As popular printing methods, DTF printing and sublimation printing are indispensable whether you are a DIY personal enthusiast or a custom production company.
People often ask: what is the difference between DTF printing and sublimation printing? Which printing method is more suitable for my business running?
The following blog will thoroughly compare DTF vs Sublimation, explaining how each printing method works, its advantages and disadvantages, and their differences.
What is DTF printing？
DTF printing is transferring a pattern onto a DTF transfer film using a DTF printer and then transferring the pattern onto fabric using a heat press. Ideal for customized products in high-efficiency batches.
What is sublimation printing？
Sublimation printing is printing the design on sublimation paper with sublimation ink and then using a heat press to press the ink to be pushed into gas at high temperature and fused with polyester-based material or a unique coating surface to form a bright and long-lasting print.
How does DTF printing work?
Related equipment and materials
- DTF Printer
- DTF Ink
- DTF Film
- DTF Powder
- Heat Press Machine
- Automatic Powder Shaking Machine
- Curing Oven
Printing Steps
- Prepare the design: Use professional software to design and save the print pattern in the correct print format.
- Printing pattern: Design the printing parameters and print the DTF ink onto the DTF transfer film on the film to complete the printing.
- Cover the powder: Sprinkle the DTF hot melt powder evenly on the printed pattern part and shake off the excess powder.
- Heat curing powder: Put the pattern covered with powder into the oven to cure the powder.
- Prepare for transfer: Preheat the heat press to the recommended temperature (160°C (320°F)) and set the pressure to medium. Keep the surface of the fabric flat, clean, and dry.
- Start Transfer: Place the pattern in the center of the fabric and press the heat press for 15-30.
- Peel off the film: Remove the heat press, set the fabric aside, wait for the temperature to cool down, then carefully peel off the transfer film from one corner of the pattern to complete the design.
How does sublimation printing work?
Related equipment and materials
- Sublimation Printer
- Sublimation Ink
- Sublimation Paper
Printing Steps
- Design artwork: Use the software to create your artwork. Make sure the pattern is high resolution and in the correct color mode.
- Prepare materials: Prepare polyester fabric or items with a sublimation coating (e.g., mugs, metal plates).
- Print the design: Print the design onto the thermal sublimation paper using thermal sublimation ink.
- Preheat the transfer: Preheat the heat press, usually between 180°C – 200°C (356°F – 392°F).
- Prepare the substrate: Ensure that the substrate is clean, dry, and has a smooth, flat surface.
- Begin transfer: Align the printed sublimation paper to the substrate, placing it exactly where the pattern will be.
- Press with a heat press for 50 to 70 seconds.
- Cooling off: At the end of the pressing time, switch on the heat press and remove the substrate. Cool and then peel off the sublimation paper to complete the print.
DTF Printing VS Sublimation Printing
| Features | DTF Printing | Sublimation Printing |
| Applicable Materials | A wide range, including cotton, polyester, and blends | Primarily polyester or polyester-coated materials |
| Print Quality | High-quality, vibrant, and detailed prints | High-quality with vibrant colors, but less detail than DTF |
| Durability | Durable and resistant to fading and washing | Very durable; prints are embedded in the fabric, resistant to peeling and cracking. |
| Finished Product Feel | Slightly raised feel due to the powder layer | Soft feel as the dye becomes part of the fabric |
| Application Market | Apparel, accessories, promotional items | Apparel, banners, signage, and promotional products |
| Environmental Friendliness | Generally lower VOCs than some traditional methods | Lower emissions due to fewer VOCs; eco-friendly inks available |
| Order Volume | Suitable for both small and large orders | Best for small to medium quantities |
| Cost-Effectiveness | Higher initial setup costs but cost-effective for larger runs | More affordable for small amounts but can be expensive for larger runs |
Pros and Cons of DTF printing and sublimation printing
Pros of DTF Printing
- Compatible with various fabrics such as cotton, polyester, nylon, silk, leather, and more.
- Prints in vibrant colors and vivid details.
- Prints are long-lasting and durable; prints are washed over 60 times without noticeable fading.
- The high efficiency of bulk order production makes it suitable for enterprises to produce large-scale orders.
Cons of DTF Printing
- The range of printed colors is limited, and DTF printing is more straightforward than sublimation methods.
- The DTF printing process involves multiple steps and longer production times.
- DTF prints stick to the object’s surface and is less tactile than thermal sublimation prints.
- The equipment and related consumables are more expensive, and the initial investment cost is high.
Pros of Sublimation Printing
- Sublimation printing has high-quality prints with vibrant colors and vivid details.
- Durable, sublimation printing has strong resistance to fading and abrasion.
- The print is soft and blends in with the fabric, contrasting with DTF printing; it feels pleasing.
Cons of Sublimation Printing
- Limited applicable materials are only suitable for light-colored polyester fiber or articles with sublimation coating.
- High initial cost, sublimation requires specialized printers and materials as with DTF.
- Complex designs with multiple colors may not transfer well due to the color limitations of thermal sublimation printing.
- The transparent nature of the ink makes it unsuitable for dark-colored fabrics unless specially treated or coated.
Which is DTF printing or sublimation printing better?
DTF printing and sublimation printing have advantages and disadvantages, but how you choose depends on the scope of your business and the needs of your target customers. Contact Winnerjet for technical support if you have any questions after reading this blog post.
FAQS
Is DTF the same as sublimation?
No, DTF and sublimation are different printing methods.
Can you use sublimation ink on dtf film?
No, sublimation ink is incompatible with DTF film; you can only use special DTF ink.
Can I do DTF with a sublimation printer?
No, sublimation printers are used for the printing sublimation process, and DTF printers are used for making DTF.
Do you use sublimation ink for DTF?
DTF printing can only use special ink to achieve the ideal printing effect.
Is DTF or sublimation better?
There is no one better; the choice depends mainly on the scope of your business, the materials you print on, and your customers’ needs.
