Direct-To-Film

 

Direct to Film (DTF) transfer technology is an innovative method that has gained significant traction in the printing industry. This technique allows for the creation of high-quality, vibrant designs that can be transferred onto various fabrics, making it a popular choice for custom apparel and promotional products.

The DTF process involves several key steps:

  1. A design is printed onto a special film using a DTF printer. (This printer utilizes water-based inks that are specifically formulated to adhere to the film.)
  2.  A powder adhesive is applied to the wet ink. (This adhesive is crucial as it ensures that the ink will bond effectively with the fabric during the transfer process.)
  3. After the adhesive is applied, the film is cured using heat, which activates the adhesive and prepares it for transfer.
  4. The final step involves placing the film onto the desired fabric and applying heat and pressure using a heat press or iron. This process allows the ink and adhesive to penetrate the fabric fibers, resulting in a durable and vibrant design that is resistant to fading and cracking.

One of the primary advantages of DTF technology is its versatility. It can be used on a wide range of materials, including cotton, polyester, and blends, making it suitable for various applications. Additionally, DTF transfers can produce intricate designs with fine details and a wide color gamut, which is often challenging to achieve with traditional screen printing methods.

Statistically, DTF transfers have shown to provide a higher level of durability compared to other transfer methods. Research indicates that DTF prints can withstand multiple washes without significant degradation in quality, with some studies reporting up to 50 washes while maintaining color vibrancy and adhesion. This durability makes DTF an attractive option for businesses looking to produce long-lasting custom apparel.

Furthermore, DTF technology is known for its efficiency in production. The process allows for short runs and quick turnaround times, which is particularly beneficial for businesses that require rapid fulfillment of custom orders. This capability is supported by the fact that DTF printing does not require the same setup time as traditional screen printing, making it a cost-effective solution for small to medium-sized orders.

Choose Toronto Transfers as your DTF source and let's create, craft and laugh together!