How does DTF work?
DTF (Direct To Film) is a three-step transfer technology: the design is printed onto a PET film with an opaque white base, coated with a heat-fusible adhesive powder, then applied to the fabric using a heat press. Result: a flexible, durable transfer that adheres to virtually any material without pre-treatment.
PET film printing
The design is printed in CMYK + opaque white on a translucent polyester film at high resolution (up to 1,440 dpi). The white layer ensures vivid colours even on dark textiles.
Adhesive powder & curing
A hot-melt powder is applied to the wet ink, then passed through an oven (curing). It solidifies to form an adhesive layer ready for transfer.
Heat-press transfer
The film is positioned on the textile and heat-pressed at approximately 160 °C for a few seconds. The film is peeled cold, leaving the design anchored into the fibres.
Key benefits
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Full textile versatility
Cotton, polyester, nylon, leather, fleece, denim, technical knit — no pre-treatment needed. Where DTG fails on polyester, DTF excels.
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Opaque white on dark backgrounds
The built-in white base makes colours vivid on black, navy and all saturated tones. Zero transparency — photographic rendering possible.
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Flexible and wash-resistant
No cracking or peeling. The transfer stays flexible with the fabric and withstands standard wash cycles.
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Single unit or large run — same price per piece
No setup cost. From a one-off prototype to a run of 1,000 pieces, the unit price in small batches stays competitive.
Compatible materials
DTF works on any heat-tolerant textile — regardless of composition:
Examples of work
Opaque white design + photogradient
Coloured badge, left chest
Multi-colour photogradient motif
Technical specifications
| Print resolution | Up to 1,440 dpi |
|---|---|
| Minimum detail | 1 mm stroke width |
| Colour gamut | CMYK + integrated opaque white |
| Transfer temperature | ~160 °C heat-press |
| Format maximum | A3 (297 × 420 mm) — dimensions standards |
| Compatible substrates | Any heat-tolerant textile (cotton, poly, nylon, leather, fleece, denim…) |
| Minimum quantity | 1 piece — no minimum order |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference with screen printing?
Screen printing requires creating one screen per colour (fixed setup cost). DTF has no setup cost and is therefore cost-effective from the very first piece. It also handles photographic gradients and colour gradients, impossible with classic screen printing.
Does it hold up when washed?
Yes. Washing at 40 °C inside out is recommended to preserve colour vibrancy. Avoid high-temperature industrial tumble drying. With proper care, durability is excellent.
Does it really work on polyester?
Absolutely. This is one of DTF's major advantages over Direct To Garment (DTG): DTG requires pretreatment on polyester and yields poor results. DTF works perfectly on polyester, including high-density sportswear textiles.
What is the production lead time?
48 to 72 h for standard orders. A 24 h express option is available on request. Contact us by email or phone to confirm lead times based on your volume.