmental impact while enhancing efficiency.
Leading machine manufacturers in this space include Brother, ColorJet, EFI Reggiani, Epson, Kornit Digital, Mimaki, and Sawgrass.
DTG uses inkjet technology to apply vivid, high-resolution designs directly onto garments. DTF, meanwhile, prints on polyester film before transferring the design onto fabric—ideal for producing bold and durable graphics. Both technologies support rapid design iteration and on-demand production, perfectly suited to e-commerce platforms and fast fashion supply chains.
Notably, DTF printing has seen explosive adoption, with an estimated 7 billion items printed using DTF in 2024 alone. It's also reported that half of all T-shirts globally are now decorated using DTF. Much of this surge is driven by high investment in China.
Shein, the Singapore-headquartered fast fashion giant, is a major innovator in the DTF space, having developed two proprietary techniques:
Digital Thermal Transfer Printing
Cool Transfer Denim Printing – which reportedly reduces water usage by 70% compared to traditional denim washing methods.
As sustainability, speed, and scalability become key to apparel manufacturing, DTG and DTF are quickly becoming essential for modern fashion production.