Direct to Film
What is Direct to Film?
Direct to Film (DTF) is a modern print process where your artwork is printed onto a special PET film using water-based CMYK + White inks, then bonded to fabric with a hot-melt adhesive powder and a heat press.
Unlike screen printing, there are no screens to burn and no minimum order. This makes DTF ideal for single pieces, small runs, photographic artwork, and designs with gradients or fine detail.
The result is a soft, flexible, full-colour transfer with excellent wash durability and vibrant colour output — even on dark garments, without the need for a separate white base print.
The Process
File Preparation
Your design is prepared as a high-resolution RGB or CMYK file (minimum 300 DPI). DTF handles unlimited colours, gradients, and photographic images with no separations required.
Film Print
Artwork is printed onto a clear PET film in reverse. A white underbase layer is printed automatically, ensuring vivid colour output on both light and dark garments.
Adhesive Powder
Hot-melt adhesive powder is applied evenly over the wet ink while it is still tacky. The film then passes through a curing oven, melting the powder into a smooth bonding layer.
Heat Press
The cured film is placed onto the garment and pressed at 160–170°C for 10–15 seconds. The adhesive bonds the ink to the fabric. The film is peeled away — hot or cold peel depending on film type.
DTF vs. Screen Printing
Notes & File Guide
File Format
Supply artwork as a PNG with transparent background, or a PDF/AI file. We accept RGB colour mode — our rip software handles colour conversion. Minimum 300 DPI at print size.
Gradients & Photos
DTF handles photographic images and complex gradients natively. No need to simplify artwork or limit colour counts. Halftone-free — smooth continuous tone is printed directly.
Care Instructions
Wash inside-out in cold water. Tumble dry low or hang dry. Do not iron directly on the print. With proper care, DTF transfers maintain vibrant colour through 50+ wash cycles.
Ready to print?
Get a Quote
No minimums. No setup fees. Upload your artwork and we'll get back to you within one business day.
Request a Quote