Direct-to-film printing or the process of DTF transfers is a revolutionary technology in garment printing. It works on all kinds of fabrics including delicate ones like nylon and silk. Also, the results achieved are always amazing. You can print t-shirts, tops, hoodies, sportswear, caps, bags, and other accessories using the direct-to-film process.
What Are The Essentials Of DTF Printing?
For direct-to-film printing, you need a printer, a dryer, and a heat press. Each machine has a specific role to play in the process. Since the process involves the use of several machines, it looks lengthy but in reality, these machines make it easier and quicker. It works smoothly and gives amazing results faster.
DTF Printer
The first machine to be used in direct-to-film garment printing, it is used to print designs on a film. You can say that it is the start of the process. It provides a design that you can transfer to a piece of garment. You are advised to use quality DTF inks to get a clear print that can easily be transferred onto the garment.
Applying Powder on the Film
The film is printed with design is treated with powder. It is an important step as it prepares the design to be pressed on a piece of garment. It is called DTF powder and it prepares the textile ink to be transferred onto the garment during the heat pressing method. The powder is applied generously all over the film and the transfer sheet is sent to a conveyor dryer where the powder melts on coming contact with heat.
Heat Press
Finally, the film goes to heat press where it is pressed with high heat and pressure onto the garment. A heat press is a machine used to transfer melted textile ink onto the garment. The machine is pre-heated to a certain temperature and set to a specific pressure to achieve desired results.
Peeling the Design
A piece of garment is kept in a heat press for a specific time after which the garment is removed for the final process that is peeling the transfer sheet. The process concludes with the sheet being removed from the garment. It is done only when the garment is cooled.
But a UVDTF laminator is used in UV direct-to-film printing which is an innovative method that gives superior results not possible with any other method of garment printing. Also, it is more convenient and affordable than other methods.
