Direct-to-Film Transfer Printing

This new, versatile printing technology is making its mark in the world of apparel printing. With its versatility, Direct-to-film transfer makes it possible to print extremely detailed, vibrant designs on a variety of fabric types, including specialty fabrics like nylon and foam.

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Efficient
Quick & Efficient
Compatibility
Compatibility
Vibrancy
Vibrancy
What is Direct to Film Transfer?

What is Direct-to-Film Transfer Printing?

Direct-to-film transfer is a cutting-edge printing method that continues to grow in popularity. This unique technique involves the use of water-based inks, an adhesive powder and special paper to recreate artwork, by printing it onto a special, coated film paper. Then using a heat press machine, the special film is heat-transferred onto the garment, creating a crisp and bold print.

Benefits of Direct-to-Film (DTF) Transfers

Direct-to-film transfer stands out from other printing methods, in that it offers a wealth of advantages that can’t be accomplished by other techniques. Compared to traditional decoration methods, DTF transfer offers better benefits for business owners and apparel brands. You may be asking…how so? 

Advantages:
Efficient Quick & Efficient: Easy, faster setup = quicker turnaround times & lower set up fees for you!
Compatibility Compatibility: No more limitations on fabric types. Unlike screen printing and heat press, this method ensures top-notch compatibility with just about any fabric type.
Vibrancy Vibrancy: When it comes to replicating artwork with an array of bright colors (and even gradients), DTF surpasses screen printing.

 

Benefits of Direct-to-Film Transfers

What Are the Differences?

Direct-to-Film (DTF) 

Uses an inkjet printer to digitally print the design, then the image transfers onto the garment using a heat press to lock it into the fabric.
Pros
  • Compatible for printing on a wide range of fabrics and products
  • Freedom for design/print locations, and color variations
  • Cost-effective option for both small & large quantity orders
Cons
  • Not as soft and ink won’t fade to the garment, unless an adhesive is used
  •  Less suitable for large-scale orders/printing
Direct to Film Pros/Cons

Screen Printing

Involves using printing equipment that transfers ink into a mesh screen using a squeegee to embed it directly onto the garment.
Pros
  • Excels in printing large quantity orders
  • Allows for printing with thicker ink (thus, longer-lasting)
  • Uses printing press equipment that simplifies & quickens the process
Cons
  • Not ideal for printing photorealistic images with low color count
  • Limitations on ink colors
Screen Printing Pros/Cons

Best Products for Direct-to-Film Transfer

DTF is a great solution for fabrics that are not screen print friendly, such as: nylon, polyester and other synthetic materials. Also note this works with common fabrics such as cotton and blends. Here are some products we think work great with DTF:

AS Colour 1114
AS Colour 1114

Surf Cap

AS Colour 1123
AS Colour 1123

Surf Rope Cap

AS Colour 1180
AS Colour 1180

Active Finn Cap

Columbia 144709
Columbia 144709

Bora Bora™ Booney

AS Colour 5520
AS Colour 5520

Coach Jacket

ITC EXP54LWZ
ITC EXP54LWZ

Lightweight Windbreaker Full-Zip Jacket

ITC EXP94NAW
ITC EXP94NAW

Nylon Anorak

Weatherproof 193910
Weatherproof 193910

Vintage Rain Jacket

ITC EXP99CNBC
ITC EXP99CNBC

Water Resistant Windbreaker

Burnside 8620
Burnside 8620

Quilted Flannel Hooded Jacket

Beimar WB103M
Beimar WB103M

Modern Coach Jacket

Harriton M775
Harriton M775

Nylon Staff Jacket


Need More Options?

Can't find the garment or style you want? Don’t worry, our team is here to assist! Direct-to-Film transfers are versatile, working on nylon, synthetic materials, and almost all fabric types and garments. Contact us, and we’ll help you discover more product options to match your needs and vision.
 

A Quick Guide for Art Setup

DTF: Preferred File Type
DTF: CMYK
DTF: Thin Lines
DTF: Full Opacity
Additional Notes:
  •  Color Expectation
    1. The printed product will not match your monitor, the colors on your screen are not an accurate representation of how the artwork will print.
    2. Transfers are printed in CMYK. You do NOT need to convert your design colors to CMYK.  Please upload in original color profiles.
    3. The printed product will not match our other products 
    4. We do not target colors for this product
  • Max size for pressing is 15”x19”
  • Backgrounds are Transparent

 


 

 

 
Get a Quote
DTF: Get a Quote Tip

Get a Quote Quick Tip

Here's a quick tip for adding Direct to Film or other non-screen printing and non-embroidery methods on the "Get a Quote" form. When you reach the Design step (step 2), select "Other" from the Choose Service dropdown menu. Then, provide the details of the services and products you're interested in. If you need any assistance, please contact us!

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