How Does DTF Transfer Work? Step-by-Step Breakdown for Beginners
Oct 30, 2025 • DTF Delaware Team
If you’ve heard about DTF transfers but aren’t quite sure how they actually work, you’re not alone. The DTF printing process may sound technical, but it’s surprisingly beginner-friendly once you understand the steps.
Whether you’re a small business owner, Etsy seller, or hobby printer, this guide walks you through how DTF transfer works, what kind of printer you need, and how it compares to other printing methods like sublimation or DTG.
💡 If you’re totally new to DTF, start with our full overview: DTF Printing 101: The Complete Beginner’s Guide.
Table of Contents
- What Is DTF Printing? (Direct-to-Film) Simple Definition for Beginners
- The Full DTF Transfer Workflow (Step-by-Step)
- What Kind of Printer Do You Need for DTF?
- Can a DTF Printer Be Used for Sublimation?
- Key Benefits and Advantages of DTF Transfers
- Frequently Asked Questions About How DTF Transfers Work
- Key Takeaways
- Ready to Start Printing?
What Is DTF Printing? (Direct-to-Film) Simple Definition for Beginners
DTF stands for Direct-to-Film. Instead of printing directly onto fabric (like DTG does), DTF prints your design onto a special PET film. The printed film is then coated with adhesive powder, cured with heat, and finally transferred onto a garment using a heat press.
The magic of DTF lies in its versatility — you can print on cotton, polyester, blends, canvas, nylon, and even wood without needing pretreatment or vinyl cutting.
💡 For a more comprehensive look at the core concept, benefits, and industry role of this technique, check out our guide: What Does DTF Transfer Mean? The Complete Beginner’s Breakdown.
The Full DTF Transfer Workflow (Step-by-Step)
Here’s how the process works from start to finish:
Step 1: Create Your Design
Use design software such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or even Canva to create your artwork. The file should be in CMYK color mode for accurate printing.
Step 2: Print Onto PET Film
A DTF printer prints your design in two layers:
- Color layer (your image)
- White ink layer (on top of color for opacity and adhesion)
This printing order ensures your design stays vibrant and crisp once it’s transferred to fabric.
Step 3: Apply Adhesive Powder
While the ink is still wet, you sprinkle DTF adhesive powder (also called hot-melt powder) onto the printed film. The powder sticks only to the inked areas. Gently shake off the excess powder — it’s reusable.
This powder is what allows your print to bond permanently to the fabric.
Step 4: Cure the Film
Next, heat-cure the powdered film. You can use a curing oven or hover your heat press (without pressure) over the film for around 2 minutes at 320°F (160°C).
The goal: melt the adhesive powder just enough to form a smooth, even coating.
Step 5: Press the Transfer Onto Fabric
Place your garment on the heat press, position the cured film on top, and press at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 seconds with medium pressure.
Then, let it cool for a few seconds before peeling.
- Cold peel films: wait until fully cool
- Hot peel films: peel immediately for a glossy finish
Step 6: Second Press (Recommended)
After peeling the film, do a final press for 5–10 seconds. This locks in the ink, improves durability, and gives the fabric a softer hand feel.
Your DTF transfer is now fully cured, vibrant, and wash-safe!
What Kind of Printer Do You Need for DTF?
To print DTF transfers, you need a DTF printer — not a regular inkjet printer. These printers are designed to handle DTF inks, white ink circulation, and PET film feed systems.
There are two main options:
| Printer Type | Best For | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Converted Inkjet (A4/A3) | Hobbyists, beginners | Epson L1800 DTF conversion |
| Commercial DTF Printer (24”+) | Small businesses & print shops | Prestige A3+, STS VJ-628D |
Can a DTF Printer Be Used for Sublimation?
Not exactly. While both use similar inkjet technology, DTF and sublimation printers are built differently:
| Feature | DTF | Sublimation |
|---|---|---|
| Ink Type | Pigment-based textile ink | Dye-based ink |
| Media | PET film | Sublimation paper |
| Fabrics Supported | Cotton, polyester, blends, more | Polyester only |
| Heat Requirement | 160°C for 15–20s | 190–210°C for 60s |
Trying to use sublimation inks in a DTF printer can clog print heads or damage components, so it’s not recommended.
Key Benefits and Advantages of DTF Transfers
- Works on almost any fabric – cotton, polyester, denim, nylon, and more.
- Vibrant, long-lasting colors – designs stay bright after 50+ washes.
- No pretreatment required – unlike DTG.
- No weeding or cutting – unlike vinyl.
- Quick turnaround – print today, press today.
Because DTF transfers are pre-printed and stored on film, businesses can stock ready-to-press designs or even sell them directly to customers.
💡 Common Mistakes When Doing DTF Transfers
Even though the process is simple, beginners often make these avoidable mistakes:
- Not curing long enough: causes powder not to melt fully.
- Pressing too cold or too hot: can affect adhesion and brightness.
- Skipping the second press: reduces wash durability.
- Storing films improperly: humidity can ruin adhesion.
Frequently Asked Questions About How DTF Transfers Work
Key Takeaways
- DTF stands for Direct-to-Film — your design is printed on film, powdered, cured, and heat-pressed to fabric.
- The process is versatile, vibrant, and cost-effective.
- You’ll need a DTF printer, DTF inks, adhesive powder, and a heat press.
- DTF works on many materials, not just polyester.
Ready to Start Printing?
Whether you’re testing your first design or scaling up your apparel shop, DTF printing makes it easy to create professional-quality results from home.
👉 Explore our collection of Ready-to-Press DTF Transfers or Custom DTF Gang Sheets to get started today.
