How Does DTF Film Work?

A Simple Guide to Direct to Film Printing 

Direct to Film (DTF) printing has transformed the way businesses produce vibrant, durable transfers for garments and other products. At the heart of this process is DTF film, a specially coated material that makes the magic possible. But how exactly does DTF film work, and why is it so effective? Let’s break it down.

What is DTF Film? 

DTF film is a specially treated PET (polyethylene terephthalate) sheet designed to hold ink and adhesive powder before being transferred to fabric. Unlike standard transfer papers, DTF film is engineered to handle high-definition prints and work with textile-friendly inks, giving exceptional colour accuracy and durability.

At Resolute, our premium DTF films are manufactured to precise tolerances to ensure consistent results, whether you’re producing one-off designs or large production runs. And if you’re looking for an alternative to film, our Direct to Paper Transfer (DTP) technology offers a more eco-friendly solution that removes the need for PET sheets entirely.

Step-by-Step: How DTF Film Works 

1. Printing the Design 

Your design is printed in reverse onto the coated side of the DTF film using a dedicated DTF printer. 

• CMYK inks go down first to create the colour layer. 

• White ink is printed last to form a base layer, ensuring the design looks vibrant on dark or coloured fabrics. 

The coating on the film holds the ink in place without spreading, resulting in sharp detail and rich colour. 

2. Applying Adhesive Powder 

While the ink is still wet, a fine TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) powder is evenly applied to the printed areas. This powder is the heat-activated glue that bonds your design to the fabric. 

It is important to ensure that the ink isn’t too wet, it should be left for a few minutes before adding the powder. This reduces the likelihood of the powder penetrating the surface tension, causing pin holes in the white ink layer. 

Quality matters here, uneven coverage can lead to patchy transfers, so automated powdering equipment or careful manual application is essential. 

3. Curing the Transfer 

The film is then passed through a curing oven or heat press (hovering mode) to melt the adhesive powder without flattening the print. This stage solidifies the transfer, making it ready for storage or immediate application.

4. Transferring to Fabric 

When it’s time to apply the design, the DTF film is placed ink-side down on the garment. A heat press activates the adhesive, bonding the design to the fibres of the fabric. 

One of DTF’s biggest advantages is its versatility, it works on cotton, polyester, blends, and even some non-fabric surfaces. 

5. Peeling the Film 

After pressing, the film is peeled away to reveal a vibrant, flexible print. Depending on the type of DTF film you use, this could be a hot, warm, or cold peel process.

Resolute films are engineered for easy release, leaving a smooth finish without residue. 

Why DTF Film Works So Well

• Strong adhesion – TPU powder forms a lasting bond with fabric fibres. 

• Vivid colour reproduction – The PET film coating locks in detail. 

• Durability – Prints can withstand repeated washing without cracking or fading. 

• Versatility – Works on a wide range of fabrics and materials. 

Choosing the Right DTF Film or Going Film-Free 

Not all DTF films are created equal. The quality of the coating, thickness of the PET, and compatibility with your inks all make a difference. Resolute’s range of DTF films are tested for: 

• Consistent release 

• Compatibility with our inks and printers 

• Optimal performance across production volumes 

And for those looking to cut down on waste, the Direct to Paper Transfer (DTP) system is an exciting innovation. It delivers all the benefits of DTF but uses coated paper instead of PET film, making the process more environmentally friendly, without compromising quality. 

Final Thoughts 

DTF film is the backbone of the Direct to Film printing process. Its ability to hold ink, bond with adhesive powder, and release cleanly onto fabric is what makes DTF printing such a game-changer. By choosing the right film, or exploring eco-conscious alternatives like Resolute’s DTP technology, you can achieve professional-quality transfers every time. 

If you’d like to explore Resolute’s premium DTF films or our innovative Direct to Paper solutions, contact our team today, we’ll help you get the perfect match for your setup.