Direct to Film

Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing is an innovative digital printing technology that creates vibrant, durable designs by printing onto special transfer films with adhesive backing, then heat-pressing them onto fabrics for versatile, sharp full-color results. This cutting-edge process combines the detail capabilities of digital printing with the durability and versatility of heat transfer applications, making it ideal for a wide range of materials and garment types.

At Fernando's, our advanced DTF equipment produces stunning, detailed prints that adhere beautifully to various fabric types while maintaining excellent wash durability and color vibrancy. DTF printing offers exceptional flexibility for any quantity—from single pieces to large production runs—and is particularly cost-effective for one-off custom pieces.

 

DTF Technology & Process

Specialized DTF Films

High-quality transfer films designed specifically for DTF printing that ensure optimal ink adhesion and transfer properties. These films provide the foundation for crisp, detailed prints that transfer cleanly onto garments with professional results.

Adhesive Powder Application

Specialized adhesive powder that bonds the printed design to the transfer film, creating a strong connection between ink and fabric during the heat press process. This crucial step ensures long-lasting adhesion and wash durability.

Water-Based Pigment Inks

Premium water-based inks formulated specifically for DTF printing that provide excellent color saturation, detail reproduction, and adhesion properties. These inks work seamlessly with the DTF process to create vibrant, long-lasting prints.

Metallic and Reflective Options

Specialty metallic and reflective DTF films that add luxury appeal and high-visibility effects to your designs. Metallic options create stunning shimmer and premium appearance, while reflective films provide safety and visibility features perfect for workwear, athletic apparel, and high-impact designs.

Heat Press Transfer

Precision heat and pressure application that activates the adhesive and permanently bonds the design to the fabric. Our controlled heat press process ensures consistent results and optimal adhesion across all garment types.

 

DTF Printing Capabilities

Any Quantity Production

From single custom pieces to large production runs, DTF accommodates any order size without setup costs or minimum requirements. This flexibility makes DTF the most affordable option for one-off pieces and small custom orders while remaining cost-effective for larger quantities.

Versatile Material Compatibility

Exceptional adhesion to a wide variety of fabrics including cotton, polyester, blends, performance fabrics, and specialty materials. DTF works effectively on materials that may be challenging for other printing methods.

Sharp Full-Color Results

Outstanding detail reproduction with vibrant colors and crisp edges. DTF excels at complex designs, gradients, and photographic images while maintaining sharp definition and color accuracy across the entire design.

Specialty Effects

Create eye-catching designs with metallic shimmer for luxury appeal or reflective properties for safety and visibility applications. These specialty options add unique visual impact and functional benefits to your custom apparel.

Complex Design Handling

Excellent reproduction of intricate artwork, detailed logos, and multi-color designs without color limitations or additional setup fees. DTF handles complexity with ease while maintaining production efficiency.

 

Specialty DTF Applications

One-Off Custom Pieces

The most affordable solution for single custom items, personalized gifts, and unique designs. DTF eliminates setup costs, making it perfect for individual pieces that would be cost-prohibitive with other printing methods.

Safety and High-Visibility Apparel

Reflective DTF options perfect for safety workwear, emergency services uniforms, athletic gear, and any application requiring enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.

Luxury and Fashion Items

Metallic DTF films create premium, high-end appearance perfect for fashion brands, special events, awards, and luxury merchandise that demands attention and sophistication.

Performance and Athletic Wear

Superior adhesion to moisture-wicking fabrics, polyester blends, and technical materials commonly used in athletic and performance apparel. DTF maintains flexibility and breathability while providing durable decoration.

Promotional and Corporate Merchandise

Versatile printing solution for branded merchandise, corporate apparel, and promotional items. DTF accommodates various fabric types and design complexities while maintaining cost-effectiveness for any order size.

 

Technical Advantages

No Setup Costs

Digital process eliminates traditional setup fees, making DTF the most economical choice for small quantities and one-off pieces while remaining competitive for larger orders.

No Fabric Pretreatment

Unlike some digital printing methods, DTF requires no fabric pretreatment, simplifying the production process and reducing processing time while maintaining excellent print quality.

Excellent Wash Durability

Superior adhesion and ink penetration result in prints that maintain their appearance, color, and integrity through multiple wash cycles. DTF prints are engineered for long-term durability.

Consistent Color Reproduction

Advanced color management ensures consistent, accurate color reproduction from design file to finished product. Brand colors are reproduced with precision and reliability.

 

Ideal Applications

Single Pieces & Small Orders

  • Custom one-off designs and personalized items
  • Prototype and sample development
  • Individual gifts and special occasions
  • Test designs before larger production
  • Unique and limited edition pieces

Specialty Effects

  • Luxury apparel with metallic accents
  • Safety workwear with reflective elements
  • Athletic gear with high-visibility features
  • Fashion items requiring premium appearance
  • Awards and recognition merchandise

Any Volume Production

  • Small batches (1-25 pieces)
  • Medium runs (25-500 pieces)
  • Large production orders (500+ pieces)
  • Corporate uniform orders
  • Event and promotional campaigns

Complex Designs

  • Multi-color logos and artwork
  • Photographic reproductions
  • Detailed illustrations and graphics
  • Gradient and shaded designs
  • Fine text and intricate details

 

Why Choose Our DTF Printing?

  • Any Quantity Welcome - From 1 piece to 1000+, no minimums required
  • Most Affordable for One-Offs - No setup costs make single pieces economical
  • Specialty Effects Available - Metallic and reflective options for unique impact
  • Versatile Material Compatibility - Works on various fabric types and blends
  • Sharp Detail Reproduction - Crisp, vibrant prints with excellent clarity
  • Superior Wash Durability - Long-lasting prints that maintain quality
  • Quick Turnaround - Streamlined production for faster delivery
  • Direct Service - Personal attention from owners who oversee every project

 

DTF vs. Other Printing Methods

DTF excels when you need:

  • Single pieces or small quantities
  • Most affordable option for one-offs
  • Metallic or reflective effects
  • Versatile fabric compatibility
  • Sharp, detailed full-color prints
  • No setup costs or minimums
  • Superior adhesion to synthetic materials

 

Our Promise

Whether you need custom apparel with metallic shimmer, reflective safety apparel, or large production runs with specialty effects, our DTF technology delivers exceptional results with unmatched versatility and affordability. From one-off gifts to corporate campaigns, DTF brings your vision to life on any material at any quantity.

Ready to experience the versatility and specialty effects of DTF printing? Contact us today to discuss your project and discover why our DTF technology is the perfect solution for any quantity, especially the most cost-effective choice for one-off custom pieces with stunning metallic and reflective options.

At Fernando's Screen Printing, we don't just transfer designs—we create versatile, durable prints with specialty effects that bring your vision to wearable reality, one piece or one thousand.