How Does DTF Printing Work?

Direct-to-film printing, also known as DTF printing, is a method for transferring designs onto fabric using a combination of heat and pressure. DTF printing can be used for a variety of projects, including creating custom merch for your business, generating products to sell, tackling personal DIY projects, and more!

Moreover, DTF printing is generally seen as a more versatile printing style. In fact, a few of the main benefits of DTF printing include the ability to transfer vibrant colors, durability and longevity in clothing use, a fast turnaround time, and numerous compatible fabric types.

The DTF printing process is relatively straightforward, only requiring five steps:

1.Create Your Design – The first step is to create your design. You can use popular programs like Canva, Adobe Photoshop, or Illustrator.

2.Print Your Design – Next, you’ll print your design onto a special film from a DTF printer. Understanding how a DTF transfer works is important. DTF printers use a special adhesive powder that cures with heat. This powder is placed on DTF transfer paper. Your design may need to settle before pressing to ensure proper adhesion.

3.Source Clothing – After you have your design printed, you will choose the piece of clothing you want to add the design to, such as a sweatshirt, t-shirt, or pair of pants. Cotton and polyester fabric work best for DTF printing. Leather, silk, and denim can also be used, but more work may be needed to prepare the fabric for effective printing.

4.Transfer Design – Finally, you will use a DTF heat press to transfer the design onto your fabric. The DTF heat press applies pressure and heat onto the transfer paper, which then adheres the design to your fabric.

5.Remove Transfer Paper – After you’ve used your DTF heat press, you will gently pull back the transfer paper to reveal your finished product!

Mastering the DTF printing process will take some trial and error, especially when first getting your DTF printer set up. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and adjust your processes as you go. 

If you’re considering offering DTF printing services or creating your own merchandise, it’s important to understand the costs. Here are the common costs of DTF printing:

DTF Transfer Paper – Transfer paper ranges from $50 to $300, depending on the size of the role and the material.

Ink – Ink will be another cost to account for, which ranges from $50 to $75 per bottle.

DTF Heat Press – Heat presses range from $150 to $1,000 dollars.

DTF Printer – A DTF printer typically ranges from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the model.

Fabric and Clothing – Fabric and clothing costs will depend on the quantity purchased and the material. A plain T-shirt could cost as little as $2.

Design Software – Design software is relatively inexpensive, ranging from $10 to $50 per month.

In addition to the above items, other small accessories might also be needed, such as a garment jig or cleaning kits.

Whether you are looking into DTF printing for T-shirts for your company event, a personal project, or to sell online, check out our array of product offerings at Procolored to get you started on your printing journey.