DTF PRINTING WORK

The DTF process involves printing the image onto a special film and then transferring it to the fabric using heat and adhesive powder.

​Print to Film: A specialized DTF printer uses water-based pigment inks (CMYK and White) to print the design onto a PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film. Crucially, it prints the design in color first, and then prints a layer of white ink on top.

​Powder Application: While the ink is still wet on the film, a hot-melt adhesive powder (a fine, white thermoplastic material) is evenly coated over the entire printed area. The powder only sticks to the wet ink.

​Curing: The film, with the powder stuck to the ink, is passed through a heating unit (like a curing oven or heat press). The heat melts the powder, creating a strong adhesive layer that is fused with the ink.

​Transfer (Pressing): The cured film (now called a "DTF transfer") is placed onto the fabric (T-shirt, hoodie, etc.). A heat press machine is used to apply high heat and pressure, which causes the melted adhesive to bond the design from the film directly onto the fabric fibers.

​Peeling: Once the garment cools down (often referred to as a "cold peel"), the PET film is peeled off, leaving the design cleanly transferred onto the material.