Offering premium prints that are durable, vivid, and adaptable, Direct to Film (DTF) transfers have fast become a mainstay in the bespoke garment market. Should you wish to implement this approach for your company, it is vital to grasp the procedure and optimize every stage for the best results. This detailed instruction will enable you to learn dtf transfers and improve your bespoke printing company.
Prepare the Design
Make sure your design is print-ready first, among other things. DTF transfers find optimal use for high-resolution photos (300 DPI or above). Using vector files—such as AI, EPS, or SVG—will help to guarantee that your design prints with sharpness.
Decide on the appropriate ink and film
The success of your DTF transfer depends critically on the materials you choose. Use premium PET film, especially intended for DTF printing. The thickness and coating of the film will influence the transfer; thus, be sure to use the suitable type for your printer and ink.
Film print of the design
Reverse Print your design onto the film using a DTF-compatible printer. Lay down the color layer (CMYK), then cover with white ink. Reverse printing guarantees that the design looks right on the cloth upon transfer.
Dust the adhesive powder
Applying the DTF adhesive powder comes next once the design has been printed onto the film. Since this powder attaches the ink to the fabric during heat pressing, it is important for the transfer operation. Over the wet ink, evenly distribute the powder; shake off any extra.
Fix the design
The pattern must then be cured before being worked onto cloth. For one to two minutes, put the film under a heat press or curing oven set at about 160°C (320°F). The aim is to melt the adhesive powder just enough to turn it sticky without complete bonding.
Move the design to fabric
After curing, lay the film on your cloth, making sure the design is down. For 15 to 20 seconds, run a heat press at 160–180°C (320–355°F) under medium pressure. Heat and pressure taken together will activate the adhesive, therefore adhering the design to the fabric.
Peel the film
Let the transfer cool before pulling off the PET film. Most DTF transfers are advised using a cold peel technique. Pull the film slowly back to expose your vivid design. Reapply the heat press for a few seconds to guarantee perfect adherence should the design lift or fail to completely transfer.
These guidelines will help your company improve the direct-to-film transfer process. Applied to a variety of materials, dtf transfers provides a quick, high-quality approach to producing finely detailed, long-lasting graphics. Excellent outcomes that will wow your clients and support the expansion of your company will come from using the correct tools, supplies, and approach.