DTF Printing FAQs – Everything You Need To Know

What is DTF printing?

DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing is a digital decoration method where designs are printed onto a film, then transferred to garments (or other substrates) using heat and pressure. The process allows full-colour prints, white ink layers, and works on light and dark fabrics.

It offers an alternative to traditional screen printing or direct-to-garment in many cases.

How does the DTF process work?

1. Print the design onto DTF film using specialised DTF inks (including white ink if needed).

2. Apply a hot-melt adhesive DTF powder to the wet print.

3. Cure or fix the print so the powder bonds to the ink.

4. Transfer the print from the film onto the substrate (garment, bag, etc) with heat and pressure.

5. Peel the DTF film (hot or cold depending on film) and finish. Because the film allows a clean transfer, you get strong adhesion, good wash durability, and vibrant colours, even on dark garments.

Why choose DTF rather than other methods (like screen or DTG)?

Here are some of the key advantages of using DTF printers:

• Works well for short runs and full-colour designs.

• Good on dark garments without special pre-treatment (depending on system).

• Cheaper initial outlay and easier setup process than screen printing for smaller runs.

• Versatile: not just T-shirts but bags, hoodies and some harder substrates with the right UV DTF printer system.

  
  
  
  

That said, like any method, it has trade-offs (we’ll cover those later).

What kind of printers does Resolute offer for DTF?

At Resolute you’ll find a full range of DTF printers to suit different business sizes and needs. Key models include:

• R‑Jet PRO DTF™ V9 – a high-end production machine, nine-colour ink system, built for speed and automation.

• R-Jet PRO DTF™ V8i – production-level workhorse with high linear metre hourly speeds.

• R-Jet PRO DTF™ V4i – mid-range solution, strong value for those getting into professional DTF.

• R-Jet PRO DTF™ mini – compact desktop footprint, ideal for smaller operations or space-limited setups.

• R-Jet PRO DTF™ UVi & UV61 – UV DTF versions for hard substrates, wider formats, more versatility.

• CraftyJet™ – entry-level accessible DTF printer aimed at creators, home studios and small businesses.

Which printer is right for my business?

This depends on your business size, budget, throughput needs and substrate variety. Here’s a quick guide:

• Just starting out, small-run custom work: the CraftyJet™ or Mini gives you entry-level cost, space-efficient footprint.

• Growing business, higher output but still garment-focused: the V4i is a strong balance.

• High volume production, multiple jobs per day, wide substrate variety: go for V8i or V9.

• Want to decorate hard substrates (mugs, bottles, promotional items) or want wider formats: consider the UV DTF printing models (UVi / UV61).

What substrates and applications work with DTF?

DTF works very well on:

• Cotton, polyester, blends (garments)

• Dark and light garments

• Hoodies, bags, sportswear

• With the right UV DTF printer UK system: hard goods, including promotional items such as personalised mugs, bottle, coasters etc

What are the typical print quality and durability outcomes?

When done properly (quality DTF films, powder, inks, correct transfer parameters), DTF printing delivers:

• Vibrant, full-colour output with good opacity.

• Excellent adhesion and wash durability.

• Strong detail and good edge definition.

With Resolute’s DTF printers and DTF supplies you benefit from UK-manufactured inks and a full consumables ecosystem which supports consistent output.

What are the key consumables and running costs I should consider?

• DTF films (hot peel / cold peel)

• Powder adhesive (melt type)

• Inks (including white ink)

• Maintenance parts (heads, cleaning)

Running costs will vary by volume, substrate type and how efficient your workflow is. Choosing a reliable UK DTF supplier (and OEM consumables where appropriate) helps maintain quality and reduce downtime.

What are the limitations or things to watch out for?

• Good workflow and heat press capability are crucial, a top DTF printer alone isn’t enough.

• Transfer parameters (heat, pressure, time) must be correctly dialled in.

• If you’re doing very high volumes, screen printing may still be cost-effective for simple one or two-colour jobs.

• Some garments have special coatings or textures that may affect adhesion. Always test!

• Space, ventilation, operator training and consumable sourcing should all be factored in when selecting a printer.

How should I set up my workflow for success with DTF?

• Choose the right machine for your demand and substrate diversity.

• Use high-quality DTF films and powders (Resolute offers a full consumable range).

• Train operators in correct transfer parameter setting.

• Implement quality checks (wash testing, adhesion tests).

• Maintain your machine (cleaning, head alignment, powder cleaning).

• Track cost per print (consumable usage + labour + machine running costs) to ensure margin.

• Keep consistency: same operator, same parameters, same consumables.

What about substrate preparation and finishing?

• Pre-press garments to remove moisture and flatten seams.

• Print transfer, apply powder and cure as per DTF film pressing instructions.

• Heat press onto the garment/substrate with correct temperature, time and pressure.

• Peel film (hot or cold depending on specifications) then optionally post-press for finishing.

Following these steps helps ensure good adhesion and durability.

Final thoughts

DTF printing is a highly flexible, full-colour, viable solution for many garment and promotional print businesses. With the right machine (such as those in Resolute’s DTF printer UK range), consumables and workflow in place, you can scale and diversify your offerings effectively.

If you’d like help choosing the right model for your business, comparing run-costs or planning your installation and workflow, then please get in touch and one of our dedicated team will be happy to help.