DTG Printing in Cape Coral, FL
Polkabean offers DTG (direct to garment) printing in house in Cape Coral, Florida. We print your artwork straight onto the shirt, so you get a soft, full-color design with no film or heavy layer on top. It is made for cotton tees, hoodies and sweatshirts, and it works for one shirt or many.
What is DTG printing?
DTG works like an inkjet printer for fabric. The garment is loaded into the printer and water-based ink is sprayed directly onto it. The ink soaks into the fibers instead of sitting on top, which is why DTG feels so soft.
DTG handles detail very well. Photos, gradients, shading and many colors in one design are no problem, and there is no per-color charge.
We print with an Epson SureColor F2270, a garment printer that uses UltraChrome DG2 ink, which is OEKO-TEX ECO PASSPORT certified.
Best uses for DTG
- Cotton and high-cotton blend tees, hoodies and sweatshirts.
- Artwork with lots of color or fine detail, such as illustrations, photos and watercolor looks.
- Custom one-offs and gifts, like a single personalized shirt.
- Small batches such as family reunions, birthdays and small groups.
- Test runs of a new design before ordering in bulk.
DTG vs. DTF vs. screen printing
- DTG: softest feel and best detail on cotton. Ideal for small quantities.
- DTF: works on polyester and performance wear. Best when the fabric isn't cotton.
- Screen printing: best value for large orders of a simple design, such as VBS or event shirts in the dozens or hundreds.
We'll recommend the right method for your garment, design and quantity. There's no pressure to pick one yourself.
Getting the best DTG result
- Choose the right fabric. 100% cotton gives the richest color. Heavily polyester fabrics should be printed with DTF instead.
- Use high-resolution art. A PNG with a transparent background at print size, at least 300 dpi. Vector files such as AI, SVG or PDF are great for logos.
- Think about garment color. DTG works on light and dark garments. Dark garments get an underbase layer so colors stay bright.
Artwork needs a little work? Send what you have and we'll clean it up for you. Artwork cleanup is free.
How ordering works
- Send us your design and details through our quote form.
- We send you a proof to approve.
- We print your order in house.
- Most orders ship within 3-5 business days after you approve your proof.
Local pickup is available in Cape Coral. Contact us for more information.
Caring for DTG prints
Wash inside out in cold water and tumble dry on low or hang dry. Avoid bleach, and don't iron directly on the print. This keeps colors bright and the print soft.
DTG printing FAQ
Is there a minimum order?
No. DTG is ideal for single pieces and small runs.
Does DTG feel heavy or stiff?
No. The ink soaks into the fabric, so the print is soft and breathable.
Can you print on polyester or performance shirts?
DTG isn't the best fit. We use DTF for those fabrics.
Which is cheaper for 50 or more shirts, DTG or screen printing?
For larger runs of a simple design, screen printing is usually the better value. Send us your quantity and we'll compare options.
Can I order a custom design for my church, clinic or team?
Yes. See our VBS shirts and ABA clinic apparel pages for examples.
Comparing methods? Read our guide: DTG vs Screen Printing vs Embroidery: Which Fits Your Order?.
Ready to start? Request a quote or call 941-270-3012.
Polkabean, 2648 NW 9th Ter, Cape Coral, FL 33993.