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Direct to Film Printing

Direct to Film Printing Services


 Custom Print Your Own Garments

Get vibrant, high-quality DTF prints of your chosen artwork that last. No peeling, no cracking—just flawless designs on a fabric of your choice. Perfect for brands, businesses, and creatives.

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Custom DTF Printing

What is DTF Printing?

DTF, or Direct to Film, is an advanced printing method that involves transferring your design from a specially printed film onto apparel. Unlike other techniques, DTF printing works perfectly with fabrics made from cotton, polyester, or blends, and is compatible with garments of any colour thanks to its ability to use white ink.

This method requires a specialised inkjet printer equipped with textile inks specifically formulated for DTF printing, offering a versatile and high-quality solution for customising apparel. DTF printing is an excellent choice for those looking for a versatile and durable customisation method, especially for vibrant, long-lasting designs on a wide range of fabrics and colours.

Detailed DTF Printing Process

Direct to Film (DTF) printing is a versatile and efficient method for customising apparel. It involves transferring a design from a specially printed film onto the fabric. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the DTF printing process:

1. Artwork Preparation

Before printing, the design is prepared using graphic design software to ensure it meets the required resolution and colour specifications. The artwork is typically saved in formats such as PNG or TIFF with a transparent background. Adjustments are made to the design for optimal results, including colour correction and resolution checks.

2. Printing the Design on Film

After the design is finalised by your side, we move on to printing the design. Using a specialised inkjet printer equipped with textile pigment inks, the design is printed directly onto the DTF film.

The printer uses CMYK inks and a layer of white ink to ensure the design remains vibrant on all fabric colours. A reverse print order is followed, with the white layer applied last to create a base for the design.

3. Powder Application

Once the design is printed, a fine adhesive powder is applied to the wet ink on the film. 
This powder ensures the design adheres firmly to the fabric during transfer. Excess powder is removed to avoid uneven application.

4. Powder Curing

The film with the adhesive powder is cured in a heat press or oven. The curing process melts the adhesive powder, creating a solid layer that bonds the design to the fabric. This step is critical for ensuring the durability of the print.

5. Preparing the Garment

Before transferring the design, the garment is prepped by laying it flat and removing any wrinkles or moisture. A quick pre-press with a heat press can help prepare the fabric for a smooth transfer.

6. Transferring the Design

The cured DTF film is placed onto the garment with the printed side facing the fabric. The heat press is set to the recommended temperature (typically 150–180°C) and time (10–20 seconds), depending on the fabric type. Pressure and heat ensure the adhesive activates and bonds the design to the fabric.

7. Cold Peel Removal

After the transfer, the garment is allowed to cool completely before peeling off the DTF film. This "cold peel" technique ensures the design adheres securely to the fabric.

8. Post-Pressing (Optional)

After the transfer, the garment is allowed to cool completely before peeling off the DTF film. This "cold peel" technique ensures the design adheres securely to the fabric.

Pros
Large Print Area: Print designs up to 40×50 cm, larger than many DTG prints.
Photo-Quality Prints: Achieve stunning 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution for sharp, detailed images.
Soft & Flexible Feel: DTF prints feel softer than traditional heat transfers while maintaining flexibility.
Eco-Friendly Inks: We use Innobella water-based pigment inks, which are OEKO-TEX certified and safe for the environment.
No Colour Limits: Print full-colour designs, including gradients and complex artwork, with no restrictions.
Same-Day Printing: Fast turnaround times, with shirts printed on the same day in many cases.
Durable & Long-LastingWater-based inks resist cracking and peeling when properly applied and cared for.
Cons
Feel of the Print: The print has a slightly plasticised texture, similar to screen print transfers or heat transfer vinyl (HTV).
Complex Process: Compared to sublimation or Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing, the DTF process is more intricate and requires precision.

Best File Types for DTF Printing

DTF Printing Work Examples

DTF Printing Sample 1
DTF Printing Sample 2
DTF Printing Sample 3
DTF Printing Sample 4

FAQs for Custom DTF Printing on Apparel

DTF (Direct to Film) printing is a method where designs are printed onto a special film and then transferred onto fabric using heat and pressure. It works well on cotton, polyester, and fabric blends, regardless of their colour.

DTF printing is compatible with a wide range of fabrics, including 100% cotton, polyester, and blends. It offers excellent results on both light and dark-coloured garments.

Yes, DTF prints are highly durable. They have excellent wash resistance, remain vibrant after repeated washes, and resist cracking or peeling even when stretched.

Absolutely! DTF printing is ideal for both small and large orders, making it cost-effective for personalised or custom designs.

The print may feel slightly textured or plasticised, similar to screen print transfers, but it is flexible and doesn't crack with wear.

DTF printing supports full-colour designs, including vibrant gradients and white ink, making it ideal for complex, multi-colour artwork.

For best results, machine wash garments inside out in cold water. Avoid using bleach and tumble drying. Air drying is recommended to maintain the print's quality.

Yes, DTF printing works on various flat fabric items such as hoodies, tote bags, and even caps, provided the material is suitable for the process.

The production time varies depending on the order size, but DTF printing is generally fast. Many orders can be completed and shipped within a few business days.

No, there is no minimum order quantity, making DTF printing a great option for one-off custom designs or bulk orders.

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