DTF & Transfer Printing
DTF (direct-to-film) prints the design onto a film, adds an adhesive powder and heat-presses it onto the garment. It handles full colour on almost any fabric.
DTF printing has become one of the most flexible ways to brand textiles. The design is printed in full colour, with a white underbase, onto a special film; an adhesive powder is applied and cured, and the transfer is then heat-pressed onto the item. Because the ink never goes directly into the fabric, DTF works on cotton, polyester and blends, light or dark. Classic heat transfers follow the same idea with different films and are used for simpler shapes, names and numbers.
Products that suit DTF printing
Most textiles in our range can take a DTF transfer, including:
- T-shirts, hoodies and polo shirts;
- workwear, jackets and gilets, where the fabric tolerates heat pressing;
- tote bags, backpacks and drawstring bags;
- caps with a suitable front panel.
Some technical fabrics, waterproof coatings and very heat-sensitive materials need a test or a different method; we check this when preparing the offer.
Advantages and limitations of transfer printing
DTF reproduces gradients, photos and multi-colour logos without screens, so there is no setup per colour. That makes it a good option for smaller runs and for designs with many shades, and it keeps edges sharp even on dark garments. The transfer stays flexible and holds up to regular washing when care instructions are followed.
On the other hand, the print is a thin layer on top of the fabric, so on large solid areas it is slightly more noticeable to the touch than screen printing, and it does not have the textured, premium feel of embroidery. For simple one-colour logos on large quantities, screen printing may be more economical. On white polyester, sublimation leaves no layer at all.
How to prepare a design for DTF
Vector artwork (AI, PDF, SVG or EPS) gives the cleanest edges. High-resolution raster files at print size also work, ideally with a transparent background rather than a white box. Avoid semi-transparent effects and very fine detail that would be thinner than the film can hold. We send you a free digital proof showing size and position on the garment, and printing begins after your approval. See our artwork guidelines or request a quote; we will price it for your quantity and artwork.
Products suitable for DTF & Transfer Printing
Other branding methods
Printing, engraving or embroidery — we suggest the method that suits the material, quantity and budget.
Free quote
Request a quote
Tell us what you need — products, quantity, deadline and where it should be delivered. We reply with prices including branding and a free mockup.
- Prices including branding
- Free digital mockup
- Delivery across the EU