Fabric type directly affects how ink bonds to a garment. Natural fibers like cotton absorb water-based inks well, making them ideal for DTG. Synthetic fabrics like polyester need heat-transfer methods like DTF or sublimation, since standard inks don't bond properly to them. Matching the method to the fabric is what guarantees a clean, lasting print.
- Cotton: Best for DTG and screen printing; absorbs ink cleanly
- Polyester: Best for sublimation and DTF; resists water-based inks
- Blends: Versatile, but results shift with the cotton-to-poly ratio
- Dark garments: Often need a white ink underbase for colors to show
