With ongoing new developments and breakthroughs, the field of printing technology has advanced significantly in recent years. One such technology is the Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing technique. It is becoming more and more popular among both people and corporations. DTF printing involves printing the pattern on a film. It is then used to transfer it to a substrate or garment using a heat press. In this blog post, we will focus on DTF pet film, which is a type of film businesses use in the DTF printing process. We will go through what it is, its traits, benefits, uses, and how to choose the right one. Let’s explore what is DTF pet film and see what it can accomplish for your printing requirements.
What are DTF Film Sheets?
DTF Pet film is a type of film used in the Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing process. It is a polyester-based film that is specifically designed to be used with DTF printers and inks.
The film has a unique adhesive layer on it that enables it to stick to a variety of substrates, including metals, ceramics, and fabrics. To meet a range of printing requirements, we have DTF pet film in various widths and thicknesses.
First, we print the design onto DTF pet film using a DTF printer and DTF inks. Using a heat press, the design is then transferred from the film onto the desired substrate after being printed onto the film.
The ink sublimates, or transforms into a gas, and forms a permanent connection with the substrate as a result of the heat and pressure used during the transfer process. The ultimate result is a print that is brilliant, strong, and resistant to peeling, cracking, and fading.
DTF pet film is a great substitute for screen printing and direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, among other printing techniques. It is a preferred option for companies and people in the printing sector since it provides more adaptability, reduced costs, and higher-quality prints.
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
EDITOR’S CHOICE  | CenDale DTF Transfer Film – A4(8.3″ x 11.7″) 30 Sheets
| 9.9 | Check on AmazonGet A3 Size 30 Pcs |
BEST ALTERNATIVE  | Yamation DTF Transfer Film Glossy: 50 Sheets
| 9.8 | Check on Amazon |
HIGHLY VALUED  | Welacer DTF Transfer Film Paper – A4(8.4″ x 11.7″) 25 Sheets
| 9.6 | Check on AmazonGet A3+ Size 100 Pcs |
11×17″ SIZE  | CenDale 11″x17″ DTF Film –30 Sheets
| 9.9 | Check on AmazonGet 11″x17″ Size 60 Pcs |
PREMIUM 13×19″ SIZE  | Welacer Premium 13″x19″ DTF Film A3+ 100 Sheets
| 9.6 | Check on Amazon |
PREMIUM 13×19″ A3+ SIZE  | CenDale Premium DTF Film 13″x19″ – A3+ 50 Sheets
| 9.9 | Check on AmazonGet 13″x19″ 120 Pcs |
ON BUDGET  | KASYU DTF Transfer Film, 50 Sheets 8.5″*11″
| 9.5 | Check on AmazonGet A3 Size 50 Sheets |
11×17″ SIZE  | NGOODIEZ A3 DTF Film 11.7″ x 16.5″, 25 Sheets
| 9.5 | Check on Amazon |
AMAZON’S CHOICE  | JOYCUT A3 DTF Films for Inkjet Printers (11.7″×16.5″), 100 Sheets
| 8.2 | Check on AmazonGet A4 Size 30 Sheets |
DTF Film features
DTF PET Film is a premium transfer film with a number of characteristics. These properties make it a fantastic option for a variety of applications. These qualities consist of:
- High ink absorption: The DTF PET film has good ink absorption characteristics. It means that the ink sticks to the film extremely well and produces a print that is of a high calibre.
- Easy to clean powder: The powder used with DTF PET film is easy to clean and remove from the transfer, which means that the finished product is clean and ready to use.
- Small thickness tolerance: The thickness of the DTF PET film is very consistent. This means that the transfer is uniform and of high quality.
- Good matte: The DTF PET film’s matte texture offers the transfer a polished appearance and feel.
- Low heat shrinkage: Because the DTF PET film has a low heat shrinkage rate, the transfer won’t warp or get distorted while being transferred.
- Powerful release: The transfer sticks well to the substrate and is not removed easily. This is because of the DTF PET film’s strong release rate.
- Coated with matte release agent: The DTF PET film is coated with a matte release agent. It gives it a smooth surface without any wrinkles or imperfections.
- Printer compatibility: DTF PET film is compatible with most printers and is simple to use with common printers. We can place them in ordinary printer trays.
- High temperature resistance: The DTF PET film has excellent heat resistance, which makes it perfect for use in a variety of applications.
- Wide applications: DTF PET film has a wide range of uses, including the transfer of patterns onto a number of surfaces, such as T-shirts, bags, shoes, wood panels, and more.
Can you reuse DTF film?
DTF pet film is not intended to be reusable. The film cannot be used for another print after the design was printed on it and transferred to the substrate using a heat press. The adhesive layer bonds with the substrate during the transfer process, making it hard to remove the film intact.
Reusing DTF pet film can result in blurry or faded prints because the adhesive layer may not adhere properly to the substrate. Reusing the film may potentially harm the printer head and reduce the printer’s overall performance.
It is advised to use a fresh sheet of DTF pet film for each print in order to achieve the highest possible print quality. This ensures that the adhesive layer is new and capable of properly adhering to the substrate, producing a print that is high-quality, vivid, and durable.
Can you sublimate on DTF film?
No, DTF pet film cannot be sublimated. We use different printers, inks, and substrates for DTF and sublimation printing. Using sublimation inks, a design is printed onto specialised sublimation paper, and then the design is transferred to a substrate using a heat press. When heated, sublimation inks are designed to melt into the substrate, leaving a bright and long-lasting print.
DTF printing, on the other hand, involves printing the pattern using DTF inks directly onto the DTF pet film. Then, using a heat press to transfer it to the substrate. DTF inks are created particularly to function with the DTF pet film and adhesive layer, making them distinct from sublimation inks.
Since sublimation inks don’t bond with DTF pet film’s adhesive layer, sublimating on it can damage the printer or produce poor prints. To get the best possible outcomes, it’s crucial to employ the right printing technique and ink for the target substrate.
Which side of DTF film do you print on?
It could be challenging to decide which side to print on if you’re using double-sided or double-matte DTF pet film. There are a few fast and simple techniques to determine the right side, however.
One approach is to expose the film to a strong light. The film will have a somewhat different reflective quality on either side. As this is probably the film’s uncoated side, avoid printing on the side that is more reflective.
Another technique is to wet your finger and paint the film with it. The film will often retain water on one side while attempting to repel it on the other. Since this is probably the film’s uncoated side, avoid printing on the side that is attempting to repel water.
You can print a little design in the corner of the film to test which side works best for you if you’re still unable to notice the difference. You can always remove that portion and reuse the remaining film.
These techniques will help you quickly and simply decide which side of your DTF pet film to print on and make sure your prints will be of a good quality.
What is DTF film made of?
DTF (Direct-to-Film) pet film is a type of heat transfer film that is used in DTF printing. A layer of PET (polyethylene terephthalate) plastic, a material that is often utilised in the manufacture of several kinds of films and sheets, is used to create the film.
On one side, the DTF pet film has a coating of heat-sensitive adhesive. This coating enables it to stick to the substrate during the transfer process. Usually, a release coating is applied to the film’s reverse side so that it may be easily peeled off when the transfer is finished.
DTF pet film is available in a range of thicknesses, usually between 75 and 125 microns. The final print’s quality and durability as well as the transfer process as a whole is impacted by the film’s thickness.
Some DTF films might contain other coatings or additives to improve the printing or transfer properties of the film in addition to the PET plastic and adhesive layer. These could include coatings that enhance ink absorption, stop curling, or make the film more stretchable.
Advantage and Drawbacks of PET film transfer
| Advantages | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Vibrant colors and high-quality prints. | Can be more difficult to transfer than paper. |
| Durable and long-lasting transfers. | Limited to certain types of substrates. |
| Can be used on a variety of fabrics. | May require special ink and printer. |
| Easy to handle and cut. | Costlier than other transfer methods. |
| Can be used for small and large runs. | Requires a heat press or similar equipment. |
| Can achieve fine details and high resolutions. |
How to use DTF Transfer Film Sheets?
Using a DTF printer, print the design image onto the DTF PET film. DTF ink has to be put in the printer.
- After printing, let the picture alone for a few seconds to let the ink dry.
- Onto the printed pattern, sprinkle the powder. Make sure it covers the whole print in an equal layer on both sides.
- Put the substrate (fabric or hard surface) on which the PET film DTF with the powder is to be applied. Use a press machine, oven, or flashcuring apparatus to apply heat and pressure.
- Remove any powder that clings outside the picture area once the powder has melted and taken on an orange peel-like appearance.
- Pre-heat the material (such a shirt) for 10 seconds to a temperature of 160 degrees Celsius. Then let it to cool.
- Place the PET film DTF, powder side down, on the substrate when it has cooled.
- Use a press machine, oven, or flashcuring apparatus to apply heat and pressure once again for 15 seconds.
- Peel off the PET film DTF to expose the transferred design when the transfer is finished.
How to print on DTF film with Epson printer- Video
Conclusion
In summary, PET DTF (Direct-to-Film) film is a flexible and dependable material that is often used in heat transfer printing. It is a fantastic option for printing on a range of materials since it provides brilliant colors, high-quality prints, durability, and simplicity of use.
However, DTF PET film transfer requires special ink and printer, a heat press or similar equipment, and a higher cost than other transfer methods. However, the benefits of DTF PET film transfer make it a well-liked and efficient option for small and large runs of personalized designs, making it a great choice for many applications.
FAQs
Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing uses DTF PET film, which is a heat transfer medium. With the use of DTF inks, designs are printed on a thin, flexible film, which is then heated to transfer the patterns to substrates.
DTF PET film can be used on a variety of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, and blends. It can also be used on hard surfaces such as wood, metal, and ceramic, with the use of a special primer.
You can print designs onto DTF PET film using a printer that is compatible with DTF inks. The design is printed in reverse onto the film, and then transferred onto the substrate using a heat press.
DTF PET film can be used to print more copies of the same design, but it cannot be used to produce new designs.
DTF PET film transfer can be more difficult to transfer than paper, and may require special ink and printer. It also requires a heat press or similar equipment, and can be costlier than other transfer methods.
You may use a strong light to illuminate the film to observe which side is somewhat more reflective, or you can paint the film with your finger after dipping it in water to see which side makes the water run off. On the side that deflects water, do not print.
No, DTF PET film transfer and sublimation printing use different techniques and materials.
Ashley Wang is a skilled sales manager with knowledge in DTF printing. She presently works for ShenLan Digital, a reputable DTF printer maker. Ashley is the best person to offer advice on selecting the most suitable DTF printer because she has tested a lot of them. She launched DTFPrinterSchool to educate individuals and organizations about DTF printing technology, providing her expertise and observations on the most recent advancements in the sector. Ashley is an invaluable resource for businesses and individuals wishing to invest in DTF printing technology because of her expertise and experience in the industry.