What is DTF? ~ FAQ (Direct To Film)

"DTF", especially related to textiles, is known as Direct to Film (DTF).  It refers to a certain process of printing. DTF printing is a relatively newer method for creating designs on fabrics. This process is particularly used in the customization of garments, textiles, and other fabric-based products. It is has very quickly become the favorite over HTV (Heat Transfer Vinyl).  DTF allows full color images and even photographs, to be printed on all types and colors of material.  From cotton to polyester, black to white, DTF is literally a game changer for many small run applications.

 DTF printing process is as follows:
    1.   Design Creation:
  • A digital design is created using graphic design software. This design can include various colors and intricate details. PNG, SVG, PDF, EPS, AI are all transparent file types that can be used with DTF.
    2.   Printing on a Film:
  • ​The digital design is then printed onto a special film using a DTF printer. The film and ink are specially formulated for water-soluble process.
    3.   Transfer to Garment:
  • The printed film is then placed on top of the fabric (garment) with the design facing down. The film can be secured to the fabric using a heat-transfer tape, though not necessary for some skilled people that are comfortable with the pressing process.
    4.   Heat Press:
  • The fabric and film are then bonded together with heat and pressure using a heat press machine. The heat causes the adhesive on the film to bond with the fabric, transferring the design. Our recommended time/temp/pressure for this process is 320°F for 15 seconds at a firm pressure.  If pressing on 100% polyester or other special blends of fabric, use a lower temp of 290°F.
     5.   Peeling and Finishing:
  • After the heat press process, the film is peeled away, leaving the printed design on the fabric. The printed fabric may undergo additional steps for finishing and curing, depending on the specific ink and material used. We recommend peeling the carrier from the shirt after it has cooled and repress using a teflon sheet for 5-10 seconds.
DTF printing offers advantages such as the ability to print vibrant, full-color designs with fine details on various types of fabrics in small runs. It's often used for creating custom apparel, including T-shirts, hoodies, and other textiles.

What is a Gang Sheet?

In DTF (Direct to Film) printing, a "gang sheet" refers to a single sheet of DTF film that contains multiple designs or images arranged together. The purpose of a gang sheet is to optimize the printing process by allowing the simultaneous printing of multiple designs in a single run. This is particularly useful for maximizing efficiency and minimizing material waste.

Here's how the gang sheet concept works in DTF printing:   
      1.   Design Layout:
  • Multiple designs or images are arranged on a digital canvas in a way that utilizes the available space on the DTF film efficiently. This layout is often done using graphic design software.
     2.   Printing:
  • The entire gang sheet is then printed onto a single DTF film using a DTF printer. The printer deposits the ink onto the film according to the layout of the designs.
    3.    Transfer to Substrate:
  • The gang sheet, with all the designs, is then cut apart into single designs and applied to the substrate (such as fabric) using a heat press. 
By using gang sheets, DTF printers can optimize the printing process, reduce production time, and minimize the amount of film needed for each individual design. This is especially beneficial in scenarios where there are multiple small designs or images to be printed on different substrates in a single printing job. It's a way to achieve cost-effectiveness and improve workflow efficiency in DTF printing, which of course saves the customer money in the end.

What are the Pressing Instructions?

Pressing DTF (Direct to Film) transfers may vary depending on the specific heat press equipment you are using. We provide the most accurate and reliable instructions for our prints, based on our experience and knowledge but you may have to adjust these settings slightly based on your particular equipment.  Pressing instructions provided below are what is recommended for DTF Prints Unlimited and Sweet Texas Tees transfers using a professional heat press.  
    1.    Purchase your Design:
  • Purchase top quality prints from our website www.dtfprintsunlimited.com. Purchasing from a reputable business with many years experience will help ensure you receive top quality prints.
    2.    Prepare the Fabric:
  • Preheat the fabric or substrate to remove any moisture and wrinkles. This step is essential for achieving a smooth transfer.
    3.    Position the Film:
  • Place the DTF film with the printed side facing down onto the fabric. Align it properly to ensure the design is positioned correctly.
    4.    Secure with Heat Tape:
  • Use heat-resistant tape to secure the DTF film is in place on the fabric and won't shift. This helps prevent any movement during the heat press process.
    5.    Heat Press:
  • Set the heat press machine to the recommended temperature of  290°F for polyester and other special blends, to 320°F for cotton and poly/cotton blend.
  • Apply medium to high pressure, depending on the type of fabric.
  • Press the fabric and DTF film 15-20 seconds. 
    6.    Cooling and Peeling:
  • Allow the pressed fabric and film to cool completely. After cooling, carefully peel off the DTF film from the fabric.
    7.    Finishing (Optional):
  • Repress for 5-10 seconds using a Teflon cover sheet over the printed design.​
For best results, always use recommended settings for temperature, pressure, and pressing time. Conduct small test runs to ensure optimal results before producing larger batches, and adjust settings as needed based on your specific equipment.

​** We do not recommend home irons or Circuit Easy Press although some people have satisfactory results with these products and we make no warranty or guarantee on any product after it has been pressed.**