What Is DTF Transfer Film? – Ultimate Guide (2024)

DTF film is a specialized transfer medium used in the DTF printing process with DTF printers, DTF inks, and DTF powders. The primary purpose is to transfer designs onto various fabrics by hot-pressing DTF transfer films at high temperatures. This article takes you through DTF films’ functions, working principles, and application areas.

What is dtf film?

DTF film (Direct-to-Film) is a polyester film specially designed for the DTF printing process. The process transfers ink-printed films onto various substrates, especially textiles, by adding thermal transfer media.

What is DTF film made of？

DTF films are made from PET (polyethylene terephthalate), a durable, heat-resistant material, and a coating that keeps inks and powders bonded to the DTF film during printing. You can read this Comprehensive Guide on PET for more information about PET.

What are the types of DTF Films?

• Standard DTF Film: This is the most commonly used type for a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, silk, nylon, leather, and blended fabrics. It offers good ink adsorption and transfer results.
• Hot peel DTF film: In the hot peel process, the film is peeled off immediately after hot pressing, which usually requires a higher peeling temperature but can speed up production.
• Cold Peel DTF Film: This film must be cooled after hot pressing before peeling and may offer better image quality and durability.
• Matte DTF film: Provides a softer finish for those looking for a more natural, non-reflective printing effect.
• High-gloss DTF film: Produces a glossy finish that makes printed patterns attractive to the eye.
• UV DTF film: This unique film prints durable crystal labels that do not peel off.
• Special effect DTF films: including metallic effects, glitter effects, 3D effects, etc. These films can add unique visual effects to the printed materials.
• Environmentally friendly DTF films: Some manufacturers offer environmentally friendly DTF films, which reduce the environmental impact during production.

Comparison of DTF film with other transfer film

There are many transfer media available in the textile printing industry. Below, we compare them in different aspects in a table format to inform our customer’s choices.

How does DTF Film work?

Necessary equipment and materials

• DTF Printer
• Automatic Powder Shaker Machine
• Curing Oven
• Heat Press Machine
• DTF Ink
• DTF Transfer Film
• DTF Powder
• Substrate (material to be printed)

How to use DTF transfer film？

• Design Printing. Designs are printed onto DTF film using specialized printers with CMYK and white inks.
• Powder Coating. Applying adhesive powder to the wet ink on the film.
• Curing. The film is heated in an oven to melt the powder and bond it to the ink.
• Transferring. Place the film on the fabric and transfer the pattern with a heat press.
• Peeling. The film is peeled off, leaving the pattern on the fabric.

For a more detailed step-by-step guide to DTF printing, you can read this article, ‘What is DTF Printing.’’

Advantages Of DTF Film Advantages

• High-quality printing: Bright and saturated colors can be achieved with DTF film.
• Broad fabric compatibility: DTF film suits various fabrics, including cotton,’ polyester, silk, nylon” leather, blends, and more.
• Durable: Designs printed through DTF film are resistant to the wear and tear of daily wear and washing, keeping the prints long-lasting and colorfast.
• No pre-treatment: Unlike the DTG Printing method, DTF film does not require fabric pre-treatment, simplifying the printing process and saving time.
• High flexibility: DTF films can print designs, from simple logos to complex full-color images, offering excellent design freedom.
• Cost-effective: DTF film offers a cost-effective solution for small production runs and personalized orders as it reduces the high cost of plate making required by traditional printing methods.
• Ease of use: DTF films are relatively simple and easy to use, allowing beginners to get up and running quickly and start printing.

Limitations Of DTF Film

• Cost: DTF films can be more expensive than transfer films, especially when paired with high-quality inks and powders.
• Technical Requirements: DTF films may require specific printers, inks, and operator skills.
• Environmental impact: While the inks used in the printing process for DTF films are usually water-based and have a low environmental impact, the film itself may not degrade quickly, and there are some environmental concerns.
• Storage and handling: DTF films need to be stored and handled correctly to prevent damage or deterioration, which may require additional attention and cost

Applications Of DTF Film

• Apparel customization: DTF films are widely used for custom printing personalized T-shirts, sweatshirts, sportswear, fashion apparel, and accessories.
• Home Textile Decoration: DTF films personalize curtains, bedding, tablecloths, and other home décor items to add individual style.
• Advertising and promotional products: Companies use DTF film printing technology to produce T-shirts, caps, handbags, and other promotional products with company logos or messages.
• Special effect printing: DTF particular film （UV DTF film， Glitter film）can be used to create printed materials with metallic luster, 3D effects, or other special visual effects, such as crystal stickers, glowing logos, etc.

Choosing the Right DTF Film for Your Needs

• Fabric compatibility: Ensure that the DTF film is suitable for the type of fabric you are printing on, as different films may have various levels of adhesion on other materials.
• Film thickness: thicker films may offer better durability but are less flexible, and thinner films are better for intricate details.
• Matte vs Glossy: choose based on the desired look and feel.
• Hot Peel vs Cold Peel: Some films are designed for hot or cold peel transfer, chosen based on individual handling habits.
• Environmental considerations: If sustainability is a priority, look for DTF films that are environmentally friendly or have ecological credentials.
• Cost-effectiveness: While high-quality DTF films may be more expensive, they typically offer better print quality and durability, making them more cost-effective in the long run.
• Budget constraints: Determine your budget for DTF film and find a balance between the quality you need and the cost you are willing to pay.
• Branded suppliers: Research the reputation of different DTF film brands on the market and consider their reliability and consistency of quality.

Conclusion

DTF film is an essential tool for DTF printing solutions, offering flexibility and high-quality results. By understanding its strengths and limitations, you can make informed decisions to enhance your printing experience. You can also contact Winnerjet for high-quality DTF Film to address your print quality and technical issues.

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