Direct-to-film printing (DTF) is a process of printing on textiles. The process involves the direct transfer of a design by first printing it on a special film and then using a heat press to transfer the design to a garment.
In contrast to Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, in which designs are printed directly onto the garments, DTF employs a two-step process.[citation needed] The first step in the Direct-to-film (DTF) printing method involves initially printing the design onto a PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) film and then applying an adhesive powder to the printed film.[1][verification needed] In the second step, the design from the printed DTF film is then transferred to the garment using a heat press.[citation needed]
DTF films can be prepared using specialized printers, referred to as DTF printers.[2][verification needed][3][verification needed]
The DTF printing process can also be performed at home. After selecting or creating a design using RIP software, the design is printed onto transfer film. Adhesive powder is applied immediately after printing, and the design is then cured using a heat press. Once cured, the design is heat pressed onto the fabric, and the transfer film is peeled off based on the film type (hot-peel immediately, cold-peel after cooling)."How to Make DTF Transfers at Home". DTF Linko .
DTF printed transfers can be used on a wide variety of materials, including polyester, denim, cotton, leather and nylon.[4][verification needed][5][verification needed]
This printing method is used on textiles including apparel such as T-shirts, jeans, jackets, hoodies, sportswear, and accessories like bags and belts.[citation needed] DTF is favored for its cost-effectiveness and capability to produce high-resolution prints. Specifically, for small batch printing, Direct to Film (DTF) printing is cost-effective.[citation needed]