DTF Film

What Is DTF Printing Film?

DTF printer film is a type of PET film specially developed for use in the DTF printing process. It’s an integral part of the system, without which it would be impossible to create these kinds of transfers. Without the DTF film acting as a base, the printer wouldn’t be able to form the transfers.

While most people know DTF transfer film as sheets, because that’s how you see it when you order gang sheets. However, when you do your own printing, you’ll generally buy a roll of DTF printer film. This allows you to make tens, if not hundreds, of sheets (depending on the sheet length that you use).

How Does DTF Film Transfer Work?

If you don’t fully understand the DTF printing process, it can be hard to understand where the film comes in. Here’s a brief overview:

1. A special type of PET film (DTF transfer film) is used as a base to print your design with a PET printer.
2. The printer prints a color design on the film, before covering that design with a white printed layer.
3. DTF powder, or hot melt adhesive, is sprinkled on the wet ink. It only sticks to the white ink.
4. The film is heated using a press or curing oven to dry the powder and stick it to the ink. At this point, you have a usable transfer.
5. The end user preheats the fabric slightly before placing the printed film on the prepared fabric.
6. They then use a heat press is used to transfer the design from the film to the fabric.
7. After the design has been transferred, the film is carefully removed from the fabric.
8. The fabric is pressed again to make the design last longer.
9. As you can see, it’s a fairly simple process, but the DTF film is an absolutely essential cornerstone. If you want the best possible results, stick to high-quality transfer film.