DTF
Direct-to-film transfer
DTF prints your design onto a film, bonds it with adhesive powder and heat-presses it onto the garment, giving bold color on cotton, blends and polyester alike.
How it works
Direct-to-film (DTF) starts by printing the design onto a special transfer film, including a white base layer. A hot-melt adhesive powder is applied to the print, the film is cured, and the transfer is then heat-pressed onto the garment.
Because the design is carried by the transfer rather than absorbed by the fabric, DTF is less dependent on fabric type than DTG. It handles blends, polyester and darker garments well and produces bright, opaque color.
Advantages
- Works on cotton, blends, polyester and many other fabrics
- Bright, opaque color on dark garments thanks to the white base layer
- Sharp edges and fine lines, including small text and logos
- No per-design screens; suits small runs and mixed orders
Best for
- Logos, lettering and graphic designs
- Polyester, performance and blended garments
- Bright colors on dark garments
- Placements where a crisp, defined edge matters
Good to know
- The transfer sits on the surface of the fabric, so the hand feel is smoother and slightly firmer than DTG
- Very large designs can feel heavier on lightweight fabrics
- Colors are reproduced from the supplied artwork; proofing on the actual garment is recommended for exact matches
Suitable products
Blanks that suit DTF
These product types are commonly suited to this method. Browse the catalog to see the products currently available.
Have a design in mind?
Send us the artwork and the product you are thinking of and we will confirm whether DTF is the right fit.