What Are the Advantages of DTF Printing

Discussion on direct-to-film (DTF) transfer printing and direct-to-garment printing (DTG) leads to a question: "What are the advantages of DTF printing?" While DTG printing is known for producing high-quality full-sized prints with vivid colors and a soft feel. However, DTF transfer printing offers distinct advantages that make it a valuable addition to any clothing printing business. If you are interested in DTG printing, we have an article for you to learn more.

The process of direct-to-film printing begins by printing designs onto a transfer film, which is then covered with a thermo-adhesive powder and transferred with a heat press to the final substrate. You will need transfer film and thermo-adhesive powder, as well as software to create designs - no other special equipment is required! In the following section, we will explore seven distinct advantages offered by this new technology.

1. Suitable for a variety of materials

While direct-to-garment printing works best on 100% cotton fabric, the DTF is suitable for many different clothing textiles: cotton, nylon, treated leather, polyester, 50/50 blend, and light and dark fabrics. The versatility of transfer technology allows it to be applied to a variety of surfaces including luggage, shoes, glass, wood, and metal. You can expand your inventory by using DTF to apply your design to a variety of products.

2. No pre-treatment required

If you already have a DTG printer, you may be familiar with the process of pre-treatment (not to mention the drying time). The melting capacity applied to the DTF transfer film enables the print to adhere directly to the substrate, meaning that no pre-treatment is required.

3.Cut white ink usage

Compared to DTG printing which requires 200% white ink, DTF printing requires only about 40% white ink. White ink is often the most expensive because it’s used much more and the pigment is titanium oxide, so reducing the amount of white ink used could save a lot of money.

4.More durable than DTG printing

Undeniably, DTG prints are soft and feel nothing as the ink is applied directly to the garment. Although DTF transfer printing does not have the soft feel DTG boasts, it is more durable. Direct transfer to the film is well-washed and flexible - this means they don’t crack or peel off and are ideal for heavy-use items.

5.Easy to apply

Film transfer means you can print your design on hard-to-reach or clumsy surfaces. With DTF transfer printing, any heat-applicable surface can be adorned with a custom design! Because only heating is required to adhere to the design, you can even sell the printing transfer film directly to your customers and allow them to place the design on any surface or item they select without requiring special equipment!

6. Faster production process

Since you can eliminate the steps of pre-treatment and drying of clothing, direct-to-film printing significantly reduces production time. This is good news for one-time or small-batch orders that are traditionally not profitable.

7. Help to diversify your inventory

While printing a bunch of the most popular designs in each size or color may not be feasible, DTF transfer printing allows you to print popular designs in advance and store them in very small spaces. Then, you can always have your best-selling designs ready to apply to any apparel as desired!

While DTF printing is still no substitute for DTG printing, there are many reasons why DTF can be an important complement to your business.