This article by Kieth Stevens, recently published in the April 2016 issue of Impressions Magazine is Part 1 of a 2-part article.  We’ll publish Part 2 later:
When it comes to screen printing — specifically inks — I am often asked, “What’s new?” or “What’s trending?” My initial thoughts are, “What has been forgotten?” or “What hasn’t the customer seen?”
Then, I reflect on discussions I’ve recently had with customers, what I’ve seen in stores and what I’ve discussed with our research-and-development department.The answers often are easy, but sometimes they’re not, because as soon as I think I have an understanding or clue of what’s ahead, I’m blindsided by what I see on the streets or retail racks.

Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is unique among garment decorating techniques because the garments will, in part, determine the quality of the final image. In other words, printing on a suitable garment will give you the potential for a perfect, bright, vibrant image. Printing on an unsuitable garment will result in a less-than-ideal image, regardless of the other variables you change. 

You probably have seen a variety of shirts with designs that include incredible detail, vibrant colors and beautiful, bright prints. They make you do a double-take and wonder, "How did they do that?"
Unless you are a master screen printer with years of production and art-separation experience, one of the best ways to achieve such incredible results is with digital direct-to-garment (DTG) printing. But the key to success goes beyond the kind of printer or shirt brand used. Starting your job with the right type of art is critical for these "wow-factor" prints. 

To that end, let's look at the basic types of art needed for DTG printing, the correct formats to use and how to optimize files for best results.