But what exactly is DTF printing?

Since 2020, more and more we hear people talking about a new printing technique, also called Direct to Film or DTF. This innovative process and approach offers many advantages.

But what is DTF printing? This concept comes from a mix between the Direct to Garment (DTG) printing method and the Digital Screen Transfer (DST) method. In essence, DTF printing is an inverted DTG printing in the manner of a screen printing stencil.

DTF printing: a perfect combination between DTG and DST.

The birth of the Direct to Film printing technique comes from a mix between DTG printing and DST printing. In this new method, only the strengths and advantages of each method are preserved, leading to excellent final results.

During this process, designs are transferred to fabrics or other substrates using a heat press mechanism. Unlike the DTG method, which only works on cotton fabrics, the DTF printing method can work on both cotton and polyester blended fabrics.

Why choose DTF printing?

As the name of the method itself says, direct to film printing allows you to print a design on a film and transfer it directly to the surface you want, such as a fabric. The main reason DTF printing is becoming more and more popular is because it provides freedom and gives you the ability to choose between any surface to print on.

With this technology, you can easily print on cotton, polyester, synthetic or silk fabrics without any problems. In addition, DTF printers work by printing on both dark and light and white fabrics without the need to press on expensive A & B paper.

One reason to choose DTF printing technology in your business is that it does not require a huge investment. Whether you’re new to the industry or looking to switch to DTF printing to expand your business, it’s definitely worth it.

Advantages of the DTF method

• Suitable for a variety of materials

Although DTG printing works best on 100% cotton fabrics, DTF can be used on many different fabric materials: cotton, nylon, treated leather, polyester, 50/50 blends, and both light and dark fabrics.

DTF can also be applied to different types of surfaces such as luggage, shoes, and even glass, wood, and metal.

• No pretreatment required

If you have any experience with a DTG printer, you might be familiar with the pre-treatment process (not to mention the drying times). The thermal melting power applied in the DTF method transfers and binds the print directly to the material, which eliminates the need for pre-treatment.

• Reduce the use of white ink

The DTF method requires less white ink, approximately 40 percent white ink, whereas DTG printing requires 200 percent white ink. White ink tends to be more expensive because it is used more. Therefore, reducing the white ink used in printing can save money.

• Wide color range:

Direct to film printing can achieve vibrant colors with high saturation, making it ideal for printing multicolored designs and graphics.

• Detailed Prints:

DTF printing can produce fine details and small text, making it suitable for complex designs.

• Good for small versions:

DTF printing is a good choice for small runs of custom designs as there is no need for minimum order quantities.

• No pretreatment needed:

Unlike other printing methods such as DTG (direct-to-garment) printing, DTF printing does not require fabric pre-treatment before printing, which can save time and money.

• It can print on various surfaces:

DTF printing can be used on a variety of surfaces including cotton, polyester and blends.

Disadvantages:

• Startup Cost:

DTF printing requires specialized equipment such as a DTF printer and heat press, which can be expensive.

• Learning curve:

DTF printing is a relatively new printing method and requires specialized skills and knowledge to operate the equipment and achieve high quality results.

• Longer production time:

Compared to other printing methods such as screen printing, DTF printing can take longer to produce an individual garment due to the need to print onto the film and transfer it to the fabric.

• Film cost:

The special film used in DTF printing can be expensive, which can affect the overall cost of the final product.

Overall, DTF printing can be a good choice for small runs of highly detailed designs with vibrant colors. However, the initial investment in equipment and film costs should be considered when deciding whether to use this printing method.