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There may be different printing technologies for producing custom textile products. But one of them tends to stand out from the rest. We’re talking about direct-to-film printing, which involves printing the design onto a special film to be transferred onto a specific garment. It’s technically a heat transfer process that involves the use of specialty DTF printers. However, it’s considerably better as the results tend to last longer than traditional silkscreen and heat transfer prints.
What makes direct to film special?
Businesses that make custom sportswear and apparel are turning to direct-to-film printing to keep up with the changing trends and demands of their customers. They invest in a high-quality DTF film printer when they realize the features and benefits of printing direct-to-film.
Why is DTF taking the market by storm?
The revolutionary printing technology provides a simpler and cost-effective solution over DTG (direct to garment) sublimation, laser white-toner transfer, or screen printing. It requires specialized DTF printers that allow you to pre-print the transfer designs and then store them to be used later. It’s convenient when someone wants a particular design that’s ready for transfer onto a selected garment because you can simply get the transfer from your storage area. Just be sure you have the right transfer film and powder for the transfer.
How does DTF suit the needs of the local on-demand printing market?
There’s no denying the convenience that direct to film printing can offer to customers that want their designs on-demand. Here are reasons why DTF is beneficial for this kind of market:
Efficient and quick delivery: DTF printers are widely available today, so any small or medium-sized business can easily acquire them and start offering custom textile printing services on-demand. The printing technology enables them to seamlessly fulfill orders quickly to ensure timely delivery to their clients.
End-to-end fulfillment: If you’re currently offering T-shirt printing and other relevant services, a DTF film printer can be a good investment that can diversify your operations for the least possible cost.
Proven reliability: DTF printing is more reliable because it delivers consistent enhanced performance and the ability to use a wider array of designs on more types of fabrics. It eliminates problems like unwanted white lines and distorted images, so you get superior quality printing from start to finish.
What are the steps involved in DTF printing?
Here are the basic steps involved in DTF printing:
- Print the design on the film
- Apply adhesive TPU powder on the PET film (only the printed surface area needs the TPU powder). This can be accomplished with the use of an automatic shaker or manually.
- Melt the powder in a preheated curing oven or automatic shaker for best results.
- Pre-press the heated fabric in a heat press and pressurize it for two to five seconds to flatten and dehumidify the surface.
- Place the PET film with the image and the melted powder on the pre-heated fabric with parchment paper and use the heat press to bond the fabric and the film for 15 seconds at 315 – 325F.
- Let the fabric cool down to room temperature before pulling the attached film off.
- Post-processing is optional but may be necessary if you want to ensure the best results. This means pressing the finished results using a silicone sheet under the heat press for 5 more seconds.
How can you profit from direct to film printers?
With DTF printers, you can offer more textile options to clients and expand your portfolio of services for more ROI. The printing process doesn’t require pre-treatment, which means more savings and reduced manufacturing costs.
Is your printing company ready for DTF printing? STS Inks can provide you with the DTF film printer that you need along with compatible inks that come with the Eco Passport Certification from Oeko-Tex.
