Direct to Film (DTF) printing is quickly becoming one of the hottest trends in the custom apparel world. Whether you’re starting a small t-shirt business or looking to expand your print shop’s capabilities, DTF film printing offers a flexible, fast, and affordable solution. But what exactly is it? And why is it so popular?

In this guide, we’ll break everything down for you in plain English. We’ll cover the basics of DTF film, how the DTF printing process works, how it compares to other methods like DTG or sublimation, and what equipment you’ll need to get started. We’ll also dive into the pros and cons, ideal fabric types, and how to avoid common mistakes.

Let’s start by understanding what DTF film really is and why it’s changing the game in modern printing.

What is DTF Film?

DTF film, short for Direct to Film film, is a type of transfer film used in a unique digital printing process. In this method, designs are printed directly onto a special PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film, then transferred onto fabric using heat and adhesive powder. It’s a simple idea with powerful results.

The Origins and Evolution

The concept of printing on film isn’t new. It’s been around in various forms, especially in screen printing. But DTF technology as we know it today emerged in the early 2020s as a more accessible alternative to Direct to Garment (DTG) printing.

Unlike DTG, which requires pre-treated fabric and prints directly onto a garment, DTF printing allows users to print designs onto film and then apply them to different types of fabric with a heat press. That makes it a game-changer for small businesses and creators who want versatility without the high costs of DTG equipment.

Why Is DTF Film Important Today?

DTF film printing is important because it solves real-world problems faced by printers and entrepreneurs:

• Lower startup costs than DTG or screen printing
• Works on a wider variety of fabric types (even dark colors)
• No weeding like vinyl and less setup than screen printing
• Faster production times, especially for short runs

This makes DTF printing ideal for:

• Small businesses creating custom shirts and hoodies
• Print-on-demand operations
• Etsy and e-commerce sellers
• Promotional product companies

If you’re trying to choose the best method for decorating apparel or starting a side hustle in the custom printing world, understanding DTF gives you a serious edge.

What This Guide Covers

Here’s what you can expect in this complete guide to DTF film printing:

• How DTF printing works step by step
• What materials and equipment you need
• Comparison with other printing methods like DTG, sublimation, and screen printing
• The pros and cons you should know before starting
• Common issues and how to fix them
• Which fabrics work best with DTF
• Real-world business opportunities
• Helpful FAQs and expert tips
  

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a solid understanding of what DTF printing is, how to do it well, and whether it’s the right fit for your printing goals.

How DTF Printing Works: Step-by-Step Breakdown

Understanding how DTF film printing works is key to doing it successfully. While it may seem technical at first, the process is actually simple once you break it down. With the right setup and a bit of practice, anyone—from small business owners to home-based creators—can get professional-quality results.

Let’s walk through each stage of the DTF printing process, from design to final transfer.

Step 1: Create Your Design

Start with your digital artwork. You can use software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or free design tools like Canva. Keep these tips in mind:

• Use high-resolution files (300 DPI recommended)
• Keep the background transparent for best results
• Export the final design as a PNG file with layers if possible
  

Make sure your design fits the dimensions of your PET film. You can often customize sheet size based on your printer specs.

Step 2: Print Onto the DTF Film

Now, load your PET film into your DTF printer. This printer is typically a modified inkjet printer equipped with DTF inks—specially formulated to stick well to both the film and fabric.

Here’s how the printing process works:

• The printer lays down white ink first (this acts as the base)
• Then it prints the colored design on top
• A RIP software (Raster Image Processor) ensures the right print order, color accuracy, and ink control
  

RIP software like Acrorip or Cadlink helps manage ink flow, image size, resolution, and alignment. Without it, print quality suffers.

Step 3: Apply the Hot-Melt Adhesive Powder

While the ink is still wet on the film, apply a layer of hot-melt adhesive powder (also called DTF powder). This powder is what makes the transfer stick to the fabric.

Tips for powder application:

• Shake the powder evenly across the design
• Remove excess by gently tapping the film
• Make sure powder fully covers all printed areas
  

Once applied, the film is ready for curing.

Step 4: Cure the Film

You now need to melt the adhesive powder using heat.

Options include:

• A curing oven (best for even results)
• A heat press (hovering above, not pressing down)
• Infrared dryer (for higher-volume shops)
  

The film is ready once the powder melts and forms a smooth, shiny layer. This usually takes 2–3 minutes at around 320°F (160°C).

Step 5: Transfer to Fabric

Place your printed and cured film onto your fabric—design side down. Then press it using a heat press.

Recommended heat settings:

• Temperature: 310–330°F (155–165°C)
• Time: 10–15 seconds
• Pressure: Medium to firm
  

After pressing, let the film cool down (cold peel is recommended), then gently peel it off to reveal the final design.

Optional Final Press (Recommended)

For a softer feel and better durability, do a second press:

• Cover the design with parchment paper or a Teflon sheet
• Press again for 5–10 seconds
  

This step improves washability and gives the print a smooth finish.

Quick Visual Workflow

Here’s a simplified table to recap the DTF printing process:

Step	Action	Tools Needed
1	Create design	Design software (e.g. Photoshop)
2	Print to film	DTF printer + RIP software
3	Apply powder	DTF adhesive powder
4	Cure powder	Heat press (hover) or curing oven
5	Heat transfer	Fabric + heat press
6	Cold peel + final press	Teflon sheet or parchment paper

 

DTF vs Other Printing Methods: Which One’s Right for You?

When it comes to custom apparel printing, there’s no one-size-fits-all method. Whether you’re printing t-shirts, hoodies, or tote bags, the choice between DTF, DTG, sublimation, and screen printing depends on your budget, fabric type, order size, and design goals.

Let’s break it down so you can make the best choice.

DTF Printing vs DTG Printing

Direct to Garment (DTG) printing is popular for detailed designs on cotton. It prints directly onto the fabric using specialized inks, much like a home inkjet printer.

Key differences:

Feature	DTF Printing	DTG Printing
Fabric compatibility	Works on cotton, polyester, blends, and even nylon	Best for 100% cotton
Setup cost	Lower (under $2,000 for basic setup)	Higher ($10,000+ for pro machines)
Pre-treatment needed	No	Yes, must pre-treat fabric
Design durability	High, wash-resistant	Good but may fade faster
Speed for short runs	Faster	Slower per item

When to choose DTF: If you’re printing on different fabric types and want a low-maintenance, versatile setup, DTF printing is often the better option.

DTF Printing vs Sublimation Printing

Sublimation printing uses heat to turn ink into gas, which bonds with polyester fabric. It’s known for vibrant, full-color prints.

Key differences:

Feature	DTF Printing	Sublimation Printing
Fabric compatibility	Cotton, blends, polyester, more	Only works on light polyester
Print quality	Sharp and colorful	Super vibrant (on polyester)
Durability	Strong, doesn’t crack	Excellent, becomes part of the fabric
Color limitations	Works on dark fabrics	Only for white/light-colored fabrics
Startup cost	Lower	Moderate to high (plus blanks)

When to choose DTF: If you want to print on dark shirts, cotton, or offer more product variety, DTF wins. Sublimation is best for athletic gear, mugs, and poly-only items.

DTF Printing vs Screen Printing

Screen printing is the old-school method using mesh screens and ink layers. It’s great for bulk printing but has a steep learning curve and longer setup times.

Key differences:

Feature	DTF Printing	Screen Printing
Setup speed	Fast (digital)	Slow (manual setup)
Ideal for	Small to medium orders	Large-volume orders
Color range	Unlimited (full-color prints)	Limited per screen (adds cost)
Equipment needs	Compact printer, film, heat press	Screens, exposure unit, dryer
Design flexibility	Print any image or photo	Best for solid, bold designs

When to choose DTF: For small orders, custom one-offs, or multi-color designs, DTF is easier and more affordable. Go with screen printing for high-volume runs of simple designs.

At a Glance: Comparison Chart

Printing Method	Best For	Works On	Color Limitation	Startup Cost
DTF	Small runs, versatility	Cotton, polyester, blends	None	Low
DTG	High-res on cotton	Cotton only	Can struggle on darks	High
Sublimation	Vibrant prints on polyester	Light polyester only	Can’t print on darks	Moderate
Screen Printing	Bulk orders	Most fabrics	Expensive for multicolor	High

 

Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re starting a small apparel business, planning to sell on Etsy, or want max flexibility, DTF printing is likely your best bet. It’s low-cost, works on almost any fabric, and is beginner-friendly.

However, if you’re producing large batches of simple prints, screen printing might be more economical over time. And for athletic or polyester items, sublimation offers unbeatable quality—just remember the material limitations.

Essential DTF Equipment: What You Need to Get Started

Before you jump into the world of DTF printing, it’s important to understand the tools and supplies you’ll need. The great news? Compared to other printing methods, the DTF setup is simple, budget-friendly, and doesn’t take up much space.

Here’s a breakdown of the must-have DTF printing equipment.

1. DTF Printer

The heart of your setup is a DTF printer—usually a converted inkjet printer (like Epson L1800 or XP-15000) or a purpose-built DTF model.

What to look for:

• Ability to print in CMYK + White ink
• Compatibility with PET film
• Works well with RIP software

Pro tip: Don’t use regular inkjet ink. You need DTF-specific pigment inks that are designed to bond with the film and fabric.

2. RIP Software

RIP (Raster Image Processor) software is the secret weapon behind clean, high-quality prints. It controls ink placement, color layers, and white ink underbase.

Popular options:

• Acrorip (easy for beginners)
• Cadlink Digital Factory
• EKPrint Studio
  

You’ll use RIP software to:

• Adjust ink levels
• Set color profiles
• Optimize designs for best transfer
  

Without this tool, prints may look dull or misaligned.

3. PET Film

PET film (Polyethylene Terephthalate) is the transparent sheet that holds your design before transfer. It’s specially coated to hold wet ink and adhesive powder.

Types of film:

• Cold peel PET film (most popular): Peel after cooling
• Hot peel film: Peel immediately after pressing

Make sure to buy DTF-compatible PET film that matches your printer’s format (A4, A3, or roll).

4. DTF Ink & Powder

DTF ink is a specialized water-based pigment ink, and DTF powder (also called hot-melt adhesive powder) binds the design to the fabric.

What to know:

• Use high-quality DTF ink for vibrant colors and longer-lasting prints
• The adhesive powder comes in different grades (fine, medium) based on fabric type and finish
  

Tip: Store both ink and powder in a cool, dry place for best performance.

5. Heat Press

A good heat press is essential for bonding the print to fabric and curing the film. You’ll use it for both the transfer stage and the final press.

Ideal specs:

• Flat platen
• Digital temp and timer controls
• Pressure adjustment
  

Recommended settings (can vary slightly):

• 310°F to 330°F
• 10–15 seconds press
• Medium pressure
  

Avoid using a household iron—it won’t give you consistent heat or pressure.

Optional But Helpful Add-ons:

• Curing oven (for melting powder evenly)
• Teflon or parchment sheets (for final press)
• Automatic powder shaker (for high-volume setups)
  

Conclusion: Your First Step into the DTF Printing World

You’ve now got a full understanding of DTF film printing—from what it is, how it compares to other methods, to the tools you’ll need to get started. Let’s quickly recap the key takeaways:

• DTF printing is flexible, affordable, and perfect for small or home-based businesses.
• It works on many fabric types, including cotton, polyester, blends, and nylon.
• Compared to DTG, sublimation, and screen printing, it offers fewer limitations and faster production for short runs.
• The essential equipment is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require a massive investment.
• With a little practice, you can create durable, high-quality custom apparel from your own home or studio.
  

FAQs 

 

What does DTF stand for in printing?

DTF stands for Direct to Film. It’s a digital printing method where your design is printed onto PET film and then transferred to fabric using heat and adhesive powder. It’s a flexible and cost-effective alternative to DTG or screen printing.

What fabrics can DTF printing be used on?

DTF printing works on a wide variety of fabrics, including:

• Cotton
• Polyester
• Poly-cotton blends
• Nylon
• Even dark-colored fabrics
  

This makes it one of the most versatile methods for custom clothing and promotional items.

How long do DTF prints last?

High-quality DTF transfers can last 50+ washes if applied and cured correctly. To extend durability:

• Use high-quality DTF ink and powder
• Press with the right heat and pressure
• Always do a final press after peeling

Wash garments inside out and avoid high heat drying for the longest life.

Can I use a regular printer for DTF printing?

Not exactly. You can’t use a standard home printer with regular ink. You need a printer that can be converted for DTF, usually one that supports pigment inks (like certain Epson models), or a dedicated DTF printer built for this purpose.

You’ll also need DTF ink, PET film, and RIP software to make it work properly.

Is DTF printing good for business?

Yes! DTF printing is ideal for small businesses, Etsy sellers, and print-on-demand services. It has:

• Low startup costs
• Fast turnaround
• High profit margins
• Support for short runs and custom orders
  

Many startups choose DTF because of its flexibility and low learning curve.