DTF Printing
Direct-to-Film printing is how we print all of our apparel. It works on any fabric, delivers vibrant colors, and provides the soft feel customers demand.
DTF vs DTG printing
DTF (direct-to-film) printing prints your design onto a transfer film and heat-presses it onto the garment. DTG (direct-to-garment) printing sprays ink straight into the fabric and works best on cotton. Because DTF does not depend on the fabric absorbing ink, it also works on polyester, blends, satin and canvas, and stays bright on dark colors. Printonic prints all of its apparel with DTF.
Why DTF is the Future of Printing
DTF combines the best aspects of other printing methods while eliminating their limitations. Universal compatibility with premium results.
Works on Any Fabric
Cotton, polyester, blends, satin, twill and canvas all take DTF transfers.
Vibrant on Dark Colors
Excellent opacity means bright colors pop on black and dark garments.
Soft Hand Feel
Modern DTF films create a soft, breathable finish that customers love.
Consistent Quality
Reliable results every time with excellent wash durability.
Universal Fabric Compatibility
DTF works on virtually any fabric type with optimized settings for each material.
| Fabric Type | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| 100% Cotton | Excellent |
| Cotton/Poly Blend | Excellent |
| 100% Polyester | Excellent |
| Tri-Blend | Excellent |
| Canvas | Good |
| Nylon/Spandex | Good |
Technical Specifications
Universal Appeal: We print all of our apparel with DTF. One method covers every fabric in our catalog, from cotton tees and canvas totes to the satin bridal robe.
What We Print with DTF
T-Shirts
BELLA+CANVAS 3001, Gildan 5000 and Comfort Colors 1717
Crewneck Sweatshirt
Gildan 18000, 50/50 cotton/polyester
Micro Rib Baby Tee
BELLA+CANVAS 1010, fitted
Infant One Piece
BELLA+CANVAS 100B, 0 to 24 months
Satin Bridal Robe
12" x 8" back and 4" x 4" left chest prints
Ruffled Apron
7" x 6" chest and two 4" x 4" pocket prints
Cotton Twill Visor
3.5" x 1.5" front print
Cotton Tote Bag
Cotton canvas, 10" x 12" print on one side
Teddy Bear T-Shirt
Removable tee, 2.5" x 1.75" print
Gift Sets
Sweatshirt sets like Penta and Dynamic Duo, plus teddy bear tee sets
DTF Production Process
Advanced transfer technology that delivers professional results every time.
Design Printing
Print design with special DTF inks onto transfer film
Powder Application
Hot melt adhesive powder applied while ink is wet
Curing Process
Heat cure the printed film to set the adhesive
Heat Press Transfer
Apply transfer to garment using heat press
Peel & Finish
Remove film backing to reveal vibrant, soft print
DTF vs Other Print Methods
| Feature | DTF | DTG | Sublimation | Vinyl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fabric Compatibility | All Fabrics | Cotton Only | Polyester Only | Most Fabrics |
| Dark Garments | Excellent | Good | Poor | Excellent |
| Hand Feel | Soft | Soft | No Feel | Thick |
| Complex Designs | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Limited |
DTF printing questions
What is DTF printing?
DTF (direct-to-film) printing prints a design onto a transfer film with DTF inks, coats it with a hot-melt adhesive powder, cures it, and heat-presses it onto the garment. It works on cotton, polyester, blends, satin, twill and canvas, stays bright on dark colors, and has a soft feel.
What is the difference between DTF and DTG printing?
DTG (direct-to-garment) printing sprays ink straight into the fabric and works best on cotton. DTF prints onto a film first and transfers the design with heat, so it also works on polyester and blends and stays vivid on dark garments. Both handle detailed, full-color designs with a soft feel.
Does Printonic offer DTG printing?
No. Printonic prints all of its apparel with DTF, which covers every fabric in the catalog, from cotton tees and canvas totes to satin robes.
How long do DTF prints last?
Printonic's DTF prints are rated for 50 or more washes.
How long does DTF production take at Printonic?
DTF apparel is produced in 1–3 business days, then shipped directly to your customer with tracking.
Ready for Universal Printing Power?
DTF printing eliminates limitations. Print on any fabric with vibrant, soft results that customers love.
Start DTF Business Today