DTF Shirt Transfers Explained: Step-by-Step Guide to Get Started with Direct-to-Film Printing

Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing involves design transfer from one medium to another. The design is first printed on a specific PET film and transferred to the garment. The PET film serves as a transfer medium. It is a specific film coated to accept design and treated with a powder adhesive for smooth DTF shirt transfer.

Here’s how the DTF transfer takes place and gives vibrant prints

1. Design Creation

Create an attractive design using Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or CorelDRAW software. You can even convert a photo into a design using software. Use a high-resolution design to ensure crisp, vibrant prints. Another important thing is to make the design RIP software compatible.

2. Printing the Design

You will need a specific PET film to facilitate DTF shirt transfer. The film is coated on one side for printing. You'll also need a quality DTF printer, such as an A3 or A4 model, to print the film. The use of specialized CMYK + White pigment inks improves the final print.

3. Adhesive Treatment

Treat the printed design on the film with a hot-melt adhesive powder while the inks are wet. The adhesive will enhance the adhesion of inks and allow the design to stick to the textile.

4. Curing the Design

Send the design to a curing oven for treatment. The adhesive power needs heat to melt. If you are using a heat-press machine, you can heat the adhesive on the machine. A heat-press machine will heat the design to a specific temperature.

5. Heat Press to Shirt

Place your shirt under a heat-press machine and press the design on the garment. Maintain specific heat and pressure for a certain time to allow the inks to set decently on the textile. The adhesive-treated design will transfer smoothly under heat and pressure.

6. Hot/Cold Peel

Bring the transfer out of the machine and peel the film. If you want it to be quick, you can peel it immediately after the transfer. It is called hot peel. Or you can allow the transfer to cool before peeling. It is called a cold peel. It improves DTF custom prints.

If you want to print your shirt at home, you can buy a quality printer, like Roland BY20, and start customizing your garments at home. With transfer printing, you can rest assured of quality DTF custom prints. You can even start a home-based printing company with the help of a small printer.