What is DTF Printing?

Last updated on January 21st, 2025 at 05:27 am

DTF or Direct-to-film is a form of printing method that is used to print texts, logos, and images on textile and non-textile products. This particular printing technique allows us to decorate and personalise apparel products like tees, polos, and more. The modern printing technique transfers excellent designs and images to your desired surface. It is suitable for customising surfaces and fabrics made of cotton, plastic, metal, ceramic.

We can characterise DTF printing with its speed, eco-friendliness and affordability for printing in 100 to 10000s. The bulk printing capacity of DTF printing makes it valuable for print shops, PODs, and small businesses. The A3 R1390 is one of the best DTF printers for small printing business.

Today, we will discuss DTF printing definition, its benefits, applications, and limitations. Plus, you will find two premium DTF printers for businesses.

What is DTF Printing?

DTF Printing

DTF printing machines move texts, images, cartoons, etc., from the dtf film to the surface. DTF was invented in the early 2000s, possibly in the garment industry.  

It has five to six steps that includes digital text or logo design, printing on the film, powder application, heat curing, and transfer. The key equipment includes a DTF printer, heat press, DTF film, and adhesive powder.

Types of Surfaces Suitable for DTF Printing:

Surfaces Suitable for DTF Printing

We can DTF print on textile and non-textile surfaces due to its versatility.DTF printing is applicable to print texts and images on cotton, woven and non-woven fabric.

Plus, DTF machines are capable of printing cartoons, anime, etc., on cotton T-shirts, hoodies, tote bags. DTF prints suit sportswear, sweat shirts, performance wear, for printing your desired design.

DTF works on wood, metal, glass, and ceramic for embedded designs, names, numbers. You can use DTF to print on wooden signs, coasters, metal plates, keychains, etc. It also prints on glass mugs, phone cases, ceramic tiles, mugs, and leather jackets.

How Does DTF Printing Work?

How Does DTF Printing Work?

DTF printing process starts with the graphic design creation. Then, the machine prints the graphic on the film and uses a heat press to move it to the main surface.

Digital Design

Graphic designers create texts, images, numbers, using Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Canva, or other designing software etc. You can download or customise the designs for DTF printers.

Film Printing

Once we finalise the t-shirt or keyring design, the DTF machine transfers the design on thePET (polyethylene terephthalate) film. The film is a thermoplastic that absorbs high heat during the later stages.

DTF printers use special inks with adhesive capacity for its stickiness and long lifespan.

Powder Application

The DTF machine combines fine adhesive powder and wet ink to put it on the thermoplastic film. The adhesive creates a bond between two surfaces, including plastic, cotton, and polyester materials.

Heat Curing

During theheat curing process, the machine cures the powdered film using high heat. The heat activates the adhesive that you apply with the wet ink. The heat curing step ensures that the design will transfer properly to the target surface.

Transfer

You place the cured film on the target surface, such as a t-shirt. Then, the DTF machine transfers the design through the heat-pressed mechanism. The heat and pressure from theheat press melt the adhesive. So, the design quickly transfers from the PET film to the surface.

Key Considerations for Optimal DTF Printing Results

The crispness of DTF printing depends on PET film quality. Use high-quality PET films for sharp, vibrant prints. Also, the powder used on the films should feature maximum adhesiveness.

The temperature of the heat press controls the final printed output. The ideal temperature for heat press in DTF is150°C and 180°C (302°F and 356°F).

The heat press settings should align with the DTF printer for proper curing and transfer. Also,consider file size, colour complexity, and print resolution for the best printing results.

Benefits of DTF Printing:

Benefits of DTF Printing

DTF printing is versatile and more durable than your traditional printing methods. Also, it is less expensive than other printing mechanisms due to its ease and bulk processing.  So, theadvantages of DTF printing for your business are more than you think.

Versatility

DTF printing works on nearly all materials, including cotton, polyester, blends, leather, wood, metal, and even glass. The versatility of the DTF printer makes it suitable for printing texts, cartoons, anime, on apparel, home decor, and industrial products.

So, you don’t need to set up DTG, sublimation, or screen-printing setups separately for your business.

High-Quality Prints

DTF produces vibrant and high-resolution prints with sharp details and accurate colour reproduction. You can control the colour gradients, halftones, and fine lines with the DTF prints. For the best results, print between 600 to 1200 DPI for stunning visuals on any printing surface.

DTF printing is you need tees, polo, and jerseys with crisp colours and designs, DTF printing is the way to go.

Durability

The wet ink and adhesive with a heat press of DTF prints are durable. It doesn’t fade, crack, and peel soon. As a result, the design looks new even after 100 to 1000 washes.

DTF print designs can live through worse weather, harsh conditions and frequent washes for 2 to 3 years. So, garment industries use DTF prints on their cotton and polyester products for durability.

Cost-effective for Small Batches

Small-scale printing business can save money with DTF because it produces. It also reduces your other upfront costs by30% to 40% compared to screen printing.

So, small businesses use DTF printers to customise their 10 to 100 products.

Ease of Use

We have found that people operate DTF printers easily. As a result, both beginners and experienced printers can easily use the DTF prints. Its process is straightforward and you can operate with the Windows system of the printer.

Workers don’t need to prepare screen and exposure. So, they work faster to complete your bulk and urgent printing orders.

DTF Printing Vs. Other Printing Methods

Besides DTF prints, printing shops, garments and we use screen, sublimation printing, and DTG prints. DTF printing is different in its film transfer process, capacity and order size.

DTF vs. DTG (Direct-to-Garment):

DTF vs. DTG

DTF and DTG (Direct To Garments) are digital garment printing methods. The maindifference lies in their printing process, colour range, cost, and longevity.

FeatureDTFDTG
ProcessIt uses a film transfer processPrints the ink directly onto the garment
Material CompatibilityHighly versatile with application on both fabrics and non-fabric surfaces.It suits cotton and cotton blends mainly
Colour RangeProduces crisp and vibrant colours with wide colour gamutIt also produces vibrant colours similar to DTF printing
DurabilityHighly durable and won’t fade, crack, and peel quicklyRepeated washing can quickly fade or crack the print, especially on darker fabrics.
Cost (Small Batches)It is cost-effective with lower setup costs for small-batch production.Higher initial setup costs, but can be cost-effective for larger orders.
Ideal Order SizeSuitable for both small and large orders.More suitable for larger orders

DTF vs. Sublimation:

DTF vs. Sublimation

DTF and sublimationare both digital printing methods. However, you will see their difference in application and material compatibility:

FeatureDTFSublimation
ProcessThe printing includes a transfer of the filmThe dye sublimation process is done through a heat press and special dye-sublimation inks.
Material CompatibilityHighly versatile with application on nearly all materialsIt mainly suits polyester-based fabrics
Colour RangeSupports entire colour spectrum for crips printsVibrant colours, especially on light-coloured polyester.
DurabilityHighly durable, and print won’t fade away easilyIt is more durable on polyester-based fabrics
Cost (Small Batches)Lower setup and printing costsThere are lower setup costs, but printing requires specialised equipment and inks that can be expensive.
Ideal Order SizeSuitable for all types of printing ordersIt is ideal for small and large orders

DTF vs. Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV):

DTF vs. Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV)

DTF and HTV are both methods of transferring designs to garment products. You will seedifference between DTF and HTV in their material compatibility, design complexity, and durability:

FeatureDTFHTV
ProcessIt prints the final design using a PET filmHTV uses pre-cut vinyl sheets and prints using a heat press process
Material CompatibilityApplicable on both fabrics and non-fabric surfaces.Suitable for most fabrics
Colour RangeProduces crisp and vibrant coloursOnly the colours are available on vinyl sheets.
DurabilityHighly durable and won’t fade, crack, and peel quicklyDurable but less durable than DTF, especially in areas with high friction or stretching.
Cost (Small Batches)It is cost-effective for both large and small-batch production.It requires pre-cut vinyl sheets, which can be expensive and labor-intensive.
Ideal Order SizeGreat for both small and large orders.More suitable for small to medium orders

DTF vs. Screen Printing:

DTF vs. Screen Printing

DTF has lower setup costs, best for larger order size, and design complexity. The printing process, durability and cost are considerable forDTF and screen printing differences. Screen printing delivers good colours but DTF printing is crisp and vibrant.

FeatureDTFScreen Printing
ProcessThe printer moves the design to the PET films, add adhesive for moving it to desired surface.The ink goes through the screen to the garment for printing
Material CompatibilityDTF can print on versatile surfaces  Suitable for printing on fabric but not on non-textile surface
Colour RangeWe get all colours with 100% accuracyIt can produce only 4-6 colours per screen
DurabilityThe print can live for 1 to 2 years without fadingScreen printing is also durable with non-fading capacity
CostDTF is affordable for large and small printingYou have to setup the screen which is costly
Ideal Order SizeYou can print 1 order, 100 or even 1000 order with DTF.Choose screen printing for larger orders

Applications of DTF Printing:

Applications of DTF Printing

DTF printing customise designs on garment and non-garment products. You can add custom design on tees, smartphone cases, interior decoration items with DTF printers.

Custom Apparel

DTF machines are capable of printing designs on cotton or synthetic t-shirts, polos, hoodies, etc.

●       T-shirts: Print unique tee-shirts with trendy texts, anime characters and images.

●       Hoodies: DTF machines can print sweatshirts and hoodies with brand logo, text and slogan.

●       Tote Bags: Print tote bags with crisp colours through DTF printers for marketing campaigns, educational institutes, etc.

●       Hats: Printable caps and hats with team logos, slogans, etc.

Non-Garment Products

You can use DTF printing machines to personalise phone cases, mugs, bags, shoes, etc.

·        Phone Cases: Everyone can customise phone cases with company logo,  favourite text or image with DTF printing.

·        Mugs: Printable ceramic, porcelain or glass mugs. You can use these DTF printed mugs for gifts, or promoting brands and companies.

·        Bags: You can print leather or fabric tote bags, backpacks, and shoulder bags using DTF printers

·        Shoes: Millennials and Gen-Z could add their favourite anime or cartoon character, life text on their shoes.

·        Home Decor: DTF machines can print pillows, coasters, and wall art to decorate your residence.

Business Use Cases

Many merchandise, brands and small businesses choose DTF printing for their marketing campaigns. You can design and produce branded merchandise for businesses with the DTF mechanism.

DTF printers can customise metal keyrings, cotton t-shirts, hats, and bags. You could print gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings within 1 to 2 days.

Limitations and Challenges of DTF Printing:

Limitations and Challenges of DTF Printing

DTF printing is speedy and budget-friendly for 1 to 10000 plus orders. But it can be difficult to learn DTF machine operation. Also, we discussed with users that they doubt the lifespan of DTF prints.

Learning Curve

The DTF printing machine has two segments, Windows Operation and manual control. So,learning the two different operations of DTF printers requires your time and effort.

First, DTF machine setup requires basic training. Then, you have to learn to synchronise it with the Windows Operating System.

Learning the DTF printing techniques are crucial for printing accuracy and crispness. For instance, the temperature of the heat press must be between 150°C and 180°C. You can achieve the right heat press temperature through multiple synchronisation of DTF machines.

Cost of Materials

Although the upfront cost of DTF printing is cheap, the overall printing cost for small batches can be high. If you print 1 to10 t-shirts, or fabrics, the purchasing cost of ink, powder and adhesive becomes expensive. But for bulk order of printing 100 to 10000 fabric, the cost of DTF print reduces.

Durability Concerns

Many people complained that DTF prints wash out and fad within two to three months. We have seen complaints from South Asian people that the DTF prints on their fabric have washed out within months. It happens because of UV rays and sunlight exposure.

Who Should Use DTF Printing?

From 1 to 100,DTF printing suits small and large orders. You don’t have to establish the stencil screen in DTF printing. So, for a limited budget, we recommend DTF printers.

Also, print shops use DTF machines for printing 1 to 5 or 10 fabrics. They can print tees, mugs, etc., for local business and promotional campaigns.

Moreover, hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts love the printing easiness and accuracy of DTF machines. Many hobbyists and artists use small DTF printers at home for printing in small batches of one to five.

Plus, large businesses can print different products with their company logos, colours, texts, etc using the DTF printers. It saves them from ordering 100s of printed items, even when they don’t need it.

Getting Started with DTF Printing

DTF printer setup includes five items, including the printing machine, heat press, thermoplastic film.

●       DTF Printer: DTF printing machine moves the design from your desktop to the DTF film.

●       Heat Press: This stage transfers the design from the film to the desired surface at 150-200 degrees temperature.

●       DTF Film: The DTF film has adhesive coating for strength to survive the heat press stage.

●       Adhesive Powder: Adhesive powder combines with the wet ink on the film. It helps the print to stick on the fabric.

●       DTF Ink: DTF inks can be solvent-based or synthetic.

Setting Up Your Workspace:

A perfect DTF printing workspace is essential for clean, crisp and vibrant print. From proper ventilation to minimising fumes, you must consider smaller details for the DTF machine workspace. Or, your print results will be worse, inaccurate and unattractive.

DTF printing workspace must be clean and organised. DTF machines produce smaller molecules of the inks in air. You have to keep the printing room clean to prevent ink and colour contamination.

Find a cool and dry place to store the inks and adhesive powder of the DTF machine. It is crucial because DTF inks can react with pollen in air and result in worse print and colour quality.

Reliable Suppliers

InkJet, Epson, etc., companies manufacture the best DTF printers. You can research and choose the right DTF printer for your business. For smaller businesses, we suggest A3 R1390 DTF Printer.

Alternatively, choose Print in London for quick, crisp, and premium DTF printing London for any kind of DTF printing .

What is a DTF Printer?

A DTF (Direct-to-Film) printer prints on a thermoplastic film instead of printing on the fabric. Then, use ink and attach adhesive to the printed film and transfer it to the main printing surface. The printer uses a heat-press mechanism for this transfer of the design. The adhesive keeps the print intact on the printed material.

The DTF printing method is usable on various textiles. You won’t have to pre-treat the fabrics. It is a key distinction between DTF and traditional DTG or screen-printing methods.

Types of DTF Printers:

DTF printers are available in modified or dedicated versions. Modified and regular DTG printers have different ink and film feeding systems.

Modified Printers

Modified DTF printers are customised versions of the existing Inkjet or DTG printers. Print shops change the ink feeding system of Inkjet machines. So, it changes the printing mechanism of the regular DTG printers.

DTG printer converts to modified DTF printers within $10 to $100 dollars. But, modified DTFs fail to deliver the performance of an actual DTF printer.

Dedicated DTF Printer

Professional DTF printers such as A3 R1390 have a pre-built DTF printing mechanism. DTF print machine companies optimise the features accurately for the dedicated DTF printers. So, it is faster and more efficient.

Key Features of a DTF Printer:

Key Features of a DTF Printer

Consider its print head, printing speed and white ink capacity toselect any DTF printer. Also, the ink system of the DTF printer is crucial for high-res prints.  

White Ink Capabilities

White ink of the DTFs is the base layer for designs on dark fabrics. Thewhite ink capacity controls the printing details. DTF printers mainly use solvent-based pigment. You will also see DTF printers with sublimation inks.

More capacity of white ink means the DTF can print better on darker surfaces.

Print Head

The print head contains small nozzles to spread the ink droplets during the DTF printing process. Consider the nozzle size of the DTF print heads. Smaller print head deposits the ink accurately over the printing. Plus, theclean print headdelivers sharper prints.

The print head should be easy to clean to minimise clogging. When the DTF print head is dirty, it will distort the printing. Expert printers choose print heads with piezo or thermal droplet features for maximum accuracy.

Film Feeder

The DTF printer has a film or roll feeder. Aligning with its name, the feeder puts the film or roller inside the machine. Faster film feeder system offers smooth and efficient DTF printing.

The alignment of the feeder and film should be precise to prevent misprints. So you will get a consistent printing result. If the film feeder is slow, you can’t print 1000+ fabric per day and it slows down your business.

Ink System

DTF printers require specialised pigment inks with a good adhesive feature. For DTF printers, consider solvent-based or pigment ink. Pigment ink delivers crisp printing results.

Sometimes, sublimation ink systems are usable with DTF printers. The CMYK colour profile will deliver the best colours and crispness of the printed fabric.

Choosing the Right DTF Printer:

Choosing the Right DTF Printer

For the right DTF printer consider its speed, DPI rate and available print size. It also depends on DTF printer resolution.

Print Speed

Print speed suggests how many prints you get in one minute from the DTF printer. It is necessary for high-volume production.

Print speed of DTF printers depends on DPI (Dot Per Inch). At higher DPI, resolution and ink droplets increase. So, print speed reduces. The DTF printer should balance print speed and DPI rate.

Resolution

The details and clarity of the printed image depends on printing resolution. Ideally,300 DPI is recommended for DTF printers. When you use higher resolution, you need more ink and time.

1200 DPI is preferable for maximum information on your printed items. So, purchase DTF printers with 300DPI to 2000DPI printing capacity.

Print Size

The print size of the DTF printer impacts your design range. Print size of DTF printers vary from small square (2 in x 2 in) to large square (4 in x 4 in). Also, for front and back V-neck tees, choose standard and common print sizes.

Maintenance Requirements

The DTF printing machine depends on regular maintenance for its performance. If the print head is clogged, ink distribution becomes inconsistent.  So, replace the printing ink before it finishes off. Also, clean the nozzle of the print head for accurate printing results.

Check how easy or tough it is to open the printer head and film feeder. Also, check the placement of ink.

Maintenance of DTF Printer

A well maintained DTF printer delivers best printing results. Also, proper maintenance ensures  that your DTF printer can serve for 2 to 5 years.

●        Clean Regularly: Wash the print head of the DTF printer twice in a month. It prevents ink clogging and saves your ink.

●        Use Quality Inks: Use inks from Inkjet, Ipson or other brands for high-the best print quality. It will minimise cleaning frequency of the print head.

●        Store Inks Properly: Inks of your DTF printer should be cool and dark.

●        Follow Manufacturer’s Guidelines: Before you use a DTF printer, read the manufacturer’s manual. Follow it to get best DTF printing results.

Some of the Best DTF Printers For Small Business And Craft Projects:

A3 R1390 printer

DTF printers for small batch production balance budget, printing speed and DPI outcome. The A3 R1390 printer from Comstroll can print 100+ fabrics each day.

It is capable of printing at 5760X1440DPI resolution. So, you will get maximum information on each print. Also, A3 R1390 printer features an automatic white ink agitation system. So, you don’t need to adjust the ink nozzle to add ink.

It continues printing as you add new inks. So, your printing becomes hassle-free and quick. On top of it, A3 R1390 has a five-colour printing facility. It improves the printing quality with better colour distribution from the print head.

For daily cleaning, A3 R1390 DTF printer is equipped with a software-based cleaning system. So, it will automatically clean the ink nozzles. It stops clogging and distortion of the inks and saves ink too.

The A3 R1390 front printer is good for printing cotton tees, hoodies, leather, etc. Comstroll made it for small businesses that need 10 to 100 prints per day. Its five-colour printing delivers great accuracy and crispness on prints.

Conclusion

DTF printers work well with both fabric and non-fabric materials. It produces vibrant, and durable prints from 1 to 10000, each day. So, it suits small local business customised clothing, craft or garment owners.

The A3 R1390 DTF Printer fulfils your printing demands for 100+ fabric prints per day.  DTF printing outdoes DTG and screen printing. Choose DTF printer and upgrade your customised printing business, now.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Is DTF better than DTG?

DTF is more versatile than the DTG printing mechanism. Also, you can use DTF on a wider range of materials than DTG printers. However, DTG printing is more cost-effective for larger orders, especially cotton garments.

2. What materials work best with DTF printing?

DTF printing is compatible with almost every printing surface. You can print on cotton, polyester, blends, leather, wood, metal, and glass with the DTF printer.

3. How does DTF printing handle complex designs?

DTF printing is made with intricate details and multiple colours. It can print at higher DPI rates up to 5760X1440DPI for more accuracy and vibrancy of the end product.

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Jon Tabner

Hi! I’m Jon Tabner, I am a Graphic Designer and Marketing Executive in profession. Exploring new things, innovation and designing is my passion. Now working as head of Graphic Designing & Marketing Executive team at Print In London and currently I am based in London. I love using my design knowledge to inspire small businesses to think outside the box when designing their print.

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