Direct to Film (DTF)

Direct to Film (DTF) Printing is a method of producing full colour transfers for garment decoration that rivals Direct to Garment (DTG), Screen Printing, Sublimation & White Toner Printing. It has never been simpler to create full colour transfers in an economical and speedy fashion.

Printing is onto a special coated PET film. The film is then coated with a lightweight powder adhesive that is used to adhere the transfer to the garment. The adhesive powder can be applied manually or by using an automatic powder shaker. The adhesive is then cured and is ready for normal heat transfer pressing.

What sets DTF apart from other transfers?

Works on Most any Fabrics

DTG technology works best on cotton pre-treated fabrics while DTF opens the door to a wide range of choices and is capable of printing onto non-treated cotton, silk, polyester, denim, nylon, leather, 50/50 blends, and more. It works equally well on white and dark textiles.

A collaboration of leading manufacturers to produce a quality, reliable cost effective system.

The Mutoh/STS VJ-628 DTF Printer brings together a number of leading manufacturers who continue to work together to produce the complete system.

The printer is from Mutoh, a world leader in wide format technology. It is with 6 print channels, C Y M K and 2 White channels. The white channels allow for printing spot white colours and under colour layer.

When it comes to printing inks, STS Inks leads the way with its vast array of high-quality ink types. That’s why you’re guaranteed STS DTF ink has been specially formulated for this process and is made in the US where rigorous quality testing is the norm. For over twenty years, STS Inks has provided its customers with the American made quality they’ve come to expect, and DTF inks are no exception.

STS has become a proven leader in the field of Inkjet inks manufacturing and technology. In 2005, STS opened its first U.S. manufacturing facility headquartered in Boca Raton Florida. As a world leader in wide format, industrial and household inkjet markets STS is recognized for applying cost-effective and cutting-edge technologies in the creation of processes and procedures that streamline ideas into reality.

The RIP technology has been developed with SAI FLEXI, another leader in its field. Modifications of the RIP allows for control to print spot white and under layer.

The coated PET film is manufactured to handle the high temperatures and pressures used from a heat press. Sourced by STS we ensure compatibility with printer & inks. The high-quality printable film works with any desktop or large format DTF printer.

Having the correct adhesive powder can make all the difference in this process. STS inks has such powders, and you’ll be pleased with the results. The powders can withstand up to 40+ washes with great coverage and a high-level transfer rate. And keep in mind, any excess powder can always be reused for the next transfer to get the most out of your investment.