Direct to Film (DTF) or DTG Transfer
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      Direct-to-Garment (DTG) Transfer (Direct to Film - DTF) Guide

      The Only Guide You'll Need About DTF

      Table of Contents

      1. What is DTF (Direct to Film)?
      2. Benefits
      3. Drawbacks
      4. Pre-Requisites for Your First DTF Print, Process, More

       

      What is DTF (Direct to Film)?

      • You may have heard of a new technology recently and its many terms such as, “DTF”, “Direct to Film”, “DTG Transfer”, and more. For the purpose of this blog, we’ll be referring to it as “DTF”. You may be wondering what is this so-called DTF and why is it getting so popular? Here we’ll do a deep dive on what DTF is, who it’s for, benefits and drawbacks, and more!
      • Direct-to-Garment (DTG) Transfer (also known as DTF) is exactly what it sounds like. You print an artwork on a special film and transfer said film onto fabric or other textiles.

       

      Benefits

      • Versatility on Materials
        • DTF can be applied on a wide range of materials including, cotton, nylon, treated leather, polyester, 50/50 blends and more (light and dark fabrics).
      • Cost Effective
        • Can save up to 50% white ink.
        • Supplies are also significantly more affordable.
      • No Pretreat Required
        • If you are coming from a direct-to-garment (DTG) background, you must be familiar with pretreating the garments before printing. With DTF, you no longer have to worry about pretreating the garment prior to printing.
      • No A+B Sheets Marrying Process
        • If you come from a white toner laser printer background, you’ll be pleased to hear that DTF doesn’t require the marrying process of expensive A+B sheets.
      • Production Speed
        • Since you essentially take out a step of pretreating, you’re able to speed up production.
      • Washability
        • Has been proven through testing to be equal to if not better than traditional direct-to-garment (DTG) printing.
      • Easy Application
        • DTF allows you to apply the artwork on difficult/ awkward parts of the garment or fabric with ease.
      • High Stretchability and Soft Hand Feel
      • No Scorching

       

      Drawbacks

      • Full size prints don’t come out as great as direct-to-garment (DTG) prints.
      • Different hand feel compared to direct-to-garment (DTG) prints.
      • Must wear a mask when handling the DTF adhesive powder.
      • Must keep the DTF adhesive powder in a cool temperature. High humidity can cause quality issues.

       

      Pre-Requisites for Your First DTF Print, Process, and More