Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing is a versatile technology that involves printing designs onto a special film for transfer to garments. Its thermal transfer process allows for durability similar to that of traditional screen printing.
How does DTF work?
DTF works by printing transfers on film that are then heat pressed onto a variety of garments. While DTG (direct-to-garment) technology is only available for cotton fabrics, there are many other materials that are compatible with DTF printing.
DTF printers are inexpensive compared to DTG or screen printing technologies. For best results, DTF powder, printable double-sided cold peel PET film (for printing transfer films) and high quality DTF printing ink are required.
Why is DTF becoming more and more popular?
DTF printing offers greater versatility than other printing technologies. DTF can be printed on a variety of fabrics, including cotton, nylon, rayon, polyester, leather, silk and more.
DTF printing has revolutionized the textile industry and updated textile creation for the digital age. The DTF printing process is simple: digital artwork is created, printed on film, and then transferred to fabric.
More advantages of DTF printing
1. it is easy to learn
2. No fabric pre-treatment is required
3. the process uses about 75% less ink
4. Better print quality
5. Compatible with many types of materials
6. Unmatched quality and high productivity
7. Requires less space than other technologies
8. DTF printing is ideal for small and medium-sized businesses
9. The DTF process allows creators to start working faster than DTG or screen printing technologies.
On top of that, the simple four-step DTF process produces fabrics with a softer hand and greater resistance to washing.
Step 1: Insert the PET film into the printer tray and print.
Step 2: Lay the hot melt powder on the film with the image printed on it.
Step 3: Melt the powder.
Step 4: Pre-press the fabric.
Designing a DTF print is as easy as designing on paper: your design is sent from your computer to the DTF machine, and the printer does the rest. Although DTF printers look different from traditional paper printers, they function much like other inkjet printers.
In contrast, screen printing involves dozens of steps, which means it is usually cost-effective for only the simplest designs or for printing large quantities of items.
While screen printing still has a place in the apparel industry, DTF printing is more affordable for small businesses or textile organizations that want to make smaller orders.
DTF printing offers more design options
Due to the high volume of work, screen printing complex patterns is not feasible. However, with DTF printing technology, printing complex and multi-color graphics is different from printing simple designs.
DTF also makes it possible for creators to create DIY hats, handbags and other items.
DTF printing is more sustainable and less costly than other methods
As the fashion industry becomes more concerned with sustainability, another advantage of DTF printing over traditional printing is its highly sustainable technology.
DTF printing helps prevent overproduction, which is a common problem in the textile industry. In addition, the inks used in digital direct-jet printers are water-based and environmentally friendly.
DTF printing allows for one-off designs and eliminates the waste of unsold inventory.
