Direct-To-Film (DTF) Transfers: What You Need to Know
Direct-to-Film (DTF) transfers have revolutionized fabric printing, offering a versatile and durable solution for customizing apparel and other textile products. This method allows for high-quality, full-color designs to be applied to a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, nylon, and blends.
What is DTF?
DTF is a printing technique where designs are printed onto a specialized PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) film. These printed films are then transferred onto fabrics using a heat press. Unlike Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing, which prints directly onto the fabric, DTF uses a two-step process involving the transfer film, making it suitable for a broader range of materials and offering greater flexibility in design placement.
How is DTF Printed?
The DTF printing process involves several key steps:
1. Design Preparation: Create or select a digital design using graphic software.
2. Printing: The design is printed onto a PET film using a DTF printer equipped with specialized inks. The printer lays down the colors in the desired pattern.
3. Adhesive Application: While the ink is still wet, a hot-melt adhesive powder is applied to the printed film. This powder adheres to the ink and will later bond the design to the fabric.
4. Curing: The film with the adhesive powder is then heated to cure the adhesive, ensuring it properly bonds to the ink. This can be done using a curing oven or a heat press.
5. Transfer: Finally, the cured film is placed onto the fabric, and a heat press or iron is used to transfer the design from the film to the garment. After pressing, the film is peeled away, leaving the design affixed to the
How to Apply DTF Transfers to Fabrics
Applying DTF transfers requires precision to ensure durability and quality. Follow these steps:
1. Preheat the Heat Press: Set your heat press to the recommended temperature, typically around 300-315°F (149-157°C).
2. Pre-press the Garment: Place the garment on the heat press and pre-press for 2-5 seconds to remove any moisture and wrinkles. This step is optional, but is a preference for many printers as it creates a smooth surface to then transfer your image onto.
3. Position the Transfer: Align the DTF transfer film on the garment in the desired location. You may find a t-shirt placement ruler helpful in centering and positioning your design on the garment.
4. Press the Transfer: Cover the transfer with parchment paper or a Teflon sheet and press at medium to firm pressure for 10-15 seconds.
5. Cool and Peel: Allow the transfer to cool completely before peeling the film away to reveal the design. Some printers may instruct you that their DTF transfers can be hot or cold peel so make sure you’re reading any instructions from the company you get your DTF transfers from if you did not print them
Care and Laundry Instructions After Application
Proper care of DTF-transferred garments ensures longevity and maintains the vibrancy of the design. Here are some guidelines:
Washing
• Turn the garment inside out to protect the DTF print from abrasion.
• Use cold or cool water to prevent fading.
• Opt for a gentle cycle and mild detergent; avoid bleach and fabric softeners.
Drying
• Lay the garment flat to dry to prevent stretching.
• If using a dryer, select a low heat or tumble dry setting to avoid damaging the transfer.
Ironing
• If ironing is necessary, turn the garment inside out and use a low heat setting.
• Avoid ironing directly over the DTF design to prevent melting or distortion.
By following these care instructions, DTF transfers can withstand over 60 or more washes without significant fading, cracking, or peeling, ensuring your custom apparel remains vibrant and durable over time.
In conclusion, DTF transfers offer a flexible and durable method for customizing a variety of fabrics. With proper application and care, garments adorned with DTF designs can maintain their quality and vibrancy through numerous wears and washes. The vivid colors and intricate details this method can achieve make it a fan favorite for a wide range of garments.