WHAT IS DTF PRINTING?
DTF (Direct to Film) printing is a digital printing technique that involves printing your design onto a special film using water-based inks, which are then transferred onto a garment using a heat press. This method allows for high-quality prints on a wide range of clothing and fabrics, making it a versatile option for garment printing.
WHY CHOOSE DTF PRINTING?
Ideal For Small Orders: DTF printing is cost-effective for smaller batches that don’t meet the usual minimum quantity required for screen printing.
Colourful or Complex Designs: Excellent for high-colour & photographic designs that have well-defined edges.
Great For Tricky Fabrics: DTF printing is ideal for a variety of fabrics that may not be well-suited for Direct to Garment (DTG) printing. This includes not only polyester but also certain 100% cotton garments that may not yield the best results with DTG. Additionally, DTF is suitable for printing on all fabric colours, unlike DTG, which is more limited in garment colour options. This versatility makes DTF an excellent choice for a broader range of garment types and colours.
HOW DOES DTF PRINTING LOOK & FEEL?
Appearance: DTF prints typically have a satin finish which gives them a slight sheen. The print sits on top of the fabric, providing a bright & bold print that pops off the shirt.
Feel: DTF prints have a smooth texture and feel slightly thicker or heavier than DTG prints, especially in larger print areas. Some customers perceive this added thickness as giving the garment a more durable feel.
PROS OF DTF PRINTING
Durability, long lasting prints: DTF prints are known for their durability. The heat transfer process ensures that the print adheres well to the fabric, providing long-lasting results that can withstand multiple washes without cracking or fading.
Versatility Across Different Fabrics: DTF is compatible with a wide range of garment types, including those made from synthetic materials like polyester. This versatility makes it a great choice for printing on various colours & fabrics that might not work well with DTG.
Bold & Vibrant: DTF printing produces bold and vibrant prints that stand out on any fabric. The colours are bright and eye-catching, making it ideal for designs that need to pop. The prints have a sharp, defined appearance, perfect for logos, text, and graphics with well-defined edges.
CONS OF DTF PRINTING
Heavier Print Feel: Compared to DTG, DTF prints can feel a bit bulkier or heavier on the garment, which might not be ideal for all types of designs or apparel, especially lightweight fabrics with large, solid designs.
Best For Designs with Defined Edges: DTF printing is most effective for designs with well-defined edges. DTG remains the best choice for designs that fade out or have gradients that blend into the fabric.
WHY CHOOSE DTF INSTEAD OF DTG?
While both DTF (Direct to Film) and DTG (Direct to Garment) printing methods offer unique advantages, there are specific scenarios where DTF might be the better choice:
Wider Range of Garments: DTF printing is compatible with a much wider range of fabrics and garment colours, including synthetic materials and colours that aren't suitable for DTG. This makes it ideal for printing on polyester and other non-cotton fabrics.
Greater Durability: DTF prints are more durable than DTG prints, handling repeated washing and tumble drying better. This makes them a great choice for garments that need to withstand frequent use and more rigorous laundering.
Logos & Solid Colour Graphics: DTF is perfect for bold, colourful logos and graphics with well-defined edges. DTF has a crisper, cleaner but heavier weight print compared to DTG, which some clients prefer.
If you have further questions about DTG VS DTF, check out our DTG VS DTF guide to learn more.
CONCLUSION
DTF printing is a versatile and cost-effective option for garment printing, especially suited for small orders, complex designs, and tricky fabrics. While it may result in a slightly heavier print feel, its durability, high detail, and versatility across different fabric types make it a popular choice for many projects. If you're considering DTF for your next printing project, we're here to help! You can easily order custom printed DTF clothing online using our Quick Order page, or contact us to get a custom quote or learn more about our DTF printing services.