What is DTF Printing?

DTF serves as a valuable addition to our current printing methods, particularly excelling in customizing athleisure and sportswear garments. But what exactly does DTF mean? What is the process involved? And which products are best suited for this printing method? Let's delve deeper into the world of DTF printing.

 

 

What does DTF mean?

 

Direct to Film, known as DTF, is exactly as the name suggests. Designs are printed onto a film using a specialist printer. Then the prints are directly transferred onto the garment via a heat press.

 

DTF provides a high degree of accuracy with an exact replication of the original design on a wide variety of fabric types.

 

 

How does DTF printing work?

 

The flawless execution of DTF printing involves a series of precise steps to consistently achieve outstanding results.

 

Step one – Print on the Film

 

Our skilled artwork team begins by reviewing the design, which is then sent to our DTF printers. These printers are equipped with specialized film for printing. Initially, a full outline of the design is printed entirely in white. Subsequently, the colors of the design are printed on top of the white layer. This process is crucial to achieving vibrancy and complete accuracy in representing the colors used in the design. The white layer remains invisible unless the design includes white elements.

 

Step two – Powder Applied

 

After the printing process, a powder is evenly applied to the film, covering the entire printed design. This powder is crucial as it acts as the 'glue' holding the design onto the clothing during the heat-pressing stage. The powder must then undergo curing.

 

Step three – Transfer

 

In just 15 seconds, the film with the printed design and powder is placed into one of our heat presses. After being subjected to 170 degrees for 15 seconds, the film securely adheres to the clothing.

 

Step four – Film Peeling

 

Once the design has cooled post-transfer, the film is peeled off, leaving behind a meticulously completed DTF application.

 

DTF is an exceptionally versatile printing option that can be used on various garment types and styles. It is suitable for printing on materials such as cotton, nylon, polyester, and 50/50 blends, among others. DTF is capable of printing on both light and dark fabrics.

 

What can DTF Print On?

 

For instance, applying customizations on polyester garments can be challenging with alternative print methods like direct-to-garment printing. The vibrant colors and design accuracy may be compromised when printing directly onto polyester. However, the DTF process ensures true-to-design customizations on materials that are traditionally more difficult to print.

 

Is DTF Good Quality?

 

Yes, DTF produces high-quality prints. DTF prints are realistic and true to the original design, making them an excellent option for complex designs.

 

DTF prints are highly durable and withstand washing effectively. They do not crack or peel easily, making them ideal for heavy-use items like sportswear. Additionally, DTF prints have a soft feel and are flexible, ensuring that the customizations do not impact the comfort of the garment on which they are applied.