What is DTF printing?
Direct to Film (DTF) printing is a process that allows you to transfer graphics onto various fabrics using a special printer, film, and adhesive powder. It was developed for labeling and branding textile products. Unlike other methods such as screen printing or DTG (Direct to Garment) printing, DTF printing offers greater flexibility by working seamlessly on a wide range of materials, including cotton, polyester, blended fabrics, colored or dark textile surfaces, and even non-textile surfaces.
How does DTF printing work?
The DTF process consists of a few simple but highly effective steps:
- Edit graphics: Create the design you want to print in a graphics program (Canva, Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.) and then prepare it in a printable file format.
- Print on foil: Open the file in your RIP software and print the graphics onto the special DTF film with vibrant, pigment-based inks.
- Powder application: After printing, a special adhesive powder must be applied to the print, this can be done manually or if you have an automatic printing system, the drying unit will do it for you.
- Curing: Powder coated prints must be allowed to pass through the drying unit at the appropriate temperature so that the powder melts, absorbs the dye pigments and then dries, if you have a printing system this will also be automatic.
- Transfer: Place the film on the material and transfer the pattern with a heat press. We recommend setting it to 165°C and 15 seconds. Depending on the type of DTF film, peel it off cold or hot and the labeled product is ready.
Advantages of DTF printing
Versatile
One of the biggest advantages of DTF printing is that it can be used on almost any textile. Whether it is cotton, polyester, mixed fiber materials or dark, colored textiles, you can easily label all of them with DTF technology. For example, in addition to T-shirts and sweatshirts, we have printed socks, vests, rain jackets, sportswear, ties, hats and even umbrellas with DTF.
Durable
DTF prints are known for their extreme durability. The prints resist cracking, fading or peeling over time, ensuring long-lasting results that customers will love. In general, products printed in this way can withstand 60-70 washes very well.
Cost-effective
Unlike screen printing, which has fixed tooling costs, or DTG technology, where printing full prints is extremely expensive, these are still the winning technologies for large-volume orders. DTF printing is perfect for small-volume orders. It is an affordable way to create unique designs without breaking the bank.
High-quality prints
With DTF printing, you get vivid colors, sharp details, and a soft hand feel. With DTF printing, even the smallest details are perfectly visible, such as thin lines and small fonts. These are often not possible with other technologies
How does DTF compare to other printing methods?
While screen printing and sublimation are essential elements of the industry, DTF printing is quickly becoming the favorite due to its unique advantages. Here’s how it works:
DTF vs DTG: Unlike DTG, which works best on cotton, DTF is suitable for a wider range of fabrics. Another difference is that for saturated prints, DTG technology is extremely expensive due to high ink costs.
DTF vs Sublimation: Sublimation is limited to white or light-colored polyester fabrics, while DTF prints look great on dark or colored fabrics, and no pre-treatment is required with DTF.
DTF vs Screen Printing: Screen printing is ideal for high volume, but DTF is more flexible and cost-effective for small to medium runs.
DTF printing is not just a trend; it’s a revolutionary technology that’s here to stay. Whether you’re starting a new business or looking to expand your current offering, DTF is a great way to create stunning, long-lasting prints that your customers will love.