What Is DTF Printing?

DTF means direct-to-film. A full-color design is printed onto a transfer film, prepared with an adhesive and applied to the garment with heat and pressure. It is a useful choice for photographs, gradients, detailed artwork and designs with many colors.

A photo of a person or a ten-color design on six shirts is the kind of project where DTF can make more sense than setting up multiple screens. The number of colors does not require a separate screen for every color. The result sits on the surface of the fabric, so a large solid print can feel more noticeable than a small chest logo. Garment material, artwork quality and application requirements still matter.

Can screen printing reproduce a photo? Yes, with halftones and the right color-separation process. DTF is often the simpler option for a small full-color photo order. We will not recommend extra setup work when the job does not need it.

DTF production at Kenmar

Our Mimaki TXF 300 DTF printer produces detailed, full-color images. We use high-quality adhesive and automatic heat presses, with a focus on a soft-feel finish that does not feel unnecessarily thick. The artwork, print size and garment still affect the final feel.

Finishing options

Bagging is available at an additional cost. Labeling options include covering an existing label or removing a tag and replacing it with a DTF size tag. We review the garment and the label requirements for the project before changing labels; required care, fiber-content and origin information must be preserved as applicable.

Talk with Kenmar about your project