How to Use Direct to Film Transfers to Print T-Shirts
How to Use Direct to Film Transfers to Print T-Shirts
The direct transfer method (DTF) involves printing on a film and then applying it directly to fabric. The ability to select almost any fabric is the main element that justifies the use of this process by a larger population. The DTF printing process will do its magic on them, whether they are made of polyester, cotton, silk, or synthetic fibers like rayon or terry cot.
DTF printing requirements
DTF printing requirements don’t require a significant financial commitment from the user. One must invest in the following, regardless of whether they are currently involved in one of the aforementioned digital textile printing processes and want to expand their business by switching to DTF printing or starting with DTF.
Direct-to-film printer
DTF Modified Printers is another name for these printers. This makes it easier to operate because White DTF inks can be put into the printer’s LC and LM tanks while CMYK DTF inks can go into the standard CMYK tanks. In order to avoid “linings” on the white layer printed on the DTF film, the rollers used to slide the page are also removed.
Films
The DTF printing process makes use of PET films. These have better transfer properties and a thickness of roughly 0.75 mm. These are frequently referred to as DTF Transfer Films in market jargon. Cut Sheets (which can be used for small-scale use) and Rolls of DTF films are both available (used with a commercial setup). The method of peeling used after the transfer is another way to categorize PET films. The films come in two varieties: cold peel and hot peel, depending on the temperature.
Software
The process relies heavily on the software. The Software has a significant impact on the print characteristics, color performance of the inks, and final print performance on the fabric after transfer.
Powdered hot-melt adhesive
The white DTF printing powder functions as an adhesive by holding the colored print pigments to the fabric fibers. The DTF hot melt powder comes in a variety of grades that are measured in microns. The grade should be chosen based on the requirements.
DTF inks for printing
These pigment inks are specially formulated and come in the colors Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black, and White. The white foundation of the print on the film is created by a unique component called white ink, which is then printed with colored designs.
An automatic powder sifter
In commercial DTF setups, the Automatic Powder Shaker is used to apply the powder uniformly and to remove the extra powder.
A cure-oven
The hot melt powder that is applied over the transfer film is melted in the curing oven, a tiny industrial oven. A heat press machine can also be used as an alternative, but it must be operated in no contact mode.
Heat press machine
The image printed on the film is primarily transferred onto the fabric using the heat press machine. On the DTF film, it can also be used to warm the hot melt powder.