DTF printing – advantages over other printing methods

“Direct to film” sums it up: this is an optimized process in digitally based textile printing, suitable for printing on both dark and light textiles. DTF technology compresses the work processes and the result surpasses previous printing techniques in terms of professionalism in decisive points.

Also for the hobby printer

Until recently, DTF technology was mostly used in professional, commercial textile printing with large product ranges and long runs. Nowadays, hobby printers are also increasingly using direct to film technology by outsourcing certain work steps to professional service providers. In addition, entry-level DTF systems and inkjet printers suitable for DTF processes are now available for in-house use. Thanks to affordable prices for the equipment, the innovative DTF technology is also conquering the market for textile finishing on a private scale or with small quantities.

B2B – Business to Business

The desired motif is printed mirror-inverted on a DTF transfer foil using a special inkjet printer. This requires the Digital Factory software from CADlink or RIP software (Raster Image Processor as a printer accessory). The printer must include the spot color white in addition to the CMYK color model to provide the full range of applications. The motif printed on the DTF transfer foil is sprinkled with a hot-melt adhesive, which gels with the ink under heat treatment and dries. Now the finished transfer foil can be rolled up and stored until further use, making the printing process ideal for the B2B sector. The production of printed transfer foils (on sheets or as rolls) is a step that professional service providers in textile finishing take over if you send them the image file with the motif. If you want to create or individualize motifs yourself, knowledge of image processing is advantageous.

No reduced wearing properties

Who is not familiar with the reduced wearing properties of a T-shirt, no matter how cool it is printed, if the print on clothing close to the body has too little stretch. DTF, on the other hand, guarantees maximum elasticity of the printed area in line with the textile in question. The direct to film printing method is suitable for textiles made of cotton as well as for blended fabrics and synthetic fiber materials made of polyester, nylon or spandex. Leather is also a good option. The substrates can go into the DTF process without pretreatment. Important, especially for functional sportswear: a high wash resistance up to 60 degrees and a survival time of at least 40 wash cycles are given. In addition, DTF technology enables fast processing times for any number of runs and short delivery times.