What is DTF and Why is it BETTER than DTG?

If you have ever wondered what Direct To Film (DTF) is and why it's better than Direct To Garment (DTG), then you're in luck.  I've got all the details for you here.

MATERIALS

DTG works best on 100% cotton, however DTF works on a large variety of garments, including cotton, polyester, blends, nylon and both white and dark garments. 

NO PRETREATMENT FOR DTF

If you have had DTG done in the past, you are probably familiar with the pre-treatment  that arrives on your apparel.  It can feel a little stiff and not very customer presentable.

LESS WHITE INK FOR DTF

DTF uses about 60% white versus over 200% white for DTG.  White ink is always more expensive which drives up the cost for DTG.

DURABILITY OF DTF

DTG Prints have an extremely soft hand print/feel because the ink is applied directly to the garment.  While DTF prints don't have the exact same soft hand feel that DTG does, DTF is much more durable.  DTF prints wash well, and are extremely stretchable, meaning they don't crack or peel, making them great for heavy-use items.

EASY APPLICATION

Printing onto a transfer means you can place your designs on hard to reach or awkward surfaces.  Basically, if the area can be heated, we can apply a DTF design to it! 

LITTLE WASTE

Since DTG prints directly on the apparel, one mistake with the printer and not only have you wasted the print itself, you've also wasted the entire garment.  With DTF, the mistakes when applying to the garments are very rare.  This saves the decorator money, hence saves you money!

FASTER PRODUCTION PROCESS

While it might not be feasible to print a stockpile of your most popular designs onto every size or color garment, with DTF, you can print your popular designs in advance and store them and then order the garments as needed.  This is a huge advantage over DTG.