What are Direct to Film Transfers?

Direct to Film (DTF) transfers have emerged as a revolutionary technique in the realm of textile printing, introducing a cutting-edge method that promises unparalleled results. This innovative technology entails imprinting a design onto a specialized film, which is subsequently transferred onto fabric through the application of heat. The process kicks off with the design being meticulously printed onto a PET film, followed by the strategic application of a powder adhesive. Upon the application of heat, the film seamlessly adheres to the fabric, yielding a flawless and high-quality print.

The Superiority of DTF Over DTG and Vinyl

While Direct to Garment (DTG) and vinyl have enjoyed popularity in the textile printing industry, DTF boasts several distinct advantages that set it apart:

Versatility Across Fabrics: DTF excels in its ability to adhere to a diverse array of fabrics, ranging from cotton and polyester to silk and various blends. This versatility represents a significant advancement compared to DTG, which is predominantly optimized for cotton.

Color Brilliance and Precision: DTF transfers stand out for their exceptional color vibrancy and intricate detailing. In contrast to DTG, which occasionally struggles with maintaining vibrant colors on darker fabrics, DTF ensures consistent quality across all shades.

Longevity and Texture: DTF prints are renowned for their durability and outstanding wash-ability, withstanding multiple cycles without succumbing to fading or cracking—a common concern with vinyl transfers. Furthermore, DTF transfers offer a softer tactile experience compared to the often thick and plastic-like feel associated with vinyl. We have tested our prints in washing/drying cycles extensively and have garments that have been washed in excess of 60 times with little to no loss in color or feel.

Economical and Streamlined Production: In terms of production efficiency, DTF proves to be more cost-effective, particularly for smaller batches. By eliminating the need for pre-treatment processes essential in DTG, DTF not only saves valuable time but also conserves resources. This makes DTF an ideal choice for customized and on-demand printing. Our HOT PEEL Direct to film Transfers will speed up your process of decorating garments. Most applications take a 5 second pre-press, 12 second Press and a quick 10 second Post Press. No waiting for the film to cool, just pull the carrier film off instantly while its hot.

Shelf Life: Our Direct to Film transfers have a shelf life of 2+ years when stored properly in a sealed zip-lock style bag and a moisture absorbing pack. This means you can order more of your brand and have them press-ready on the shelf when you need them !

The Future Landscape of Textile Printing

The introduction of DTF transfers signifies a monumental shift in the textile printing industry. Its capability to deliver high-quality, enduring prints on a diverse range of fabrics, coupled with its cost-effectiveness and eco-friendliness, establishes DTF as a superior choice in numerous scenarios compared to DTG and vinyl. As technology continues to advance, the prevalence of DTF in the world of textile printing is poised to grow even further, heralding an exciting future for this transformative technology.