Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing is a transfer method that lets you print full-color designs onto a special PET film, coat them with hot-melt adhesive powder, cure them, and heat-press them onto almost any fabric. Unlike direct-to-garment (DTG), DTF doesn’t need pre-treatment and isn’t limited to cotton.
How DTF printing works
- Print your design (in reverse) onto DTF film using CMYK + white ink.
- Powder the wet print with hot-melt adhesive so it sticks to the fabric.
- Cure the powder in an oven or under a heat press until it melts.
- Press the transfer onto your garment, peel, and you’re done.
Why print shops love it
DTF works on cotton, polyester, blends, nylon, leather and more — light or dark. There’s no weeding, no minimums, and the prints are soft, vibrant, and washable. It’s one of the most flexible, cost-effective ways to decorate apparel today.
New to DTF? Browse our supplies and printers or contact us for free guidance.
