DTF: The Process
Step 1
Design Development:
The process begins with collaboration between our talented graphic designers and you to create a custom design. Using sophisticated design software, we ensure that your artwork is formatted and optimised for DTF printing, focusing on clarity, colour accuracy, and visual impact.:
Step 2
Film Printing:
Once the design is approved, we print it onto a special transfer film on Epson printers, using Epson OEKO-TEX certified inks — the only printers and inks we use. This technique enables us to achieve stunning detail and colour vibrancy, making it ideal for intricate graphics and diverse colour palettes.
Step 3
Powder Adhesive Application:
After printing, a layer of adhesive powder is evenly applied to the wet ink on the transfer film. The powder helps bind the design to the fabric and is a crucial step in ensuring durability and longevity.
Step 4
Heat Curing:
The transfer film, now coated with adhesive, is passed through a heat curing process. This step melts the adhesive, creating a bond between the ink and powder, setting the stage for a strong transfer.
Step 5
Heat Transfer to Fabric:
The cured transfer is then carefully aligned with the fabric of the t-shirt and pressed using a heat press. The combination of heat and pressure ensures the design adheres firmly to a variety of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, and blends.
Step 6
Quality Control
Finally, our QC team checks over every aspect of the product to ensure it up to our high standards. They then prep and pack the product for final delivery.
About DTF
DTF prints your design onto film, then presses it into the garment. It holds fine detail and photographic colour, and unlike sublimation it works on cotton as well as polyester and blends. You can also buy the transfers on their own and press them yourself.
Want to see how DTF looks on a finished garment? Message us and we will send photographs of recent work — it is easier to judge from a real shirt than from a description.
Get Quoted!
Quantities, garment type and a rough idea is enough to start. We'll come back with pricing and a mockup — no charge for either.