DTF (Direct-to-Film) Printing Buyer's Guide

Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing allows print shops and creative to print full-color images, onto a variety of fabrics and garments. Unlike DTG that prints directly to your substrate, DTF prints your image to a transfer film first. Once you have your transfer film printed, you add a special powder that gets heated up/baked to create a glue like substance, then that transfer film is pressed to your fabric for your final transfer. DTF is a great choice for prints that require a bit more durability, or when you want to print on synthetic and/or performance fabrics. The payoff is you have flexibility to meet whatever request your customers have!

Who Should Read This Guide?

This guide is ideal for:

• Garment decorators who want detailed, photo-quality prints on a variety of fabrics
• Print shops offering short-run (10-100) or on-demand t-shirt printing
• Entrepreneurs looking to start a custom apparel brand
• Businesses looking to complement their current heat transfer or sublimation technologies
• Creators needing quick-turn, durable, full-color prints

What do you need for DTF printing?

The process of direct to film printing will require a special direct-to-film printer, direct to film powder, a heat press or shaker system, and your substrate. It’s also important to note, DTF printers should be ran consistently to prevent clogging on the print head and lines.

Essential DTF Accessories & Supplies

For optimal print quality and performance, pair your DTF printer with these must-have accessories:

DTF Pre-Treatment Equipment & Supplies

• Personal Protective Equipment - The DTF powder can be harmful if inhaled when heated or touched. Wear gloves and use a fume extractor when curing the powder.
• DTF Powder - This powder acts as an adhesion/glue when heated up to your transfer.
• DTF Film - Print your initial print onto this film
• Teflon Sheet / T. Seal - You’ll use this finishing sheet to seal your final press
• Shaker, Oven, or Heat Press to Cure the Powder
• Fume Extractor

Roland BY-20 Direct-to-Film 20” Desktop Printer – VersaSTUDIO

The Roland VersaSTUDIO BY-20 is a professional-grade desktop DTF printer from the trusted VersaSTUDIO line. With this printer, you can print up to 20" wide and scale production. It also offers integrated automated maintenance and user-friendly software, making it a strong choice for growing businesses.

Benefits:

• 20” wide-format printing for larger transfers and faster batching
• Industry-trusted Roland build and software (VersaWorks)
• Compact desktop footprint
• High-resolution print output
• Compatible with a wide range of fabrics

Uninet® 100 DTF™ (Direct to Film) 13" Printer - Training, Starter Bundle & Supplies

The UNINET® DTF™ 100 is ideal for small runs! Similar to the UniNet DTF 1000 with a slightly slower print speed, it’s perfect for DTF prints. For easy start-up, there’s a comprehensive starter bundle, including inks, powder, film, and heat press supplies

Benefits:

• Complete starter bundle with training included
• 13” roll or sheet-fed printing for flexibility
• Great for cotton, polyester, blends, and more
• Reliable dual printhead technology
• Prints 8-10 minutes per A3 sheet

UNINET® DTF™ 1000 (Direct to Film) 13” Printer - Training, Starter Bundle & Supplies

The UNINET® DTF™ 1000 is perfect for small to mid-sized business. It requires only a small amount of space in your shop and prints on film sheets or rolls up to 13 inches wide. For easy start-up, there’s a comprehensive starter bundle, including inks, powder, film, and heat press supplies. The included training and support make it beginner-friendly and ideal for entrepreneurs entering the custom garment industry.

Benefits:

Epson SureColor F1070 DTG/DTF Hybrid Printer

The Epson SureColor F1070 offers the best of both worlds with its hybrid DTG and DTF capabilities, allowing users to switch between direct-to-garment and direct-to-film printing. It’s perfect for small to medium-sized businesses that want versatility without investing in separate machines. The F1070 delivers Epson’s signature image quality and reliability, along with ease of use and automatic maintenance features.

Benefits:

• Hybrid capability (DTG and DTF in one)
• Epson PrecisionCore® printhead for vibrant, detailed prints
• Seamless switch between DTF and DTG workflows
• Automatic maintenance reduces downtime
• Ideal for short runs and high-detail designs

More DTF Resources:

• Direct to Film / DTF Videos
• Direct-to-Film (DTF) Overview
• Roland BY-20 DTF Printer: Software Demo and Live Printing Tutorial
• Vastex PTF 100 DTF Powder Application System | Efficient & Consistent DTF Printing
• Direct to Film (DTF) Printing: A Comprehensive Guide to Custom Printing
• DTF Transfer Film
• DTF Printing Supplies

DTG vs. DTF vs. Toner Transfers

Need help choosing between methods? Here’s a quick comparison:

Check out our Resources