If you’re looking to expand your print capabilities and increase the types of items your business can produce, you may be interested in incorporating direct to film printing into your workflow. This type of printing method is extremely versatile and allows you to work with a variety of different fabrics and materials. Unlike other printing techniques, it doesn’t require pre-treatment of the fabric before printing, making it ideal for high-quality cotton products and more durable textiles like polyester t-shirts and fleece. In addition, it enables more intricate and detailed prints with extreme accuracy and durability.
In this article, we’ll explore the basics of this cutting-edge printing technology and how it differs from screen printing. You’ll also learn about some of the benefits that make it a great option for your company and some of the ways you can use it to create beautiful and unique designs.
What Is DTF Printing?
DTF printing, or direct to film printing, is a new and innovative method of printing that has emerged in the garment decor industry. This process involves printing directly onto a sheet of transfer paper or film, which can then be transferred to the fabric you’re working with using heat. The benefit of this technique is that it allows you to print on a wide range of fabrics, including both natural and synthetic materials, and it offers better color vibrancy and accuracy than other print methods.
To begin, you’ll need a dedicated printer that can produce DTF transfers. These printers are usually called DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printers and are available in various models, so be sure to do your research before purchasing one. In addition, you’ll need a sheet of transfer paper or film and specialized inks that are designed for this printing method. Once you have all of these elements, you can start the process of creating your designs.
Compared to screen printing, the DTF printing process is significantly less time-consuming. It requires fewer steps and can be used for large print runs. It’s a good choice for companies that are looking to maximize their production time while reducing the amount of equipment they need to operate. This makes it ideal for companies that only have a limited amount of space and need to produce a lot of garments quickly.
Once you’ve completed the design, apply a layer of adhesive powder to the printed film. This will ensure that the transfer is secure when applied to the garment. Then, cure the film in a curing oven or heat press. Once the film is cured, you can apply it to the garment and heat-press it again. The result will be a smooth and vibrant print that is extremely durable.
It’s important to remember that while DTF printers seem easy to use, they do have a bit of a learning curve. There’s a bit more to them than merely inserting paper into the tray and hitting “print.” To get quality results, you need to have a properly set up workspace that’s free of dust, debris, and other contaminants. This will help keep the machine running smoothly and ensure that your finished product is as perfect as possible. direct to film printing
