Guide To Direct To Film (DTF) Decoration

Direct To Film (DTF) involves printing a design onto a special transfer film using a digital printer. The printed film is then heat-pressed onto the target fabric material. A fine adhesive powder is applied to the printed design while the ink is still wet. The powder sticks to the ink and acts as a bonding agent between the design and the garment.

Direct To Film (DTFs) are better than screen printing for garments in the following scenarios:

1. Complex Designs and Full-Color Graphics

• Why: DTF excels at reproducing intricate, multicolored  designs with fine details, gradients, and sharp resolution.
• Example: Printing a realistic image, detailed artwork, or designs with gradients that would require multiple screens in screen printing.

2. Small Orders

• Why: DTF has minimal setup time and costs, making it ideal for small runs or personalized items, such as names, logos, or unique artwork.

3. Variety of Garment Types

• Why: DTF works on a broader range of fabrics and finishes, including polyester, nylon or blends that may not bond well with screen printing inks.

4. Minimal Design Limitations

• Why: DTF doesn’t require adjustments for multiple colors, as everything is printed digitally and transferred in one step.
• Example: Multi-color logos or intricate details without worrying about alignment or color overlap.

5. Lightweight or Specialty Fabrics

• Why: Screen printing can sometimes be too heavy for lightweight or delicate fabrics, causing stiffness or bleed-through. DTF transfers are thin and flexible, preserving the garment’s feel.
• Example: Printing on lightweight performance fabrics such as track singlets.

In Summary Direct To Film transfers are better for:

• Detailed designs with multiple colors.
• Short production runs.
• Quick delivery and versatile materials.

We currently offer DTF decoration on Badger/Alleson and Champro brand garments.