DTF stands for Direct-to-Film, and it's one of the most versatile printing methods we offer. If you want a full-color design on almost any garment — cotton, polyester, or blends, light or dark — DTF is often the answer. Here's how it works and when it's the right choice.
How DTF works
Instead of printing your design straight onto the fabric, we print it onto a special film first, then transfer it to your garment with heat. The basic steps:
- Print: Your design is printed in full color onto a PET film.
- Powder: A fine adhesive powder is applied to the back and melted so it will bond.
- Press: We place the film on your garment and use a heat press to bond the design to the fabric.
- Peel: Once it cools, we peel away the film and your design stays behind — bright, detailed, and ready to wear.
Why people love DTF
- Full color, no extra cost: Gradients, photos, and detailed logos print in one pass — unlike vinyl, which is one solid color at a time.
- Works on almost anything: Cotton, polyester, blends, and both light and dark fabrics.
- Durable: Designs stay vibrant through many washes when cared for properly (turn inside out, wash cold, skip the high-heat dryer).
- Soft and flexible: The transfer is thin, not a thick sticker.
DTF vs. Vinyl vs. Sublimation — quick guide
- Choose DTF for full-color or detailed designs on any fabric or color.
- Choose Vinyl for simple one-color text or logos (names, numbers, single-color designs).
- Choose Sublimation for all-over, super-vibrant prints — but only on light-colored polyester.
Not sure which fits your project? Just message us and we'll point you the right way.
How to send us your design
For the sharpest result, send your artwork in the highest quality possible (high resolution), ideally as a PNG with a transparent background so no white box appears around your design. Don't have a design yet? We can create one for you.
Ready to print something? Browse our products or reach out and we'll help you get started.