What is DTF Printing?
Direct-to-Film (DTF) is a up-and-coming process in the printing industry that gives you the ability to print artwork on special transfer films. These films are then heat-transferred onto different fabrics, including cotton, poly blends, polyester, and even sturdy surfaces like metal, wood surfaces. Direct-to-Film is recognized for its broad usability because it can be applied to a wide range of fabrics.Advantages of DTF:
1. Ability to print on many fabrics: It allows printing on cotton, polyester, and blended fabrics, including natural and synthetic fibers, giving it a broader range of application compared to sublimation.2. Excellent color vibrancy and details: DTF prints offer vibrant hues, and it can handle small details with high fidelity.
3. Longevity: DTF prints are extremely long-lasting, resisting multiple washes without showing cracks or fading.
4. Simple process: DTF does not require pre-treatment, making the process faster and easier for high-volume orders.
Limitations of DTF:
1. Price: DTF printing requires specialized printers and heat transfer films, which can make the upfront cost more expensive.2. Texture on garments: The transfer film can feel heavier and not as soft compared to sublimation.
What is Sublimation Printing?
Sublimation uses thermal energy to transfer dye directly into polyester fabrics or specially coated surfaces. It works by turning solid dye into gas, which then bonds with the fabric fibers, creating a vibrant, smooth finish.Advantages of Sublimation:
1. No texture on fabric: Since the dye particles becomes part of the fabric, the printed design keep the fabric's original feel.2. Colorful, fade-resistant designs: Sublimation provides sharp, long-lasting prints that won’t degrade over time over time.
3. Affordable for polyester garments: It's an optimal method for synthetic apparel or items like mugs and phone cases.
Limitations of Sublimation:
1. Not suitable for all materials: Sublimation is restricted to synthetic fabrics or polyester-coated surfaces, making it ineffective on cotton.2. Requires Light Fabrics: Sublimation is limited when used on dark colors since the ink becomes part of the fabric, and dark colors make the sublimation print less effective.
Conclusion:
Both DTF and sublimation have their benefits. If you want to print on a range of fabrics, DTF is the way to go. However, if you're primarily printing polyester garments and need a smooth, soft finish, sublimation may be the way to go.Find out more on - cloth printing
Contact:
Sublistar
Address: Xinghe World, No. 56, lingzhi Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, Jiangsu
Phone: 86-15850596034, 86-25-86628894
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
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