Direct To Film Printing

Direct to Film printing, also known as DFT or DTF, is exactly what it sounds like: a cutting-edge printing method where your design is printed onto a special film and then transferred onto your clothing. This process has revolutionized the printing industry, offering exceptional print quality and flexibility across a wide range of garment types.

Using a DTF printer, we print your artwork on PET film using high-quality DTF ink. Then we apply a special adhesive powder over the wet ink, cure it, and finally use a heat press to transfer the design onto the fabric. This results in crisp, vibrant prints that hold up wash after wash.

Compared to other printing methods like DTG printing or screen printing, DTF stands out for its simplicity, versatility, and ability to print on materials like cotton fabrics, polyester, and even denim, with no pre-treatment required.

The DTF printing method is all about efficiency and flexibility:

1. Your design is printed using a DTF printer onto a special film with DTF ink.
2. While the ink is still wet, we apply a thin layer of powder.
3. The film is then transferred to a curing oven or heated to set the adhesive.
4. After curing, the printed DTF film is applied to your garment using a heat press, locking the image in place.

This printing technique is capable of printing vibrant colors and fine details onto textile surfaces with minimal effort. DTF transfers are particularly great for t-shirt printing, sportswear, and promotional wear, especially when using the best printing equipment available, like the ones in our DTF printer collection.

Here’s why DTF works so well for custom printing:

• Amazing Print Quality: Bold, durable colors and fine details, even on dark fabrics.
• No Fancy File Requirements: We accept PNG and JPEG, no need to convert to vector.
• Highly Versatile: Works on cotton, nylon, leather, and more.
• Durable Results: The prints won’t peel or crack, making them perfect for everyday wear.
• Fast Turnaround: Fewer setup steps and better results than methods like DTG printing.

Thanks to advanced DTF equipment, this method offers consistent results and allows you to put the design onto all kinds of textile printing projects.

Like every printing process, DTF printing comes with a few limitations:

• Limited Printing Areas: Because pressure and heat must be applied evenly, printing over seams, zippers, or uneven surfaces isn’t ideal. If you need to print in tricky spots, embroidery might be a better choice.
• No Gradient Borders: We can print gradients inside your design, but the outer edges must have a hard line; peel lines need to be clean and distinct.

But don’t worry, our team will work with you to ensure the best results for your custom apparel.

Keep your prints looking fresh with these simple tips:

• Wash inside out with cold water.
• Dry on low heat or hang dry.
• Iron inside out, never directly on the direct-to-film transfer.
• Avoid bleach and dry cleaning.

This care routine helps preserve the adhesive, keep the design on the fabric, and maintain your DTF print for the long haul.