DTF Full Range by InkTec

(Scroll down to see the full product range.)

WHAT IS DTF?

Direct-to-film (DTF) is a process that transfers prints onto fabric or other substrates using a heat-press mechanism. Unlike the DTG (direct-to-garment) method, which only works on cotton fabrics, DTF can work on cotton and polyblends. 

WHAT GARMENTS CAN BE PRINTED USING DTF?

DTF printing is suitable for almost any fabric material, including cotton. It can also be printed in any colour, including black and dark-coloured fabrics. 

WHAT EQUIPMENT DO I NEED TO GET STARTED?

• DTF Printer RIP Software
• DTF Printing Inks 
• PET Films
• Hot-Melt Adhesive Powder
• Powder Shaker
• Curing Oven
• Heat Press
• Laptop (specification available)
• Extraction/Ventilation available

WHAT IS THE PRINTER SPECIFICATION?

• Printhead: 2-4 pcs Epson I3200-A1
• Printing speed: 9-12sqm/h
• Max print width: 60cm (24 inch)
• Power Supply: Printer: 220V, 50/60HZ, 10A 350W; Shaker/Oven: 220V, 50/60HZ,
• 500W 16A

WHAT IS THE PRESS TIME AND HEAT SETTING?

Polyester: 160oC for maximum of 10 seconds Cotton: 150oC for 20-30 seconds

HOW IS DTF PET FILM POWDER APPLIED?

PET Film powder (polyurethane resin) or adhesion powder is applied after the printer completes the print. The ink is still wet after being applied to the PET film media. PET film powder adheres to any areas where ink is applied. Unprinted areas will not attract the powder and can be shaken off. PET film powder can be applied by hand (typically with desktop printers) or via a powder shaker machine (typically with a wide format/OEM machine).

HOW IS PET FILM POWDER CURED?

The powder is cured and melted using a heat source. The method for doing this differs depending on your printer setup. Desktop printers generally require manual curing of the powder. This can be achieved using a DTF curing oven, a heat gun or under a heat press. Wide-format printer setups often have a curing oven built to allow the powdered film to be cured in an automated fashion.

DO DTF PRINTS REQUIRE ‘WEEDING’?

No, DTF prints do not require ‘weeding’ or the design contour cutting. The printed PET film design simply has powder applied to the surface, the powder is then cured and the print can be heat transferred to a garment. The printed design adheres to the garment via the cured adhesive powder. The PET film simply peels off to leave the printed design with no outline.