How DTF Printing Works: From Design Upload to Heat Press

A Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing solution has proven very efficient for the custom t-shirt design and printing market due to its flexibility, durability, and color output quality. As a business owner, printing organization, or clothing brand, Custom DTF Transfers have made it even easier for you to apply professional-grade designs on fabric. But have you ever questioned what the actual process for making a DTF print looks like? Well, let's take a closer look.

Step 1: Design Creation and Upload

The process begins with a digital design.

     “Artwork is usually created using design software such as Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop and saved as a high-resolution PNG file with a transparent background.”

Once ready, it gets uploaded to either a DTF system or gang sheet builder. It also allows users to resize, duplicate, or arrange multiple designs in an efficient manner within a sheet. This is particularly important while preparing Custom DTF Transfers.

Step 2: RIP Software and Color Processing

Following the upload process, the design is further subjected to processing using RIP (Raster Image Processor) software. This software translates the art work into a readable form for the printers, apart from handling colors, ink density, and resolution.

One of the greatest benefits of Custom DTF Transfers is the presence of white ink in the underbase. This is made possible through the RIP software, which creates a precise white underbase under which colors are applied to ensure sufficient opacity for lighter or darker apparel.

Step 3: Printing on DTF Film

The next step involves printing the design on a special PET film using a DTF printer. Instead of printing directly onto fabric, as is common with many methods of printing, the design in DTF printing style goes onto the film first. The printer deposits the color inks and then the layer of white ink, in that order, in a closely controlled manner.

At this stage, the ink is still wet, which is required for the proper adhesive bonding that occurs in the following step.

Step 4: Adhesive Powder Application

While the ink is still wet, a hot-melt adhesive powder is applied evenly atop the printed design. It is this powder that enables Custom DTF Transfers to adhere well to fabric during heat pressing. Excess powder is then carefully removed to reveal a smooth finish.

Then the film is cured with heat in either an oven or by simply hovering a heat press over the design. This will partially melt the adhesive, preparing it for transfer, without fully activating it.

Step 5: Heat Press Transfer

After being cured, the Custom DTF Transfer is now ready for application to the garment. To transfer the design, the film with the image side down is carefully positioned on top of the fabric, and a heat press delivers heat for a set amount of time. This allows the adhesive to melt, thereby permanently securing the image to the fabric.

Based on the type of film, the transfer can be peeled off either hot or cold, leaving a clean print on the T-shirt.

Step 6: Final Press and Finishing

There are many professionals who do a second press using a protective sheet. This is done to enhance the durability and texture. This final process results in increased resistance to washing and hence a Custom DTF Transfer with a smooth finish.

Why Custom DTF Transfers Are So Popular

Custom DTF Transfers are compatible with cotton, polyester, blended materials, and performance textiles. Their versatility is second to none. Custom DTF Transfers achieve detailed prints, excellent flexibility, and long-lasting prints. However, traditional printing methods are dependent on the printer setup. Custom DTF prints are fast and efficient.