In a recent article written by Johnny Shell (Director of Keypoint Intelligence’s Functional & Industrial Printing Consulting Service), the newest trend in the decorated apparel industry is explored: direct-to-film (DTF) printing.
Direct-to-Film printing technology
This technology allows users to print designs onto polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film using water-based pigment inks, which can then be transferred onto apparel using a heat press. The benefits of DTF over other printing methods such as direct-to-garment (DTG) and dye-sublimation are discussed, including the ability to print on difficult fabrics like polyester and nylon without pre-treatment, and the absence of cutting and weeding required with other transfer technologies. However, color profiling and the need for special RIP software are noted as potential challenges.
The full article can be read on the Commentary & Analysis section of whattheythink.com, "Direct-to-Film Printing: An Emerging Trend in Decorated Apparel".
