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Direct to Film Printers | DTF

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Direct To Film Printing is a great way to add full color to your shop and allow you to do single piece proofing with your clients. We have you covered with a variety of options from small to large format printers.

Vinyl and Tulle Supply currently carries the DTF Station printer which is available in a small desktop version for the hobbyist as well as a larger version printer for commercial and professional uses.

DTF FAQ's

What is a DTF Printer?
DTF (Direct-to-Film) printers are a type of inkjet printer that are designed to print high-quality images directly onto a special film that can then be used for heat transfer applications onto various surfaces. Unlike traditional DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printers that print directly onto fabric, DTF printers print onto a clear or opaque film that is then transferred onto the desired surface using a heat press.

DTF printers use a specialized ink set that is designed to adhere to the film and provide vibrant, long-lasting prints. The ink is typically formulated with a high density of pigment to provide deep, rich colors that can withstand multiple washes and maintain their vibrancy over time.

One of the key benefits of DTF printing is that it can be used to print on a wide variety of surfaces, including cotton, polyester, nylon, leather, and more. This makes it a versatile printing method that is popular in the garment decorating industry.

To use a DTF printer, you will need to purchase a DTF film, load it into the printer, and print your design using the specialized ink set. Once the design is printed onto the film, it can be transferred onto the desired surface using a heat press. The film adheres to the surface and becomes a permanent part of the fabric or material.
Overall, DTF printing is a popular alternative to traditional DTG printing that offers greater versatility and the ability to print on a wider range of materials.

What kind of printer do I need for DTF Printing?
A DTF or Direct to Film printer is a printer specifically designed to use DTF inks and print DTF transfers. We would recommend any of the printers listed above!

What kind of ink is used for DTF Printing ?
Direct to Film Inks (DTF) are a specialized type of ink used in DTF printing. These inks are designed to be used with DTF printers to produce high-quality, vibrant images on a special film that can be transferred onto a variety of surfaces using a heat press.

DTF inks typically consist of a high-density pigment suspended in a water-based carrier solution. The pigment is specially formulated to adhere to the DTF film and produce rich, vibrant colors that can withstand multiple washes and maintain their vibrancy over time.

There are several types of DTF inks available on the market, including eco-solvent, UV-curable, and water-based inks. Eco-solvent DTF inks are the most common type and are designed to work with a wide variety of DTF printers. UV-curable DTF inks are a newer type of ink that offer faster drying times and increased resistance to fading and abrasion. Water-based DTF inks are another option that are environmentally friendly and produce high-quality, long-lasting prints.

When choosing DTF inks, it is important to consider factors such as color vibrancy, wash fastness, and compatibility with your specific DTF printer. It is also important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for storing and using the inks to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Is DTF Printing the same as screen printing?
No, DTF printing offers greater flexibility compared to screen printing as it allows you to apply designs in a wider range of areas on the shirt. Moreover, in specific scenarios like small print runs, DTF printing can be a more economical option than screen printing, making it a cost-effective choice for many businesses.

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