Serious DTF Starts with the Right System

Technology Overview

What is Direct To Film (DTF)?

• With traditional DTG (Direct To Garment) clothing is placed into a printer which applies the image directly. Garments are then put into a heat-press to cure the ink. Dark fabrics need to be pre-treated so they will accept a white under layer before printing the image. The process is reasonably straightforward and works well with material that contains 50% or more natural content.
• With DTF (Direct To Film) the image is printed onto film. Powder is applied and the film heated in an oven. Completed artwork is cut to size and placed in a heat-press with the garment, the image is transferred and the film removed. It involves more consumables but requires less ink. It involves more steps but has a more efficient and flexible workflow; images can be produced in advance and applied to garments when selected by the customer. It has the added advantage of working with material contains both natural and man-made fibres.

How does DTF (Direct To Film) differ from DTF (Direct To Fabric)?

• Direct to Fabric is a different process that is more industrial. It requires large and often expensive equipment, involves special ink that has to be handled carefully and fabric that is pre and/or post-treated.

How does DTF differ from UV-DTF?

• The two processes operate similarly but have different applications.
• Direct To Film is used extensively for garment customisation while having some applications in merchandise manufacture.
• UV-DTF is used predominantly for merchandise and signage applications. It uses a type of ink that is harder and more durable but not as tough and flexible. Machines Plus also sells UV printers that accept film and dedicated UV-DTF models.

What is the difference between Hybrid and dedicated DTF printers?

• Hybrid printers will operate in both DTG and DTF modes. They are flexible, compact and inexpensive but require operators to load and unload individual cut sheets. They are a great solution for people with limited space and/or have a need to periodically produce in DTG.
• Dedicated DTF printers tend to be faster and more efficient. They typically operate with roll-based media that is cheaper and will produce output continuously with less labour. They are a better solution for those who want to minimise production costs and only operate in DTF.

What are the different types of DTF machines?

• There are desktop and floor-standing models. Floor-standing machines tend to be faster but require more space and power.
• Some models are designed to operate stand-alone while others are best operated with an in-line powder shaker/oven. The former tend to be cheaper but require manual loading/unloading, separate powdering and oven treatment. They are good for those with short and/or intermittent production needs. The latter are more efficient but require more space and power. They suit people seeking long continuous production with the lowest possible production cost.
• Warranty and extended service are a significant issues for DTG and DTF machines due to their use of White ink. Cheaper models tend to have  shorter cover that may come back to bite with expensive repair bills.
• Bigger printheads and wider print widths allows for faster speed. Actual production rates will depend on quality requirements and a range of factors including image processing and nozzle management. Wider films tend to be cheaper however they may require more cutting.
• Bigger ink supplies generally result in lower print costs, less labour and higher productivity. Hot swap functionality means that ink packs can be exchanged while production continues. IMPORTANT: Inks have a limited lifespan so be careful to match your printer to your production need!

Machines Plus DTF Packages

Machines Plus doesn't supply equipment, we supply business solutions.

We are colour and fabric specialists who understand manufacturing and business.
We work with leading manufacturers including Epson, Roland, Mimaki, Vibrand, Gildan, and AS Colour.
We review and test to understand performance, usability, production suitability, reliability and durability.

We spend time understanding the technology, its advantages, disadvantages and application.

We work directly with customers to understand individual operational and production needs.

To help with this product set we present a simplified set of 'Business in a Box' solution packages.

When you are ready to proceed, give us a call so we can confirm suitability and configuration.