DTF printing is known for its long-lasting results compared to sublimation. The ink in DTF stands out from the fabric, ensuring it remains vibrant over time. On the other hand, sublimation printing blends the ink with the fabric, which can cause it to fade as the fabric fades. With DTF, you can enjoy prints that retain their boldness and color for an extended period.
Direct To Film (DTF) Printing
With cutting edge DTF Printing technology, you can unleash vibrant designs that capture attention and drive sales.
What is Direct To Film Printing?
DTF Printing, short for Direct To Film Printing, is a revolutionary technique that allows us to print a design directly onto a film. This design is then transferred with heat press and powder to various material types, including cotton, polyester, blends, ceramics or metals, regardless of their color.
The unique approach of the technique allows you to bring your designs, even those with white elements, to life with exceptional accuracy, detail and vibrancy .
DTF Printing works by using a special film and heat to carry the design to the substrat.
1. Design Preparation
You let your creativity soar as you create or select a digital design that you want to print on the desired material.
2. Film Printing
We print your amazing design onto a specialized heat transfer PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film designed for DTF Printing using a compatible printer, using special water based pigment inks.
3. Adhesive Layer
We print your amazing design onto a specialized heat transfer PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film designed for DTF Printing using a compatible printer, using special water based pigment inks.
4. Film Transfer
We carefully position the film with the adhesive side facing down onto the material, ensuring proper alignment and a perfect look.
5. Heat Press
We use a heat press machine to apply heat and pressure to the film and material. The heat activates the adhesive, causing a bond to be formed.
6. Curing Process
Curing Process: We maintain the required heat and pressure for a specific duration, allowing the design to first transfer from the film to the material and then cure, resulting in a vibrant and durable print.
7. Peel Off
Once the curing process is complete and the material cooled down, we carefully peel off the film, leaving behind your design on the substrate.
8. Optional Post-Treatment
We may undertake additional steps like washing, drying, or applying protective coatings to enhance the quality and longevity of the print depending on the specific requirements.
Why should you prefer DTF, the Pros:
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Direct To Film Printing presents unparalleled print quality. Your designs will be as vivid, and sharp as you made them, which will make a lasting impression on your customers.
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Your customers will receive products that showcase exceptional quality. They will maintain their vibrant appearance even after extended use and repeated washes.
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DTF Printing offers unmatched customization options, allowing you to personalize a wide range of products. You can create unique designs that cater to the preferences of your customers, from t-shirts to hoodies, from ceramic to metal, from glass to accessories and more.
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The flexibility of DTF Printing empowers us to handle various design requirements. Whether you need complex multicolored designs or simple graphics printed, DTF Printing by Awkward Styles delivers excellent results.
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DTF Printing does not require pre-treatment, and this speeds up the order fulfillment time.
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DTF Printing process uses white ink in addition to the standard cyan, magenta, yellow & black (CMYK) pigments, which allows it to present the white color.
When you should not go with DTF, the Cons:
- The printing process is more complex than other techniques, requiring manual efforts for precision. This makes DTF less suitable for large scale printing.
- While initially they will have a slightly stiff feel, like HTV, they will soften after a few washes, ensuring optimal comfort for the wearer.
- Depending on the design, there is a more noticeable print area compared to that of sublimation printing.
- DTF has a lower color vibrancy than sublimation printing. The artwork can degrade over 50+ washes.
Where can you start using DTF for your products?
You can seize this opportunity to stay ahead in the competitive ecommerce market. Awkward Styles is here to support you every step of the way, providing top-notch Direct To Film Printing services and expertise.
Integrating DTF Printing into your Print On Demand business is a game-changer for any size of business. The vivid designs, superior print quality, and unmatched customization options will set you apart from the competition.
You'll attract the attention of customers and drive sales like never before by offering products that make a bold, bright statement. You can have the power to create eye-catching designs that leave a lasting impression on your clients with DTF Printing.
Frequently asked questions about DTF Printing
Need answers to your Print on Demand Questions?
We've got the answers!
Definitely! DTF t-shirt printing offers remarkable environmental benefits compared to traditional methods. It uses water based inks, conserving water and reducing chemical usage. This minimizes waste, and enhances energy efficiency, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly choice.
DTF printing, you can work with most fabric varieties like polyester, fleece, nylon, cotton, etc. In addition materials such as ceramic and metal can also be worked with.
DTF printing requires a specialized desktop inkjet printer equipped with textile inks tailored for this technique. It's not as simple as using a regular printer, as specific ink formulations are necessary for optimal results.
DTF printing surpasses vinyl or screen printing in terms of durability. The ink bonds directly to the fabric, ensuring resistance to cracking, peeling, and fading. DTF prints retain their color and quality even after multiple washes.
DTF Printing offers advantages over sublimation. Unlike sublimation, DTF works well on both light and dark fabrics, and it can reproduce white within designs. Sublimation, on the other hand, is better suited for lighter-colored fabrics.
Indeed! DTF Printing guarantees excellent print quality. DTF prints are smooth, elastic, and highly durable.
DTF transfers can endure multiple washes, more than 50, depending on the care instructions provided according to the material used to be printed on. To prolong the lifespan of the transfer, it is recommended to follow instructions such as washing the garment inside out and avoiding bleach.