DTF stands for direct-to-film. Instead of printing straight onto the garment, the artwork is printed onto a special film first, then transferred to the fabric with heat and pressure.
How it works
- The design is printed in reverse onto a clear PET film with water-based pigment inks, with a white layer on top so colours stay bright on dark fabric.
- While the ink is still wet, it is coated with a fine hot-melt adhesive powder.
- The film is cured so the powder melts into a smooth, even layer.
- The transfer is placed on the garment and heat-pressed. Once it cools, the film is peeled away and the print stays on the fabric.
Why it suits our designs
Our artwork is full of fine lines — record grooves, waveforms, small type. DTF holds that detail well and prints any number of colours in a single pass, so a design with gradients costs the same to make as a one-colour logo.
It also works on cotton, polyester and blends, which is why the same design can go on a hoodie, a tee and a tote without changing the artwork.
How does it feel?
A good DTF print is thin and flexible. It sits on top of the fabric rather than soaking into it, so it has a slight smooth feel — less than a thick screen print, more than a dye-sublimation print.
Want to keep it looking new? Read our care guide.
