Whether you are new to the world of custom printing or you’ve been at it for years, you might want to step up. Your printing game by experimenting with DTF, or Direct to Film, transfers. One of the top questions people have when exploring this method. Is whether DTF transfers can be printed using standard paper. The short answer is no, but there’s a lot more to understand before you get started, and it’s all right here in this article. Let’s go!
About DTF transfers
Before we get too far into it, let’s start with the basics. DTF is a popular method for creating custom heat transfers. Unlike traditional screen printing or vinyl heat transfers, DTF transfers offer vibrant colors, accurate design and excellent durability. But how exactly do they work?
To understand the process behind DTF transfers, we need to break it down step by step.
Step 1:
An image is printed onto a special film using a modified inkjet printer. This film is coated with adhesive and has a release liner on the back. This is the reason why printing a DTF transfer onto regular. Paper won’t work—without the adhesive and release liner, the design will not be able to transfer onto anything!
Step 2:
The printed film is placed face down onto the garment or fabric that you want to decorate. It’s important to ensure that there are no wrinkles or bubbles in order to get crisp and clear results.
Step 3:
Heat and pressure is evenly applied across the entire area of the transfer using a sublimation heat press. This activates the adhesive on the film and binds it securely to the fabric.
Step 4:
After applying sufficient pressure and heat for a specific amount of time (usually around 20-30 seconds), you can peel off the release liner while it’s still warm. Voila! You have successfully transferred your design onto your chosen fabric!
To print a DTF transfer, you will need a few essential tools and materials. Here are what you’ll need to get started.
DTF Printer:
The first thing you’ll need is a dedicated DTF printer. Unlike traditional printers, these specialized machines. Are designed specifically for printing on polyester-based fabrics using the direct-to-film method.
DTF Ink:
Next, you’ll need high-quality DTF ink. This specialized ink contains pigments that adhere to the transfer film. And can withstand the heat of the press during application.
Transfer Film:
To create your DTF transfers, you’ll need transfer films that are compatible with your printer and ink. These films act as carriers for the design and can be easily transferred onto garments or other fabric surfaces.
Heat Press:
A heat press machine is crucial for transferring your printed designs from the film onto your chosen fabric. This machine uses controlled heat and pressure to bond the ink from the transfer film onto the fabric permanently.
Adhesive Powder:
To enhance adhesion between the transfer film and garment. Adhesive powder is applied over areas where ink will be transferred. This helps ensure crisp lines and vibrant colors in your final print.
Preparation Materials:
Don’t forget basic supplies like cleaning solutions for maintaining your printer, lint-free cloths for wiping down surfaces, gloves for handling inks and powders safely, as well as masking tape or spray adhesive to secure garments in place during pressing.
By having all these necessary tools at hand. You’ll be ready to start creating custom heat transfers using the popular DTF printing method. Experiment with different designs and fabrics while enjoying vibrant colors that truly stand out!
