In this method an image, usually up to 4 line colours, is printed within a given area, directly onto the rotating body of the mug.
This method is used when:

The design is simple.
There are no complex half-tones - although some half-tones can be direct printed.
The registration is not over demanding.
The design is not required to be larger than the print area.
Printing earthenware mugs.

There are limitations with this process and it is primarily used for the low budget side of the market. A direct printer can print several thousand prints per day, as compared with the slower, hand decorated transfer process.