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The DTG (direct to garment) method quickly became the revolutionary technology for custom T-shirt making at the time it was introduced. But these days, direct-to-film or DTF printing is the most preferred way to create custom and personalized garments. Specially formulated DTF inks further advanced this printing technique, which is currently a better alternative to outdated DTG printing methods such as sublimation and screen printing.
How DTF printing works
DTF stands for direct-to-film and is especially practical for printing digital transfers to customize light and dark color T-shirts in any fabric, such as polyester, cotton, nylon, leather, and other textile blends. With the right DTF ink, you can print any design and heat-press successfully on any garment. It’s compatible with many fabrics—unlike DTG technology which is only suitable for cotton. This means that DTF printers are more versatile.
Custom textile printing companies usually prefer DTF printers to DTG printing nowadays because they won’t have to spend too much time completing a print on textiles. The printers are affordable and the results won’t require any pre-treatment. To ensure quality prints, they use high-quality DTF inks with DTF sheets and powder to successfully transfer the film.
Here’s a quick look at the DTF printing process:
- Print the design on the film.
- Add the powder.
- Heat set.
- Apply to the textile (e.g. shirt)
Get to know the many benefits of DTF printing
- DTF printers improve productivity by being more reliable and producing high-quality results. They allow print shops to handle larger order quantities to keep up with customers who have high-volume demands.
- DTF printing is also highly sustainable, which is a plus for businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact. If you’re conscious about your carbon footprint, you can look into specially formulated DTF ink. It will use around 75 percent less ink without compromising the quality of the results. The ink is water-based Oeko-Tex Eco passport certified and therefore environment-friendly. The printing technology also prevents overproduction, which is an issue in the textile industry. That means less waste preventing unsold inventory.
- Versatility is another advantage of DTF printing. It skips the pre-treatment stage for the fabric but it still delivers better print quality. It requires minimal space compared to other textile printing technologies, too.
- Small and medium-sized businesses can easily get started with DTF printing as it requires minimal equipment, training, and effort. Designs that are printed using high-quality DTF inks are durable and won’t wash off or fade easily, even after being washed several times. The printing process doesn’t discriminate and can produce complex patterns and designs effortlessly. This way, designers can produce a wider array of products such as custom handbags, hats, pillows, and others.
DTF vs. DTG Printing
Which is better: DTG or DTF? Maintenance and pricing are around the same for both. With the right inks and proper transfer method, DTF will provide soft and smooth results. It also allows you to produce custom designs easily.
If you’re currently using DTG and planning to upgrade your operations to DTF printing, STS Inks can help you get started. We carry a range of replacement DTF inks compatible with Epson printers. Our DTF ink for Epson carries the Eco Passport Certificate, which means that it can be used for producing human-ecological optimized leathers and textiles without any harmful effect on environmental and human health.
