Direct-To-Film (DTF) printing is a garment decoration method that transfers a printed design from a specialized film onto fabric using heat and pressure. Instead of printing the design directly onto the garment like traditional screen printing, the artwork is first printed onto a specialized high-definition transfer film. The film is then applied to the garment with a heat press, creating a vibrant and long-lasting printed design on the finished piece.
DTF transfers are especially useful for detailed or photo-realistic artwork, logos 6+ colors or gradients, and graphics that may not be a natural fit for traditional screen printing. It is also a great choice for personalizing jerseys with individual names or numbers. The best approach for your project depends on your design, garment, and order quantity.
Not sure which decoration method is right for your project? Screen printing creates a printed finish directly on the fabric for logos or designs with five colors or less, while embroidery adds a stitched, dimensional look. Heat press is often a good option for smaller quantities, individual personalization, or complex artwork and gradient designs. Fill out our standard screen printing quote, and we’ll help you choose the best application for your garments, design, and order.
