Direct to Film (DTF) printing is one of the fastest-growing methods in custom apparel—and for good reason. It combines the flexibility of digital printing with the durability of traditional methods, without the usual headaches.
If you’ve struggled with vinyl weeding, screen setup costs, or DTG maintenance, DTF is likely the solution you’ve been looking for.
What Is DTF Printing?
DTF stands for Direct to Film. Instead of printing directly onto a garment, the design is printed onto a special film using water-based inks and white ink. Adhesive powder is applied, cured, and then the transfer is heat-pressed onto the garment.
The result is a soft, durable, full-color print that works on almost any fabric.
How the DTF Process Works (Simple Version)
Design is printed in full color + white ink
Adhesive powder is applied and cured
Transfer is heat pressed onto the garment
Film is peeled, leaving the design bonded to the fabric
No cutting. No weeding. No pre-treatment.
Why DTF Is Replacing Vinyl (HTV)
Vinyl looks fine—until you factor in labor and durability.
HTV requires cutting, weeding, layering, and longer press times. Complex designs slow everything down. DTF prints the entire design in one pass, including gradients, small text, and full color.
DTF advantages over vinyl:
- No weeding or layering
- Handles complex artwork easily
- Softer feel on the garment
- Better stretch and wash durability
- Faster production for bulk or repeat orders
Why DTF Beats Screen Printing for Small Runs
Screen printing still works for large, single-design runs—but it falls apart for small orders.
Screen printing problems:
- Setup fees
- Minimum order quantities
- Long turnaround times
- Not cost-effective under ~50 pieces
DTF has none of those issues. One shirt or one hundred shirts cost essentially the same per print, making it ideal for small businesses, online sellers, and custom orders.
DTF vs Other Printing Methods (Quick Comparison)
DTF: Works on all fabrics, no minimums, full color, durable
Vinyl: Labor-heavy, limited detail, slower production
Screen Print: Cheap at scale, expensive upfront, limited flexibility
DTG: High maintenance, fabric limitations, white ink issues
DTF hits the sweet spot for flexibility, cost, and quality.
What Fabrics Can DTF Be Used On?
DTF works on:
- Cotton
- Polyester
- Cotton/poly blends
- Light or dark garments
- Performance fabrics
No special coatings or treatments required.
Is DTF Durable?
Yes—when done correctly.
High-quality DTF transfers withstand repeated wash cycles without cracking or peeling. Proper curing, ink density, and adhesive quality matter. Cheap transfers fail fast. Commercial-grade transfers don’t.
Why Businesses Are Switching to Outsourced DTF
Running a DTF printer means maintenance, white ink management, downtime, and learning curves. Many shops now outsource transfers instead.
Outsourcing DTF means:
- No equipment costs
- No printer maintenance
- Faster turnaround
- Consistent results
- Lower risk
You focus on selling and pressing. We handle the printing.
Why Choose UploadDTF
UploadDTF produces commercial-grade DTF transfers using professional equipment, quality films, and tested curing processes. No shortcuts.
Whether you need single transfers or full gang sheets, you get consistent color, strong adhesion, and fast shipping.
Ready to Try DTF Printing?
Upload your artwork, order your transfers, and press with confidence.
Order DTF transfers or gang sheets today at UploadDTF.com.