Direct-to-film (DTF) transfer printing is creating quite a buzz in the decorated garment marketplace. However, with the DTF process being so new, many have been unable to find answers to questions on this emerging technology or information they need to know before making the decision to implement DTF into their business. When looking to start or expand into DTF transfer printing, businesses have a variety of factors to consider.

While making a DTF transfer is a relatively simple process, proper application and equipment training can help determine how fast a business can start producing a sellable product. Knowing who is going to train you and how much experience they have with the equipment they are providing is very important. Be sure to ask about training, how extensive it will be, what type of training (in-person, online, videos, etc.), how long the training will be, and so forth.

Like the very early years of direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, where some companies repurposed desktop and large-format inkjet printers to create a cobbled-together solution, the same is taking place today with DTF transfer printing to print onto DTF film. The main drawback of using modified, non-purposed built equipment is that there is a possibility that no warranty or manufacturer support is offered. Oftentimes, people buying this type of equipment have found that it is very difficult to get replacement parts such as print heads. In addition, the original equipment manufacturer most likely will not offer any type of repair service or technical support if an issue arises when using these modified printers. 

Another major drawback to using these reworked printers is that they are not intended for use with DTF inks, especially white ink. Titanium dioxide is a primary component of white ink that is used to produce an opaque bright white ink layer. However, if it is not properly managed, it can result in print quality defects and expensive print head replacements. Most printers that are purposely manufactured to use white ink, such as DTG printers, have ink circulation technology to maintain white ink stability. You should know if the printer you are buying has white ink management and, if offered, the terms and conditions of the warranty and tech support.

The worst thing a garment decorator can do is provide their customers with products that wash out or, in the case of transfers, peel away from the garment after a few wash cycles. Most garment decoration methods have a certified wash test that is conducted by a laboratory and use test methods developed by independent organizations such as the AATCC. 

Most garment decoration machine and ink manufacturers use these tests and provide the results to garment decorators so they can feel confident about the durability of repeated washings and even the resistance to certain chemicals when applied to various fabric types. It is important to determine if the DTF products you are considering using in your business have some type of wash test certification.

One last thing to know before buying a DTF transfer printer is that you might already own one. Many DTG printers can print DTF or DTG transfers. A potential drawback is that they may only print one sheet at a time and may not use roll feed transfer material.

As noted earlier, a benefit is that most factory-built DTG printers have white ink circulation and management, so there is less concern with print head issues. Also, many DTG equipment manufacturers will offer training and technical support directly or through their dealer network.

As with any decoration process, there are advantages and pitfalls with DTF transfers. The total process should be thoroughly investigated and explored. DTF has its place in the toolbox of garment decoration methods and can be a safe and effective way to decorate if businesses take proper precautions and have all the product information needed.