What is a DTF transfer?
DTF stands for direct to film. A design is printed in full colour onto a special film, coated with a fine adhesive powder and cured. The finished transfer is then pressed onto the garment with heat and pressure, and the film is peeled away to leave the design bonded to the fabric.
Because the design is printed rather than cut or stitched, DTF can reproduce photographs, gradients and fine detail in as many colours as the artwork needs. That makes it one of the most flexible ways to decorate clothing, and it is the method behind many of the t-shirts, hoodies and bags we produce at Inastitch.
How does DTF printing work, step by step?
- Your artwork is prepared and checked so the colours and edges print cleanly.
- The design is printed onto a clear film with textile inks, including a white layer that keeps colours bright on dark fabrics.
- An adhesive powder is applied to the wet print and cured with heat.
- The transfer is placed on the garment and pressed at the right temperature, pressure and time for that fabric.
- The film is peeled away, leaving the design bonded to the garment.
Which designs suit DTF printing?
- Full-colour logos and designs with many colours or gradients.
- Photographs and detailed illustrations.
- Large back prints, where stitching would be heavy and costly.
- Individual names and numbers, such as club kit or event tees.
- Small runs, because there are no screens to set up for each colour.
Which garments can you DTF print?
DTF works on a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester and many blends, which is why it suits t-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, sportswear and bags. Browse our t-shirts for popular printing blanks. Very textured, heat-sensitive or waterproof-coated fabrics need checking first, so tell us what the garment is before you order.
DTF, embroidery or vinyl: which should you choose?
Choose DTF when
The design has lots of colours or fine detail, the print area is large, or each garment needs a different name or number.
Choose embroidery when
You want a raised, hard-wearing logo on polos, jackets, softshells or caps that will be washed often and worn every day. Embroidery also gives a premium look for staff uniforms.
Choose vinyl when
The design is simple, with one or two solid colours, such as a name or a short line of text.
Our existing guide to embroidery versus other printing methods covers the comparison in more detail, and our DTF printing service page explains how we produce DTF orders.
How long do DTF prints last?
A DTF print that is applied at the right heat and pressure bonds to the fabric and flexes with it, so it stands up well to everyday wear. How long it lasts also depends on how the garment is washed. Turning it inside out, washing at a moderate temperature and avoiding high heat in the tumble dryer all help. Our care guide for branded workwear covers washing in more detail.
Can DTF be used on hi-vis?
Hi-vis needs particular care, because any decoration must not reduce the fluorescent and reflective areas the garment relies on. Read our guide on whether you can embroider or print on hi-vis before you order branded hi-vis.
What artwork do you need for DTF?
The best results come from a high-resolution file. A vector file such as AI, EPS, SVG or PDF is ideal, and a large PNG with a transparent background also works well. If you only have a small image or a photo of your logo, send it anyway and we will tell you whether it needs redrawing first.
Do we supply customers near you?
We are based in Worcestershire and dispatch orders across the UK, and customers nearby can arrange local collection. See how we work with customers locally on our pages for embroidery in Dudley and embroidery in Halesowen, or browse all areas we serve in the West Midlands.
Frequently asked questions about DTF transfers
Does DTF printing peel or crack after washing?
A DTF print that is applied at the right heat and pressure bonds to the fabric and flexes with it. Washing inside out at a moderate temperature and avoiding tumble-drying on high heat helps the print last.
Is DTF better than screen printing for small orders?
For small and medium runs, especially with many colours, DTF is usually more practical because there are no screens to make for each colour. We will advise on the best method for your quantity.
Can you print names and numbers with DTF?
Yes. DTF handles individual names and numbers well. Send us a list of names, numbers and sizes and we will build them into your quote.
Can you embroider or print detailed logos?
Most logos can be reproduced. Very small text or fine gradients are usually better printed with DTF, while bold shapes and lettering suit embroidery. We will tell you which method will give the cleanest result before you commit.
Is there a minimum order?
We welcome small orders as well as large ones, so a sole trader kitting out one van and a club ordering a full squad are both looked after. Tell us your quantity when you ask for a quote and we will advise on the best value option.
Get a quote for DTF printing
Send us your design, the garments and the quantity, and we will come back with a quote and a proof. You can request a quote, call 07825 818684 or message us on WhatsApp.
