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    Home  >  Catalogue

    By Aisha - 6 min read

    How Much Does DTG Printing Cost?

    Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing has transformed how we approach custom apparel. Unlike traditional methods like screen printing, DTG doesn't require time-consuming setup or expensive screens. Instead, it uses cutting-edge technology to apply designs directly onto the fabric, making it the go-to choice for intricate designs, multi-colored prints, and small-batch orders.


    But here’s where it gets tricky: the cost of DTG printing isn’t one-size-fits-all. It varies based on factors like the garment material, color, and design details. Printing a single T-shirt with a vibrant design might cost differently than producing a bulk order of 50. And if you're working with dark garments, additional costs for white ink under bases can significantly impact your final bill.


    Understanding these costs isn’t just useful—it’s essential. Knowing what affects the price empowers you to make smarter decisions, whether you’re printing for a promotional campaign, a special event, or launching your own clothing line. With DTG, small tweaks—like garment selection or design adjustments—can make a big difference in both quality and cost.


    So, what exactly goes into the price of DTG printing? Let’s break it down step by step to help you navigate this dynamic world of custom apparel.

    What is DTG Printing? Revolutionizing Custom Apparel

    Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing is a state-of-the-art process that uses advanced inkjet technology to print designs directly onto fabric. Unlike traditional methods such as screen printing, DTG doesn’t require extensive setup, stencils, or screens. Instead, it sprays water-based inks directly onto the garment’s surface, bonding with the fibers to create vibrant, high-quality prints that feel soft to the touch.


    This process is powered by precision. The printer works much like the one you’d use for paper, but it’s specifically designed for textiles. It can handle complex, colorful, and photorealistic designs with ease, capturing even the finest details without adding extra cost for additional colors or intricate patterns.

    Why is DTG Printing So Popular?

    DTG printing has become the gold standard for custom apparel due to its flexibility and convenience. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

     

    • No Minimum Order Quantities: Whether you need one T-shirt for a gift or 100 for an event, DTG makes it possible without setup fees or order restrictions.
    • Unlimited Color Options: Unlike screen printing, which charges more for additional colors, DTG handles multicolor designs at no extra cost.
    • High Detail and Precision: From gradients to fine lines, DTG captures even the smallest details in your design.
    • Eco-Friendly Inks: Many DTG printers use water-based inks that are better for the environment compared to plastisol inks used in other methods.
    • Fast Turnaround for Small Orders: DTG eliminates the need for extensive preparation, making it a faster option for short runs or one-off prints.


    Whether you’re creating branded merchandise, custom gifts, or personal apparel, DTG printing offers unmatched quality and convenience. It’s the ideal choice for anyone who values high detail, unlimited colors, and flexibility in order size.

    Why is DTG Printing More Expensive or Cheaper Than Other Methods?

    Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing stands out in the custom apparel industry for its flexibility, but its costs can vary significantly compared to traditional methods like screen printing or heat transfers. Understanding why DTG is sometimes more expensive—and other times more economical—requires a closer look at its setup, materials, and production process.

    How DTG Differs in Setup Costs

    One of DTG's key advantages is its minimal setup. Unlike screen printing, which requires creating stencils (screens) for each color in the design, DTG uses digital technology to print directly onto fabric. This eliminates the need for labor-intensive preparation, making it cheaper for small orders or one-off prints.

     

    • Why It Can Be Cheaper: For small runs or personalized designs, DTG is often more affordable because there are no setup fees, and the process begins immediately.
    • Why It Can Be Costlier: For large orders with simple designs, screen printing becomes more economical. Its setup costs are high, but the cost per unit decreases significantly with volume.

    Material Costs and Ink Usage

    DTG printing uses specialized water-based inks designed to bond with fabric fibers. While these inks produce vibrant, high-quality prints, they are generally more expensive than the plastisol inks used in screen printing.

     

    • Why It Can Be Cheaper: DTG doesn’t charge extra for multicolored or intricate designs, as the inkjet printer handles these with ease.
    • Why It Can Be Costlier: Printing on dark garments requires a white ink under base to ensure colors pop, which increases ink usage and costs.

    Production Process and Speed

    DTG excels at producing high-detail prints without additional labor. However, its production speed can’t match screen printing for large-scale jobs.

     

    • Why It Can Be Cheaper: For detailed, photorealistic designs, DTG avoids the complexity and rising costs associated with adding colors or gradients in screen printing.
    • Why It Can Be Costlier: Screen printing is faster for bulk orders, as the same screen can produce hundreds of garments in a fraction of the time it takes for a DTG printer to print individual pieces.

    When DTG is More Economical

    • Small Orders or One-Off Prints: With no setup fees, DTG shines when printing a few items or even a single shirt.
    • Intricate or Multicolor Designs: The cost remains consistent no matter how complex or colorful the design is.

    When DTG is Costlier

    • Bulk Orders with Simple Designs: Screen printing’s efficiency in handling repetitive designs makes it the cheaper option for large-scale runs.
    • Dark Garments: The need for a white ink under base can increase costs for DTG significantly.

    DTG printing’s pricing depends on your specific project needs. It’s a cost-effective solution for short runs, intricate designs, and projects where setup time or fees are a concern. However, for high-volume, simple designs, screen printing may offer better economies of scale. At Yes We Print, we’ll help you decide which option fits your budget and goals, ensuring you get the best value for your project.

    How Much Does DTG Printing Cost Per Shirt?

    The cost of DTG printing per shirt can vary widely depending on factors like order size, garment type, and design complexity. On average, you can expect prices to range between $15 to $30 per shirt for small or single-item orders. Bulk orders, however, often bring the cost down significantly, with prices as low as $7 to $12 per shirt depending on the volume.

    Single-Order Costs

    For a single shirt, pricing is higher due to fixed costs like setup and ink usage. For example:

     

    • A single white T-shirt with a simple design might cost around $15–$18.
    • For a dark T-shirt requiring a white underbase, the price could increase to $20–$30.

    Bulk Order Costs

    With larger orders, economies of scale come into play, reducing the per-shirt price. For example:

     

    • A bulk order of 50 white T-shirts might cost around $8–$10 per shirt.
    • For the same order on dark garments, the cost may rise to $10–$12 per shirt, depending on the amount of white ink needed.

    These estimates are influenced by variables like garment material, design size, and printing speed. At Yes We Print, we pride ourselves on offering the most transparent pricing in the industry, with no hidden fees and a clear breakdown of costs. We guarantee the lowest prices in the market, ensuring you get unmatched value whether you’re ordering a single shirt or a bulk run of hundreds.

    What Factors Influence the Cost of DTG Printing?

    The cost of DTG printing depends on several key factors, each playing a role in determining your final price. Understanding these variables helps you make informed decisions and optimize your budget.

    1. Order Quantity

    One of the biggest factors is the size of your order.

     

    • Single-Item Orders: DTG printing is perfect for small orders because it doesn’t require costly setup like screen printing. However, the per-shirt cost is typically higher, ranging from $15 to $30, depending on the design and garment. 

      At Yes We Print, we ensure even single orders are priced competitively, offering great value for one-off or custom designs.

     

    • Bulk Orders: Ordering in larger quantities significantly lowers the per-shirt price. For example, ordering 50 shirts might reduce the cost to $8–$12 per shirt, thanks to bulk discounts and economies of scale. 

      With Yes We Print’s lowest price guarantee, you can maximize your savings while enjoying the same high-quality printing for larger orders.

    2. Design Complexity and Colors

    DTG printing excels at handling intricate designs with multiple colors.

     

    • No Extra Costs for Complexity: Unlike screen printing, DTG charges the same price for simple and detailed designs because it uses digital printing technology. Whether it’s a single logo or a photo-realistic image, the cost is unaffected by design complexity.
    • Unlimited Colors at No Extra Charge: You can use as many colors as you like without worrying about additional fees, making DTG ideal for creative, multi-colored artwork.

    3. Garment Type and Material

    The type of garment and fabric you choose can impact the cost:

     

    • Fabric Compatibility: DTG works best on 100% cotton garments because the ink bonds more effectively with natural fibers. Printing on blended fabrics or synthetics may reduce print quality and increase costs due to additional preparation or ink usage.
    • Garment Color: Light-colored garments are more affordable to print because they don’t require a white underbase. Dark garments need an additional layer of white ink for vibrant colors, which increases ink usage and overall cost.

    4. Turnaround Time

    How quickly you need your order can also influence pricing:

     

    • Standard Production: Typically, DTG orders are completed within 5–7 business days at standard rates across the industry. At Yes We Print, however, our standard production time is just 2 business days, making it one of the fastest in the industry. What others call "rush," we deliver as standard, ensuring your orders arrive quickly and efficiently without additional fees.
    • Rush Orders: Need your order faster? Expedited production usually comes with hefty fees across the industry, adding significant costs to your project. At Yes We Print, we guarantee faster and more affordable rush services. Our priority printing ensures your order is completed with speed and precision, so you never have to worry about missing a deadline—without overpaying for quality.


    At Yes We Print, we simplify these variables by offering transparent pricing with no surprises. Whether you need one shirt or a bulk order, light or dark garments, or standard or rush production, we ensure you receive the best quality at the lowest price in the market.

    Are There Discounts for Bulk Orders with DTG Printing?

    Yes, bulk orders with DTG printing often come with significant cost benefits. While DTG is typically known for its flexibility with small orders, larger quantities allow for more efficient production, which reduces the per-shirt price.


    For example:

     

    • A single custom T-shirt may cost $15–$30, depending on the design and garment type.
    • In contrast, bulk orders of 50 or more can bring the cost down to as low as $8–$12 per shirt.


    At Yes We Print, we offer the industry’s best bulk discount rates, ensuring that you save more as your order size increases. Whether it’s 10 shirts or 1,000, we provide unbeatable value without compromising on quality.

    How Does DTG Compare to Screen Printing for Larger Volumes?

    For larger orders, screen printing often becomes the more cost-effective option due to its ability to quickly reproduce the same design across hundreds or thousands of garments. However, DTG still holds several advantages in certain cases:

     

    • No Setup Costs: Screen printing requires creating physical screens for each design, which can add significant upfront costs. DTG avoids this entirely, making it ideal for bulk orders with varied designs.
    • Unlimited Colors: DTG handles complex, multicolored artwork at no extra charge, while screen printing costs increase with each additional color.


    At Yes We Print, we help you weigh the benefits of DTG versus screen printing based on your specific needs and budget. Whether you choose DTG for its detail or screen printing for its efficiency, we guarantee the best prices and the highest-quality results in the industry.

    Is There a Minimum Order Quantity for DTG Printing?

    One of the key benefits of DTG printing is that it doesn’t require a minimum order. Unlike screen printing, which often involves high setup costs and minimum quantities, DTG printing lets you order as few as one T-shirt without any extra fees. This makes it perfect for small projects, personalized gifts, or one-off designs.


    At Yes We Print, you can order exactly what you need—whether it’s a single shirt or a small batch for an event. We ensure the same high-quality printing and competitive pricing regardless of the quantity. This flexibility means you’re not forced to order in bulk, saving you time, money, and the hassle of managing unwanted extras.


    With Yes We Print, no order is too small, and you still benefit from the lowest prices in the industry for even the smallest quantities.

    Why is DTG Printing More Expensive for Dark Garments?

    DTG printing on dark garments tends to be more expensive due to the additional steps and resources required to achieve vibrant and high-quality results. The key factor is the need for a white ink under base.

    What is a White Ink Underbase?

    When printing on dark-colored fabrics, the colors of the design need a solid foundation to stand out. Without this underbase, the ink would soak into the dark fabric, making the colors look dull and washed out. The white underbase acts as a primer, ensuring that colors appear bright and vivid, regardless of the garment's color.


    How Does This Affect Cost?

     

    • Increased Ink Usage: Printing a white underbase significantly increases the amount of ink used, which directly impacts the overall cost. Dark garments require more layers of ink compared to light-colored ones, which only need the design itself.
    • Longer Production Time: Adding the white underbase means the printer has to apply an extra layer before printing the actual design. This adds time to the production process, which can also contribute to higher costs.


    At Yes We Print, we ensure that even dark garment printing is done with the highest precision and care, using advanced equipment to deliver vibrant designs that pop. While dark garments do require additional steps, we guarantee industry-leading prices and a transparent breakdown of costs, so you know exactly what you’re paying for and why.

    Which Fabrics Work Best for DTG Printing, and How Do They Affect Pricing?

    The type of fabric used plays a critical role in the quality and cost of DTG printing. While DTG works on a variety of materials, some fabrics produce better results than others, and these differences can impact the overall price.

    Why is 100% Cotton Preferred for DTG Printing?

    DTG printing performs best on 100% cotton garments because the natural fibers absorb water-based inks more effectively. This leads to:

     

    • Brighter Colors: Cotton provides a solid surface for the ink to bond with, resulting in vibrant and crisp prints.
    • Smooth Printing Process: Cotton fabrics minimize issues like ink smearing or inconsistent adhesion.

     

    Additionally, printing on 100% cotton is often more cost-efficient because the process is faster and requires less ink compared to synthetic or blended materials.

    Challenges with Synthetic or Blended Fabrics

    DTG printing can be done on blended or synthetic fabrics, but these materials pose certain challenges:

     

    • Lower Absorption: Blends with high polyester content don’t absorb water-based inks as well as cotton, leading to less vibrant results.
    • Additional Pre-Treatment: Printing on blends often requires extra pre-treatment steps to improve ink adhesion, which increases production time and costs.
    • Cost Implications: Because of the extra labor and materials involved, printing on synthetic or blended fabrics typically costs more than printing on 100% cotton.


    At Yes We Print, we recommend 100% cotton garments for the best DTG results at the most affordable prices. However, if your project requires synthetic or blended fabrics, we ensure every piece is pre-treated and printed with care to achieve the highest quality possible. Whatever your fabric choice, we offer transparent pricing so you understand the cost implications upfront.

    Can I Order Just One T-shirt with DTG Printing?

    Yes, you can! DTG printing is perfect for single-item or personalized orders with no minimum quantity required. Whether it’s a one-off custom T-shirt for a gift or a special occasion, DTG ensures vibrant, high-quality results every time.

    At Yes We Print, we guarantee the best prices for single-item orders while delivering exceptional quality and detail.

    How Does Design Complexity Affect DTG Printing Costs?

    With DTG printing, design complexity doesn’t impact the cost. Whether your design includes intricate details, gradients, or unlimited colors, DTG handles it all seamlessly without additional charges. This is because DTG uses digital technology to print directly onto the fabric, eliminating the need for added steps or materials for more complex designs.


    At Yes We Print, we guarantee the best prices for all designs—whether simple or highly detailed—while maintaining vibrant, high-quality results.

    How Does DTG Pricing Compare to Screen Printing?

    The choice between DTG and screen printing often comes down to your order size and design details:

     

    • For Small Orders: DTG is more affordable and convenient. It doesn’t require setup fees or minimum quantities, making it perfect for one-off prints or small batches with no extra cost for multi-colored or detailed designs.
    • For Bulk Orders: Screen printing can be more cost-effective for large quantities with simple designs because it’s faster and uses less ink overall. However, DTG is better for bulk orders with intricate, multi-colored artwork since it doesn’t charge extra for design complexity.


    At Yes We Print, we offer expert guidance to help you choose the most cost-efficient option for your project, paired with unmatched pricing and quality for both DTG and screen printing.

    Are There Hidden Costs in DTG Printing?

    While some providers may include hidden costs in their DTG pricing, such as additional charges for rush orders, unique garments, or multicolored designs, that’s not the case with Yes We Print.


    We pride ourselves on complete transparency, so you know exactly what you’re paying for upfront. Our pricing is straightforward, with no surprise fees. Whether you need a quick turnaround, dark garments requiring a white ink under base, or intricate designs, we provide a clear breakdown of all costs to ensure you get the best value without any hidden charges.


    With Yes We Print, what you see is what you get—exceptional quality at the best prices in the industry with total transparency.

    How Can I Save Money on DTG Printing?

    Here are some simple ways to reduce your DTG printing costs:

     

    • Choose Light-Colored Garments: Printing on light fabrics costs less because it doesn’t require extra white ink, saving on production costs.
    • Simplify Your Design: While DTG can handle complex artwork, simpler designs can use less ink, making them more affordable.
    • Plan Ahead: Avoid rush fees by placing your order early. At Yes We Print, our standard 2-day turnaround is already one of the fastest in the industry, helping you save without extra costs.


    These tips, combined with Yes We Print’s transparent pricing and lowest price guarantee, ensure you get top-quality prints without overspending.

    Is DTG Printing Worth the Cost?

    DTG printing isn’t just about putting a design on a shirt—it’s about capturing a moment, a purpose, a message, or a brand. It’s for those who need precision, who want every detail to stand out, and who refuse to compromise on quality, whether for one shirt or a hundred.


    At Yes We Print, we understand that every order is personal. That’s why we’ve built our service around what matters most to you: speed, affordability, and unmatched quality. Need one shirt for a last-minute event? We’ve got you. Launching a bold new design for your business? We’ll help you make it unforgettable.


    This isn’t about cutting corners or settling for average. It’s about getting the best printing, at the best price, delivered when you need it. Because when it comes to your designs, you shouldn’t have to compromise.


    Ready to get started? Let Yes We Print handle your printing needs, so you can focus on making an impact. We’re here to print more than shirts—we’re here to help you succeed.

     

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