DTF Heat Press vs. Traditional Heat Press: What Sets Them Apart?

Textile printing involves the heat-press method. The design called transfer is heated and pressed on the fabric. A heat press machine works according to its features. For example, traditional sublimation, vinyl, and screen-printing-based models work differently from DTF machines.

Let’s discuss functions and features of traditional and latest textile printing machines

1. Performance

Direct-to-film: The DTF process involves the use of a specific PET film for transfer. Also, the design is treated with an adhesive powder to strengthen the bond between the colors and fabric. DTF gives vibrant, high-resolution, and durable prints that retain their gloss and shine for a long time.

Traditional: Different processes such as sublimation for polyester-based textiles are used for garment printing. Some techniques such as heat transfer vinyl (HTV) give excellent results. Similarly, durability of traditional printing methods also varies from one process to another. For example, vinyl transfers degrade over time.

2. Versatility

Direct-to-film: Here, DTF heat press has an advantage over traditional technology. Direct transfer works on a variety of textiles, including cotton, polyester, and blends. You can even print non-textile materials such as leather belts and plastic bags. It has no material restriction, and it gives fine prints on textile and non-textile materials.

Traditional: Traditional printing lacks versatility. It has material restrictions that can limit your textile printing ability. It is so because you need to change the process with materials. For example, the sublimation technique for polyester and HTV for cotton. Traditional process is less versatile when it comes to multi-fabric compatibility.

3. Application Process

Direct-to-film: DTF involves printing PET films, applying adhesive powder to the design, and transferring the design under heat and pressure. The process is simple and suitable for all materials. Here, the design is transferred from one medium to another. PET films are used as a medium for design transfer.

Traditional: HTV is a simple process that makes design transfer easier in specific fabrics. However, screen printing requires extensive setup. It could be a time-consuming job and hence unsuitable for bulk printing. If you have a bulk printing job, you should choose DTF printing.

4. Eco-Friendly

DTF INSTA Heat Press is more eco-friendly because it uses water-based inks and PET films. Direct-to-film is a revolution because it gives excellent results without waste generation. On the contrary, traditional methods involve the use of chemicals and other harmful materials. If you want to start a textile printing business, you should choose direct-to-film technology.