🔍 Introduction
DTF (Direct to Film) printing is one of the most popular techniques for creating custom t-shirts: high definition, vibrant colors, and guaranteed durability even after washing. In this technical yet accessible guide, you'll discover what DTF is, its advantages over other techniques, how it works, and why Stritz chose it for its prints.
1. What is DTF printing?
DTF involves printing the design onto PET film using CMYK + white inks, then dusting the film with hot-melt powder, adhering it with heat (curing cycle), and finally transferring the design to the garment using a heat press.
Can I give you an example? After printing on film, the design will look great on any fabric, including denim, polyester, nylon, and more, allowing for great versatility.
2. Advantages of DTF
🎨 Vibrant colors and sharp details
Compared to direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, DTF uses film and white base, ensuring fully saturated results even on dark fabrics.
🧵 Compatibility with many fabrics
DTF works on cotton, polyester, blends, nylon, leather… while DTG struggles on synthetic fibers.
🔄 Resistance to washing and wear
DTF prints hold up well to frequent washing without cracking or warping, if fixed and cared for correctly.
⚙️ Also perfect for short runs
DTF eliminates the costly setup and time-consuming processes of screen printing: you can print even a single item, or a few dozen, at low costs. .
3. comparison with other techniques
|
Technique |
Advantage |
Main limitations |
|
Screen printing |
Economical on high numbers, full colors |
High setup costs, less detail |
|
DTG |
Ideal on cotton, for small print runs |
Doesn't work well on dark/synthetic |
|
Heat transfer vinyl (HTV) |
Easy for simple writings |
More rigid, less detailed |
|
Sublimation |
Perfect on light polyester |
Poly only, print not visible on dark |