5 things to know about DTF technology
5 things to know about DTF technology
Direct film printing is a unique printing technology that involves printing designs onto special films for transfer to garments. DTF printing is a thermal transfer process with the ability to last as long as traditional screen printing. Below, we’ll discuss five things you should know before implementing DTF technology in your business.
5 things to know about DTF technology
Direct film printing is a unique printing technology that involves printing designs onto special films for transfer to garments. DTF printing is a thermal transfer process with the ability to last as long as traditional screen printing. Below, we’ll discuss five things you should know before implementing DTF technology in your business.
1. Quality equipment is critical
If you own a printing business, you already know that the quality of your work is as good as the quality of your printer and ink. Even more so when it comes to DTF printing. As with other heat transfer processes, it’s critical to buy a quality printer and heat press to get the best results.
High-quality ink is also required to ensure that the printheads do not clog. We recommend inks specially formulated for DTF printing; they should also be made in the USA for better quality assurance due to rigorous testing. An example of such a brand is STS, which offers a range of DTF inks with high color density and saturation, excellent performance and durability.
2. Not all PET film will cut it
PET film is required for DTF printing, but this does not mean that every type of PET film is suitable for the DTF process. For best results, choose a printable double-sided cold release film. Lower-quality untreated films may be cheaper, but they simply can’t match the performance of double-sided cold-peel films—they can stain, won’t accept adhesives, or ruin your clothes. The cold release film is specially treated to withstand the high temperature and pressure of heat presses; it is also compatible with all desktop and large format printers. This film can be purchased as a sheet or in rolls for larger operations.
3. Choose your adhesive wisely
Prints on cold peel films cannot be transferred directly to garments. Instead, adhesives must be used to help the image adhere to the fabric. At allprintheads.com, we offer a unique adhesive for DTF printing that is durable enough to withstand up to 45 hand washes while keeping the transfer feeling soft. No unpleasant odor, excess can be stored and reused.
4. The fabric does not need to be pretreated with DTF technology
One of the many advantages of DTF printing is that garments do not require any pre-processing to accept transfer. This can simplify your operations and potentially reduce your costs. Overall, the DTF printing process is faster and requires less labor than DTG printing.
5. DTF printing offers greater versatility
When printing directly onto textiles, your options are limited. DTF gives you more flexibility as you can print on a variety of fabrics including cotton, polyester, rayon, nylon, silk, leather and more.