Print quality on a dark shirt is not the same as print quality on a white shirt. This distinction causes more customer disappointment than any other single factor.

White and light garments: DTG ink absorbs directly. Full color reproduction, bright whites, fine gradients: all achievable without special treatment.

Dark garments: Require a white base layer (underbase) before the color ink is applied. This adds cost and processing time, but without it colors appear washed out or disappear entirely. When you see "DTG on dark garments" at a lower price, ask if the underbase is included.

Color matching: DTG printing is CMYK-based, not Pantone. Exact corporate color matches (like a specific brand blue or red) are approximations. For strict brand compliance, screen printing or embroidery with Pantone thread gives better color fidelity.

Texture effects: Heathered and tri-blend fabrics create a natural texture visible through the print. Some brands love this; some don't. Know what you're getting.

Practical rule: white and light grey shirts give you the most print flexibility and the lowest cost. Every step toward darker garments adds process complexity.