Free Shipping on Orders Over $150

How DTF Printing Works

Understanding the Direct to Film process from design to finished product.

Step 1

Design Preparation

Your artwork is prepared for DTF printing. We accept PNG, JPG, PDF, and AI files. Our team reviews each design to ensure optimal print quality.

  • 300 DPI minimum resolution recommended
  • CMYK color mode for accurate colors
  • Transparent background for cut-to-shape transfers
  • Vector files preferred for best quality
Step 2

Printing on DTF Film

Your design is printed using specialized DTF printers with CMYK + White ink onto a clear PET film. The white layer ensures vibrant colors on any fabric color.

  • High-resolution CMYK + White printing
  • Premium DTF inks for durability
  • White underbase for opacity on dark fabrics
  • Mirror printing for correct orientation
Step 3

Powder Application

Hot melt adhesive powder is applied evenly across the wet ink. This powder is what bonds the transfer to your fabric when heat pressed.

  • Fine-grain TPU adhesive powder
  • Even distribution for consistent adhesion
  • Excess powder removed automatically
  • Different powder types for different fabrics
Step 4

Curing Process

The printed film passes through a curing oven where the powder melts and bonds with the ink, creating a solid, flexible transfer layer.

  • Controlled temperature curing
  • Creates strong ink-powder bond
  • Results in smooth, flexible transfer
  • Quality inspection after curing
Step 5

Cutting & Packaging

Transfers are cut to size (for pre-cut orders) or left as gangsheets. Each order is carefully packaged to protect the transfers during shipping.

  • Precision cutting for clean edges
  • Gangsheets for DIY cutting
  • Protective packaging
  • Includes application instructions
Step 6

Heat Press Application

Apply the transfer to your garment using a heat press. Position, press, peel, and you're done! The result is a vibrant, durable print.

  • Temperature: 300-325°F (150-165°C)
  • Time: 10-15 seconds
  • Pressure: Medium-firm
  • Peel: Warm or cold peel

Application Tips for Best Results

Follow these tips to ensure your DTF transfers look great and last long.

1

Pre-Press Your Garment

Press the garment for 3-5 seconds before applying the transfer to remove moisture and wrinkles.

2

Use a Teflon Sheet

Place a Teflon sheet over the transfer to prevent direct contact with the heat platen.

3

Apply Even Pressure

Ensure your heat press applies even pressure across the entire transfer area.

4

Wait Before Peeling

For warm peel, wait 2-3 seconds. For cold peel, wait until completely cool.

5

Post-Press if Needed

For extra durability, do a quick post-press (5 seconds) with a Teflon sheet.

6

Wash Inside Out

Advise customers to wash garments inside out and avoid high heat in the dryer.

Recommended Heat Press Settings

300-325°F
Temperature
(150-165°C)
10-15 sec
Press Time
First press
Medium
Pressure
Firm pressure

Note: Settings may vary depending on your heat press and fabric type. We recommend testing on a sample garment first. Both warm peel and cold peel work with DTF transfers.

DTF vs Other Print Methods

FeatureDTFScreen PrintDTGVinyl
Full ColorYesLimitedYesNo
No MinimumsYesNo (12+ typical)YesYes
Dark FabricsYesYesExtra StepsYes
PolyesterYesSpecial InkNoYes
Hand FeelSoftSoftSoftestThick
Setup CostNoneHighNoneLow

Ready to Try DTF Transfers?

Start with a gangsheet or get a custom quote for your project.