What is DTF?

DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing is a modern printing technique that transfers designs onto textiles or other surfaces using special films and adhesives.

What is DTF?

• What it is: A printing technology used in the garment and textile industry.
• How it works: Designs are printed onto a special film and then transferred onto fabric using heat and adhesive powder.
• Advantages:
  • Works on various materials, including cotton, polyester, and blends.
  • Durable prints with vibrant colors.
  • Cost-effective for small production runs.

Direct-to-Film (DTF) Printing is a modern printing method used primarily for creating high-quality designs on textiles. It is an alternative to traditional methods like screen printing and Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing, offering several unique advantages.

1. Design Creation:
   • A digital design is created using graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator).
2. Printing the Design:
   • The design is printed onto a specialized PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film using a DTF printer.
   • The printer uses water-based pigment inks, applied in layers, starting with color and followed by white ink for opacity.
3. Application of Adhesive Powder:
   • While the ink on the film is still wet, an adhesive powder (often called "hot melt powder") is sprinkled over the design.
   • The powder ensures that the design adheres to the fabric during the transfer process.
4. Curing:
   • The film with adhesive powder is heat-cured to activate the adhesive. This step solidifies the adhesive and prepares the transfer for application.
5. Transfer to Fabric:
   • The cured design is placed on the fabric, and heat and pressure are applied using a heat press.
   • The heat activates the adhesive, bonding the design to the fabric.
6. Peeling the Film:
   • Once cooled, the PET film is peeled away, leaving a vibrant and durable design on the fabric.

1. Versatility:
   • Can print on a wide range of materials, including cotton, polyester, blends, and even leather.
2. Vibrant and Durable Prints:
   • Produces vivid colors and high-detail images with excellent durability.
3. No Pre-Treatment Needed:
   • Unlike DTG printing, fabrics don’t require pre-treatment.
4. Cost-Effective:
   • Ideal for small production runs or custom designs.
5. Ease of Use:
   • The process is straightforward, and specialized equipment is widely available.

• Custom T-shirt printing.
• Personalized merchandise.
• Sportswear and uniform customization.
• Small business or hobbyist use.