The Ultimate Guide to DTF Printing: Understanding DTF Ink, Film & Powder

DTF printing involves design transfer from one medium to another. It is the most versatile and profitable method of textile printing. The design is printed on a specific DTF film made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The ink used for printing is specially formulated with pigments. A hot-melt adhesive is also used to strengthen the bond between colors and the fabric.

Important Factors in DTF Printing

A DTF printer prints the design on a PET film using water-based pigment colors. The colors are spread with an adhesive. The design is curated before transferring to the garment. The process shows that the quality of the medium, colors, and adhesive play a crucial role in determining the final print's quality.

1. DTF Ink: The Foundation of Vibrant Prints

Depending on your printer's make and model, you need a specially formulated pigment-based ink for textile printing. The colors you get are a combination of CMYK and white. You can do amazing things with these colors.

CMYK Ink: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black. Together, these colors form the base color of any design. 

White Ink: It is used to layer dark garments. Colors pop up on a white base.   

Key Highlights:

• High resistance to detergents and harmful foreign elements

• Flexible and stretchable designs

• Excellent color vibrancy

Quality ink compatible with your printer prevents printer issues and poor prints. Low-quality inks could block the printheads, leading to inconsistency.

2. DTF Film: The Transfer Medium

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material is used to make the transfer medium. The medium receives the design and transfers it to the fabric. PET films come in cold peel and hot peel varieties. They can withstand high heat and intense pressure. 

Cold Peel: DTF printing involves high heat and pressure. The design is allowed to cool before the film is peeled.

Hot Peel: The film is peeled even when the design is warm. It prevents the design from smudging.

Features to look for:

• Anti-static and anti-curl PET films improve workflow

• High-quality films absorb and transfer inks perfectly

• A smooth finish is necessary for easy adhesive application and transfer

A high-quality PET film holds the colors well and transfers the design smoothly to the garment. The result is always sharp and vibrant.

3. DTF Powder: The Secret Adhesive

A hot-melt adhesive is responsible for creating a strong between the colors and the fabric. The powder is evenly spread over the fresh print and curated. It dissolves in the colors, making a strong adhesion.

Types of adhesives:

Fine Adhesive: It gives a smooth finish and is suitable for light and thin fabrics.

Coarse Adhesive: It is used for a stronger bond for thick and heavy garments.

Benefits:

• Enhanced adhesion and durability

• Creates a soft touch on garments and increases flexibility

• Heat activation ensures long-lasting results

• Adhesive allows prints to withstand harmful elements

The adhesive is cured at a temperature of 160–170°C for about 2–3 minutes. However, the temperature and time vary from one fabric to another. The quality of the adhesive can influence the final results.