DTF Technology: What Makes It Unique?

There is a wide range of printing technologies today, each with its own unique attributes and benefits for particular types of projects. Direct to film (DTF) printing is one such technology. It’s a unique process that involves printing designs onto a special film, which is then transferred on fabric. It uses DTF inks and a heat transfer process, so the design should last about as long as a silkscreen print.

What makes DTF technology special?

• No pretreatment required – There’s no need to treat fabrics to make them accept DTF inks. This helps streamline operations and cut production costs, as labor is reduced and the process is made quicker.
• Versatility – DTF technology makes it possible to print on a wide range of fabrics, including leather, polyester, cotton, silk, nylon, and rayon.

Some considerations

• Adhesive – Cold peel film won’t transfer directly onto the fabric. It requires an adhesive to make the image stick. Make sure that the adhesive can survive up to 45 hand washes and that it won’t make the transfer feel stiff. Any excess should be easy to store and reuse. 
• The use of PET films – DTF printing technology needs high-quality PET films, which differ in terms of quality and features. It’s best to choose printable double-sided cold peel films and avoid low-quality, untreated films that may be cheaper but are unable to match the performance of the better option.
• High-quality cold peel films will prevent smudging, which could ruin the fabric. They come with superior adhesive, too, and are capable of withstanding the high pressures and temperatures of the heat press. Moreover, they are compatible with all large format and desktop printers. You can purchase these films in rolls or as cut sheets, depending on your requirements.
• The right inks – DTF inks are specially formulated to prevent clogging the printheads. If you want to be confident about quality, buy those that are made in the USA. They undergo rigorous testing and comply with the highest quality assurance standards.

It’s also important to make sure that the inks you are buying are compatible with the brand of printheads you’re using. A reliable DTF inks supplier can assist you on this matter.