DTF printing
DTF Printing – Quality and Durable Printing Technology
DTF (Direct to Film) is a modern printing method that offers exceptional quality and durability. This process allows you to transfer any graphic design or logo onto various textiles, including cotton, polyester, or blended materials. Unlike other techniques such as screen printing or sublimation, DTF printing guarantees sharp details, vivid colours and high resistance to washing.
Application
DTF printing is applied by printing the design on a special film using a professional printer. An adhesive powder is applied to this film to ensure a firm bond with the textile. The design is then transferred to the fabric using a heat press, firmly attached through heat and pressure. After cooling, the film is removed, leaving the textile with a high-quality, durable print featuring sharp details and vivid colours.
Requirements for graphic files for DTF printing
For best results, your design must meet the following technical specifications:
We accept files in PNG format with a transparent background. A transparent background is important so that only the design is transferred to the textile without unwanted edges.
The design should be in a 1:1 ratio to the final print size you wish to have on the textile. We recommend a minimum resolution of 300 DPI (dots per inch) to ensure a sharp and high-quality result, even for smaller details.
- To ensure that the colours of your design match the finished print as closely as possible, you must convert the colours to a CMYK colour profile. This colour mode will ensure a truer representation of the colours when printing, which is key to achieving an accurate result.
The price of DTF printing is determined individually. However, the starting price is 0.78 CZK per 1 cm². For more information, please send us an inquiry either by email at info@irisboutique.cz or via WhatsApp at +420 725 084 133.
If you are unsure whether your file meets these requirements, we will be glad to advise and assist you in preparing your graphics for printing.
Advantages and Disadvantages of DTF Printing
Advantages
DTF printing allows you to print highly complex and detailed graphics, including colour gradients, fine lines, and photorealistic images. Embroidery is limited by the thickness of the threads and the amount of detail that can be embroidered, which means that delicate and complex designs can be problematic in embroidery.
Unlike other printing techniques, DTF is versatile and can be applied to various fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blended materials, and even fabrics that are problematic for other printing methods.
Disadvantages
Because DTF printing creates a thin layer on the textile, it can be slightly less breathable than, for example, sublimation or embroidery, where the print goes deeper into the fibres. This can cause the print to appear slightly stiff on the garment, especially for large areas of print, which may not always be ideal for certain types of clothing.
Embroidery is practically intact even after numerous washes because the threads are firmly embedded in the fabric. While DTF printing is durable, it can lose some of its colour or elasticity over time if washed frequently at higher temperatures or if not handled properly.
Care instructions for DTF printed clothing:
We recommend washing clothes inside out at a maximum temperature of 40 °C. Avoid using aggressive detergents and bleaches, which can damage the colours of the print.
If necessary, iron inside out or use a protective cloth between the print and the iron and set the temperature to low.
We do not recommend tumble drying. If this cannot be avoided, choose lower temperatures and a gentle cycle. It is ideal to let the textile air dry freely.
Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause the print to fade.
DTF prints are best cared for through regular washing and drying according to the instructions above.