Direct-to-film (DTF) printing was developed to address the limitations of direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, particularly in terms of material compatibility and color brightness. It first gained traction in the 2000s and has since experienced significant growth in popularity.

The longevity, vibrancy, and clarity of the prints, as well as the wide range of fabrics on which they may be put, are the most significant benefits of adopting the DTF process for personalised clothes.

This article will provide information about DTF printing guide, precise instructions for generating print files, and typical problems to avoid.

This article will provide information about the DTF printing guide, precise instructions for generating print files, and typical problems to avoid.

What’s DTF printing?

DTF (direct-to-film) printing creates graphics on a specific PET film utilising water-based inks. The design is then applied to the garment with a heat press. This process produces long-lasting and colourful designs on a range of fabrics. Here’s an example of how to create a direct-to-film shirt using print-on-demand.

The design is first printed on a special transfer film using water-based inks. The print on the film is then coated with white ink, which acts as a binder for the adhesive powder.

Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, while similar in name, differs from DTF printing. What is the difference between DTG and DTF printing? Here’s a two-minute video that explains both procedures and takes you behind the scenes.

But wait, there’s more.

DTF printing is no longer just for apparel-printful is now providing bespoke hat printing as well. This expansion allows for colourful, intricate designs on a variety of hat types, increasing the versatility of your brand.

Featured DTF-compatible hats:

5 Panel Trucker Cap | Yupoong 6006
Vintage Cap | Otto Cap 18-1248
Foam Trucker Hat | Otto Cap 39-165
Golf Rope Cap | Big Accessories BA671

What are the differences between print files for DTG and DTF printing?

While there are a few modifications between the two processes, DTG and DTF print files are largely similar. Here are a few things you shouldn’t include in your DTF designs:

Small dots and narrow lines, as there’s a chance of peeling off because of the limited area of the applied adhesive.
Gradient transitions from solid to semi-transparent design elements.
Large prints that cover a large portion of the garment (especially if the fabric is thin) will feel plasticky and will not be breathable.

File prep for DTF printing Guide: Best practices

Tips, suggestions, and disclaimers for your files can be found under our Product Catalog’s File recommendations tab.

Avoid semi-transparent designs

Semi-transparent images (or elements with low opacity) do not work well with direct-to-film printing. We suggest using solid colours.

Have see-through elements in your design

Use see-through features throughout the design to give your print a lighter appearance. In this manner, less ink and glue will be applied to the garment, resulting in a softer finish than massive, solid-color designs.

Create the designs with the necessary DPI.

DPI (dots per inch) refers to the number of dots in one printed inch. The more dots, the better the print quality (sharper and more detailed). Simply inputting a new resolution value will not produce a higher-resolution print. If your graphic’s resolution is too poor, the best option is to create a new one. Submit files in PNG or JPEG format with a resolution of 150-300 DPI.

Skip soft edges for design.s

Designs with soft edges are not suitable for direct-to-film prints because the minuscule ink dots that generate the appearance do not have enough surface area to stick to the garment. As a result, the edge will most likely be rough and blotchy.

Customize products with high-resolution images

Direct-to-film printing is an excellent option for photography designs since it produces full-colour, high-quality images. The higher the image resolution, the better the print quality.

Create files in the sRGB colour profile.

Using the sRGB colour profile guarantees that the colours in your designs are rendered consistently and precisely across multiple devices, such as computer screens and printers. Colour print limits cause extremely bright, saturated colours to look slightly less vibrant. The sRGB IEC61966-2.1 colour profile provides the highest level of accuracy.

Preparing DTF print files for hats

When designing hats, it is critical to consider the distinct curves and seams of each type. To maintain visual integrity, ensure your design fits within the specified print area and avoids key seams.

Most common mistakes

Knowing what causes poor results might help you establish a successful design. Knowing what to avoid is equally vital as knowing what to do. So, here’s what our team has seen lead to unsatisfactory products:

Poor print file quality. Because the DTF printing technique relies on precise, crisp lines, low-quality designs with resolutions less than 150 DPI may result in blotchy, uneven edges, or unclear prints.
Too many small details. Small details, like dots and thin lines, may begin to peel off over time due to the thin layer of glue covering the printed parts.
Huge solid print area. Because the print feels stiff, covering a wide area will result in a garment that is less breathable and less attractive.
Black design on black fabric. Because black print will appear paler or greyer on black clothing, we recommend avoiding black-on-black placement.
Gradient from solid to transparent. The gradient usually originates with little dots, and we’ve gone over why you shouldn’t use dots in your designs.

How to take care of your DTF printed garments

While DTF printing is known for its durability, no print will last unless it is properly cared for. For DTF prints, you need to:

Wash the items in cold or lukewarm water.
Never put it in boiling water; the print will fracture.
Turn the garment inside out when ironing.

That’s it for today

That is all! We’ve covered everything you need to know about preparing your print file for DTF printing, including creating mainstays like personalised t-shirts, hoodies, and other garments.

Printful allows you to customise products and place orders for yourself, as well as launch a dropshipping business and earn money using print-on-demand. If you have any questions or would like us to expound on something, please leave a comment below.