Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing is a groundbreaking digital printing technology that has significantly impacted the custom apparel and textile industry. Unlike other methods that print directly onto the garment or use traditional vinyl, DTF involves printing a design onto a special Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) film using specialized water-based pigment inks, including a crucial white ink layer. Once the design is printed, a powdered adhesive is applied to the wet ink and then cured (melted). This prepared film can then be heat-pressed onto a wide variety of fabrics, transferring the vibrant, durable design.
The revolutionary aspect of DTF lies in its incredible versatility. It can be applied to almost any fabric type, including cotton, polyester, blends, nylon, leather, and even hard surfaces, without the need for fabric-specific pre-treatments, especially for dark-colored materials where a white underbase is essential. This makes it a more straightforward process compared to Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing on darks.
Compared to traditional iron-on transfers, DTF prints offer superior wash durability, a softer hand-feel (though this can vary), and much higher detail and color vibrancy. The professional-grade adhesive and curing process create a bond that withstands numerous washes without cracking, peeling, or fading significantly, offering a professional and long-lasting finish. This technology empowers businesses of all sizes to produce high-quality, custom-decorated items efficiently.
DTF stands for Direct-to-Film. It's a printing technique where designs are printed onto a special PET film, which is then heat-transferred to various fabrics.
Read MoreDTF is highly versatile and can be used on a wide range of fabrics including cotton, polyester, blends, nylon, leather, and both light and dark-colored materials without requiring pre-treatment for color.
Read MoreDTF offers superior durability, vibrancy, and a softer feel compared to many traditional iron-on transfers. It involves a professional-grade adhesive and curing process for long-lasting results.
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