What is DTF?
If you've been involved in any kind of printing or if you are just starting out - you may have noticed that Direct-To-Film has taken this world by storm!
In the graphic design and printing context, DTF stands for "Direct to Film." DTF is an innovative printing technique that enables the direct transfer of digital designs onto a specialized transfer medium. This process involves using a high-quality inkjet printer to print the design onto a specialized film, utilizing professional textile inks specifically formulated to bind effectively to fabrics.
To ensure the design appears correctly once transferred to the garment, it is printed in reverse on the film. In our transfers, we utilize a cold peel method, where the backing is peeled off the design after it has cooled. The heat applied during the transfer process effectively transfers the ink from the film backing to the fabric, securely adhering the design to the garment. Once the transfer is complete, you can effortlessly remove and dispose of the film, leaving behind a beautifully transferred design.
What does Axiland Southeast offer? How can I purchase ready-to-press DTF designs?
As your destination for all Heat Transfer Supplies, Axiland Southeast is proud to offer Direct-To-Film (DTF) transfers that are ready to purchase directly from our website or at our store. You can find our website collection right here.
In addition to our ready to press transfers, we also offer custom DTF transfer options!
DTF printers can come at a high price. If you are not ready to make the investment for one, fear not! As Axiland Southeast, we are happy to offer you custom DTF print services. This means all you need to do is send us your design, tell us your dimensions, and the quantity needed. As customer service is number one on our mind, you do not have to worry about setting up the design on a gang sheet, we will do the setup for you at no charge!
Once your design is printed, all you need to do is use your heat press to transfer your DTF design directly over your garment. For this follow the below simple steps:
1. Set up the heat press: Preheat your heat press machine to the appropriate temperature and adjust the pressure settings as per the manufacturer's guidelines. This will ensure optimal adhesion and durability of the transfer.
2. Apply the transfer to the garment: Place the DTF film with the printed design onto the desired location on the garment. You will not mirror the transfer, as it is a ready-to-press design. Just apply the film as is onto the garment. Close the heat press machine and apply firm and even pressure for the recommended duration. Once the time is up, carefully remove the film to reveal the transferred design, ensuring not to disturb or stretch the garment.
For transfers purchased directly from our offerings, the recommended heat & press time options are:
- Temp: 310-315 Degrees Fahrenheit
- Press Time: 10-12 Seconds
- Medium Pressure Applied
- Cold Peel
Note: After the initial 10-12 seconds of pressing, peel the protective film off of the garment. Repress the design with teflon for 3-4 (max) more seconds.
Our DTF designs can be pressed on any material, including
- Cotton
- Polyster
- Rayon
- Cotton / Poly Blends
- Suede
- Velvet Suede
- and more...