A cold peel transfers release matte film for use in the process of Film to Fabric (FTF) inkjet digital printing using aqueous pigmented inks.
Coated PET Film are available in sheets and rolls. This single-sided coated film provides better printer roller traction with minimal static allowing for a great printed image without background artifacts.
Learn more about Kodak's leap into Direct to Film (or FTF), and their entire lineup of products here!
Specifications:
- Heat stabilized
- Little to no shrinkage
- Excellent printing outcome
- High matte quality
- Easy and smooth to peel
- Good scratch resistance
- Recommended cure times: 15 seconds at 158°C
- Treated to reduce the effects of static
What is DTF Printing?
Direct to Film printing is a method that rivals Direct to Garment printing (DTG) and allows users to print their logos and/or artwork onto a special type of coated PET film. This film is then used to transfer the printed image onto textiles using a lightweight powder adhesive that can be applied manually or by using an automatic powder shaker to distribute the adhesive evenly across the artwork and film, and with this added step, the transfer process is made possible. All American Print Supply has everything you need to get started.
What sets DTF apart from other transfers?
- No cutting and weeding required
- Crisp, defined edges and images from start to finish
- No advanced technical printing knowledge required
- A great option for small orders
- Low cost on waste
- Low investment – high reward
- Works on most fabrics including non-treated cotton, silk, polyester, denim, nylon, leather, 50/50 blends, & more
Printing Application Guide:
Step 1 – Printing on Film
- Using a DTF inkjet printer, insert Kodak DTF/FTF transfer film in printer paper tray or on paper roll holder
- For Dark shirts
- print color image on the film
- print white image layer on top of the color image
- For Light shirts:
- print color image on the film
Step 2 – Powder Application
- Apply the Kodak DTF/FTF hot-melt powder uniformly on top of the wet print
- White powder may be used for all applications or black powder may be chosen for dark work
- Powder may be sprinkled manually onto the print in a tray and agitated to cover print completely
- NOTE: an automated commercial shaker may also be used for powder application
- Ensure that the powder is evenly spread over the printed surface of the film
- Carefully remove excess powder
Step 3 – Melting the Powder
- Place the film with the printed image and the applied powder in a Curing Oven and heat for 2-3 minutes at 100-120oC
OR
- Place the film inside a heat press, hovering and not applying pressure. A 4 to 7 mm gap between the film and the heat press top plate is recommended, for 3-5 minutes at 140-150oC. Do not completely close the press.
Step 4 – Pre-pressing
- Pre-press the fabric prior to transfer of the image by the film for 2 to 5 seconds
- Pre-pressing will flatten the fabric and remove excess humidity contained in the fabric
- Pre-pressing helps in successful transfer of the image from the film onto the fabric
Step 5 – Transfer
- The film with the image and the melted powder is placed on the pre-pressed fabric in the heat press
- Press/Cure the image to the fabric for 10-20 seconds at 160-180oC
Step 6 – Cold Peel
- Allow the film/image attached to the fabric to cool completely
- Separate the film from the fabric, leaving the desired image on the fabric
Step 7 – Post-pressing
- A post-press process is highly recommended for best results and high-performance parameters such as wash and rub fastness
- Re-press the image on the fabric for 10-20 seconds at 160-180oC
