Overview

A DTF (Direct-to-Film) printer is a type of printer used to transfer designs onto various materials, primarily fabrics, in the textile and apparel industry. It uses a process where designs are first printed onto a special film using specialized inks, typically including CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) and white ink. After the design is printed on the film, it is coated with a powdered adhesive, which is then cured using heat. The final design can be transferred onto a garment or fabric using a heat press machine. 

DTF printing is popular because it allows for high-quality, vibrant designs with good durability on a wide range of fabrics and materials, including cotton, polyester, leather, and more. It’s also considered more versatile and cost-effective compared to traditional methods like screen printing or sublimation, especially for small to medium-sized production runs and for designs with complex details or multi-color prints. 

Here’s a breakdown of the process:-

1. Design Printing: The printer prints the design onto a special PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) film using inkjet technology.

2. Adhesive Application: After printing, a layer of adhesive powder is sprinkled onto the printed film while the ink is still wet. The powder sticks to the ink.

3. Curing: The film with the adhesive powder is heated, causing the powder to melt and bond to the ink, making the design ready for transfer.

4. Heat Transfer: The printed film is then placed on the fabric, and a heat press is used to transfer the design to the material.

  Applications