WHAT IS DTF PRINTING?
The DTF process is as simple in its operation as its name suggests: print on film and direct transfer to fabric. The most important factor that makes this process worth using for more people is the freedom to choose almost any fabric. Whether it's polyester, cotton, silk, or synthetic fibers like rayon or terry, the DTF printing process is sure to work its magic on them.
Direct-to-film printer
These printers are often called DTF printers and work with 6 colors. This offers convenience of operation as CMYK DTF inks can be filled into standard CMYK tanks while the printer's LC and LM tanks can be filled with white DTF inks. The rollers used to scroll the page are also removed to avoid "coatings" appearing on the white layer printed on the DTF film.
Films:
PET films are used in the DTF printing process. These films are different from those used in screen printing. These have a thickness of about 0.75 mm and better transfer characteristics. In market parlance, these are often referred to as DTF Transfer Films. DTF films are available in cut sheet form (usable for small scale use) and roll form (used in a commercial setting). Another classification of PET films is based on the type of peeling that is performed after the transfer. Depending on the temperature, the films are either hot peel or cold peel.
Hot-melt adhesive powder:
DTF printing powder is white in color and serves as an adhesive material that binds the color pigments in the print to the fibers of the fabric.
DTF Printing Inks:
These are specially designed pigment inks available in cyan, magenta, yellow, black and white. White ink is a special component which spreads the white base of the print on the film and onto which the colored design is printed.
Heat press machine:
The heat press machine is mainly used to transfer the image printed on the film to the fabric.