Why DTG Printing With Epson Is a Game-Changer for Aussie Custom Apparel
Why DTG Printing With Epson Is a Game-Changer for Aussie Custom Apparel
By Right Lane Print & Media
When it comes to custom apparel, not all printing methods are created equal — and not all printers are, either. At Right Lane Print & Media, we run two Epson F2160 DTG printers and one Epson F3000, giving us a professional setup that produces the highest-quality direct-to-garment prints available in Australia.
DTG has grown massively over the last few years, and for good reason. It’s become the go-to option for customers who want soft, breathable, retail-quality prints that look and feel premium… especially in warm Australian weather.
If you’ve never heard of DTG before, or you’re trying to choose between DTG and DTF for your next print job, here’s a simple breakdown of why DTG is such a good choice.
What Is DTG Printing?
DTG (Direct to Garment) is exactly what it sounds like — professional equipment prints the ink directly into the fibres of the fabric, similar to how high-end retail tees are made.
Unlike vinyl, transfers or cheaper heat-pressed methods, DTG doesn’t sit on top of the fabric it's organic and breathes just like the fabric.
That’s where the magic happens.
Why We Choose Epson DTG Printers
Epson is the industry leader for DTG, and there’s a reason most print shops upgrade to them once they get serious. The F2160 and F3000 produce:
- Sharp, clean detail
- Vibrant colour reproduction
- Exceptional wash durability
- Soft-touch prints that breathe
We run:
- 2 × Epson F2160 (brilliant for fast, quality runs)
- 1 × Epson F3000 (our commercial-grade workhorse built for volume)
This setup allows us to produce both small runs and larger batches with consistent retail-level results.
Why DTG Is a Better Choice for T-Shirts in Australian Weather
Let’s be honest — Aussie heat can be brutal. The last thing anyone wants is a thick, plasticky print stuck to their chest all day.
This is where DTG wins:
✔ Soft, breathable print
DTG feels like the artwork is woven into the tee, not glued on top.
✔ No heavy vinyl feel
DTF has its place (we use it daily for uniforms, hi-vis, bags and poly fabrics), but on t-shirts it can feel heavier, especially in warm weather.
✔ Better comfort for everyday wear
Whether it's for a business, race team, merch line or event, DTG stays comfortable from the first wear to the twentieth wash.
We Print on AS Colour for a Reason
We’ve tested a huge range of garments over the years, but AS Colour is hands-down the best for DTG.
Why?
- Smooth, high-quality cotton surface
- Consistent sizing and fabric quality
- Better colour vibrancy
- Longer-lasting prints
- More comfortable for customers
Your design deserves the best garment underneath it — and AS Colour delivers every time.
Perfect for Everyone — From One-Offs to Full Brands
DTG suits almost every type of customer we work with, including:
- Small business owners
- Race teams
- Car and bike clubs
- Schools and community groups
- Influencers and creators
- Clothing brands
- Event merch
-
Print on Demand (POD) brands
(This deserves its own blog — and we can absolutely dive deeper into how we run POD for clients.)
Because DTG doesn’t require screens, films or large setup fees, it’s perfect for small batches and one-offs too.
DTG vs DTF — What We Actually Recommend
We use both DTG and DTF every single day, and here’s the truth:
DTG for T-Shirts
✔ Best comfort
✔ Best softness
✔ Best breathability
✔ Best long-term feel
✔ Best for premium brands
DTF for Other Garments
✔ Polyester
✔ Workwear
✔ Hi-vis
✔ Bags, jackets, umbrellas
✔ Stretch fabrics
✔ Items that can’t go on a DTG platen
DTF is brilliant in its space — but we don’t recommend it for t-shirts unless the job requires it.
Nothing beats DTG for comfort and feel on cotton tees.
Why Choose Right Lane Print & Media for DTG?
The truth is, not every print shop is actually printing in-house. A lot of backyard setups and small operators just order cheap DTF transfers from overseas and heat press them on — which isn’t the same as DTG at all.
When you order from us, you’re getting:
- Over seven years of hands-on printing experience
- Professional Epson DTG machines (not hobby units)
- In-house production — we print every job ourselves
- Premium AS Colour garments
- Quality control at every step
- Consistent colour, detail and wash durability
- Faster turnaround with no third-party delays
You get true, retail-quality prints, made properly, by people who do this day in, day out.
Ready to Get Something Printed?
Whether you’re a business looking for uniforms, a race team needing merch, or a creator wanting to start your own line, DTG is one of the best options for comfort, colour, and quality.
If you want prints that feel good, look great and last — you’re in the right place.
Reach out to us at Right Lane Print & Media and we’ll get you sorted.
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