10 Benefits of Direct-to-Film Printing You Need to Know

Direct to Film printing is the future of customized printing. Due to several benefits like cost-saving and versatility, DTF printing is getting more popular among art enthusiasts. But these are not the only benefits of this modern artwork. So, if you plan on getting a customized T-shirt or other items, this blog is for you.

This blog will cover 10 Benefits of Direct-to-Film Printing You Need to Know. Let's start with the definition.

What is Direct-to-Film (DTF) Printing?

Direct-to-Film printing is a modern printing process that is used to digitally print designs onto a printing screen without the use of traditional printing films. It involves printing a design onto a PET film and then heat-pressing it onto a garment. 

DTF printing holds significant importance because of its revolution in the printing industry. It has made printing very fast and efficient and has become more cost-effective. You can also achieve higher color accuracy and durability; what more can someone ask?

Now that we know what DTF printing is, you must be wondering what benefits we get by choosing DTF printing over widely available options like Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing, Vinyl printing, etc. 

👉You may also be interested in Direct-to-Film Printing: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

10 Benefits of Direct-to-Film Printing

There are several reasons why people are opting for DTF printing rather than other forms of printing. Let's learn about them in more detail.

1. High-Quality Result

Direct-to-Film printing produces a very high-quality output because of the various steps involved in its printing. The process starts by printing the design into a PET film using water-based ink, transferring it into a powder adhesive, and finally printing it into the fabric. 

DTF printing uses water-based ink, leaving a sharp and accurate print on the garment. If you are wondering about color accuracy, don't worry because the color printed in the garment comes out very precise, as the DTF printer uses the CMYK color gamut, quickly creating various colors.

2. Cost efficiency 

DTF printing is very cost-efficient compared to more traditional screen printing. The cost is basically reduced by eliminating intermediary steps and materials. For example, creating a design in screen printing requires screens, whereas, in DTF, you don't need a screen to make customized designs.

You create a design, start printing it in the PET film, and then heat press it, and you are done.

DTF printing can also help you save time, labor, and resources. DTF is much faster than traditional printing, like screen printing, heat printing, etc. The cost saving in materials, human labor, and other materials result in more affordable customizations.

3. Faster Turnaround Time 

DTF offers you a rapid production process because of the streamlined process. It has eliminated a lot of procedures, such as Film Positive Creation, Exposing Screens to Film, Film Positive Alignment, etc., from traditional printing techniques. 

It basically integrates digital design and printing process, so the time taken in the traditional methods for separating film positives for each color layer is significantly reduced. This means that businesses can print more designs in less time.

DTF will also give you an upper hand when there is a burden of tight deadlines and urgent orders.

4. Environmentally Friendly

If you want the best drip but are environment-conscious, then DTF printing is for you. DTF printing is very environmentally sustainable and friendly. It produces significantly less waste compared to other printing techniques. 

This printing method minimizes using chemicals, inks, materials for setting substrate, and other items. It also consumes less energy because it directly projects UV light into the PET film, which is thinner, so it requires less UV light to penetrate.

5. Versatility  

You can do DTF printing in various fabric materials like cotton, polyester, plastic, nylon, etc., so because of that, you can DTF print in a wide range of garments like T-shirts, hats, bags, etc. 

You can easily do DTF printing on fabrics with uneven surfaces; it is no problem for DTF printers to print in garments with curves. This makes using DTF printing an ideal choice compared to other options. 

Thanks to its versatility, it is often used in the fashion industry, making custom logos, letters, and designs. Moreover, it is very relevant in the home decor industry. DTF printing offers many opportunities for interior designers to print custom designs on the curtains, cushions, etc., which enhances the home's overall aesthetics.

6. Accurate Color Reproduction

DTF printing ensures that color reproduction is accurate. Accurate color matching starts from the designing process. Many design software will help you with the precise color selection according to your need. 

After that, the design is printed into a PET film using a modern inkjet printer capable of producing high-quality and accurate colors.

7. Durability and Longevity 

DTF prints are well known for their durability, resistance to scratch, fade, wear, etc. It is because of their ink quality, which is specially designed to endure fade, model, and tear. And the additional layer of protective coating coated over the print.

The print is suitable for any weather condition, whether rainy, sunny, or windy. It can catch up pretty, retaining its vibrant colors well even when exposed to harsh conditions. 

The lifespan of the prints usually depends on the quality of the ink used. Likewise, environmental exposure also plays a role. Under optimal conditions, such as indoor use, where it is less exposed to UV lights and sunlight, it may last several years.

8. Customization and Personalization

The one feature that stands out the most in DTF printing is customization and personalization because it allows an individual to incorporate their unique idea into the print. You can customize your designs according to your will. DTF printing also qualifies you for variable data printing.

DTF printing has a very high potential for creating unique and tailored products. You get infinite design options according to your capabilities. Even personalized elements can be integrated into the print. 

9. Reduced Setup Time 

DTF printing has reduced setup time because it does not require various steps in traditional printing. It has eliminated different steps like screen exposure, ink mixing, etc. Thus it has a streamlined and straightforward process of printing.

Reduced setup time has many advantages for small and large print runs, regardless of size. It boosts production and productivity. 

10. Future Potential and Innovation 

DTF printing technology has constantly been developing at an exponential rate. There are ongoing advancements in the DTF printing technology, like enhancing the color accuracy even more. Printing the designs faster and contributing to the sustainable development goals. 

DTF printing has emerged as the successor to traditional printing techniques, introducing many innovations within the printing industry. Because of the streamlined process of DTF printing, printing has become very fast and efficient. Also enabled mass customization, enhanced color accuracy, etc. 

The future of DTF printing seems promising; we can anticipate various developments like advanced color gamut, integration of 3d printing, using more sustainable materials, integration of AI, etc.

👉You can see our other blog for Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Direct-to-Film Printing

Conclusion 

In conclusion, DTF is a game changer for the printing industry as it is efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable. 

The streamlined process of DTF printing has ensured the print is a high-quality output, cost-effective, with faster turnaround time, environmentally friendly, durable, and versatile, given the ability to produce accurate color, customization, and reduced setup time. Consider DTF printing for your needs and join the revolution in modern printing.

Direct-to-Film Printing at trydtf

At trydtf, we transfer your plain and straightforward substrate and material to a fully customized piece of art. 

Bring your t-shirts, mugs, caps, and more; we guarantee to return these items with versatile and high-quality direct-to-film transfers at a competitive price.

So, if you want to start your journey with DTF printing but are still considering if it is worth it, Trydtf has brought a solution for you. We offer free samples to get you started and make the process more convenient!

Please visit our site or contact us at trydtf to learn more about us and start your journey in the DTF printing industry.