What is DTF?
The design is printed onto a transfer film, prepared with an adhesive and applied to a garment using heat and pressure. It can reproduce full-color artwork without stitching.
L1 Print · Customization Help
DTF Printing
A guide to direct-to-film transfers, artwork preparation and choosing a suitable product.
Which products suit it?
DTF can be an option for cotton, polyester and blends, depending on the specific fabric and transfer system. Coatings, stretch, heat sensitivity and garment construction need review.
Prepare a clean design
- Use the original vector logo when available, or a high-resolution PNG with a transparent background.
- Give the intended design width and placement. Tiny lettering, isolated dots and very thin lines may need adjustment.
- A large solid design has more coverage and may feel different from a small logo. Leave open space where appropriate.
- Check background areas: a white box in the file can become part of the print.
DTF, DTG or screen printing?
| Method | Starting point | Review with our team |
|---|---|---|
| DTF | Full-color transfers and a wider range of compatible fabrics. | Fabric, heat tolerance, fine details and coverage. |
| DTG | Detailed digital artwork printed directly on suitable garments. | Fabric, garment color and artwork quality. |
| Screen printing | Bold spot-color designs and repeat orders. | Color count, quantity and print locations. |
Before we confirm production
- Send the garment or product, quantity, colors and sizes.
- Provide the original artwork, placement and finished dimensions.
- Tell us your required date so we can review the schedule.
- Review the selected decoration method and artwork proof with our team.
We confirm the suitable process, product compatibility, pricing and timing for your order. A DTF guide does not mean every catalog product can use this method.
Care for your decorated garment
Follow the garment label and the care advice supplied with your order. Avoid ironing directly over the decoration.
