DTF (Direct to Foil)

Direct to Film, or DTF, in the textile context refers to printing with specialised DTF CMYK inks onto a PET film approximately 0.75 mm thick. White ink is applied as a base layer to ensure that the colors remain vibrant, even on dark fabrics.

The printed film is coated with adhesive powder while the ink is still wet, allowing the powder to bond with the color. The film is then cured to harden the adhesive and ink together.

In smaller production settings, this process is usually done manually. For industrial production, automated shaking and powdering systems are available. The powder must be applied as evenly as possible, with any excess removed. The printed film (in rolls) then passes through a drying tunnel at around 140°C, or individual sheets are placed in an oven at approximately 160°C.

The fully printed and powdered film is then transferred onto the fabric. This process, known as “curing,” takes about 15 seconds using a heat press at 160–170°C.

After the first pressing, the transfer film can be peeled away, leaving only the printed design on the fabric. Warm-peel DTF films are less common but more efficient, as they can be removed immediately after opening the heat press.
As a final step, most professionals recommend a second short press to improve wash durability and rub resistance.

DTF prints can be applied to natural fibers such as cotton or silk, as well as to synthetic materials like polyester or faux leather. Thanks to the white ink layer, DTF prints appear equally vivid on dark, bright, or light-colored fabrics. The print itself is flexible and resistant to cracking.