What is DTF Printing? – A Beginner’s Guide to Direct-to-Film Transfers

What is DTF Printing? – A Beginner’s Guide to Direct-to-Film Transfers

Introduction

DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing is one of the fastest-growing print technologies in the apparel and custom design industry. Unlike screen printing or sublimation, DTF transfers allow for full-color, durable prints on nearly any fabric — without expensive setup costs or large minimum orders.

At Roman Empire Print Shop LLC, we specialize in DTF gangsheets and UV DTF decals that are perfect for crafters, businesses, schools, and print shops across Montana and Utah. If you’ve heard the term “DTF printing” but aren’t sure how it works, this guide will walk you through the process and benefits.

What is DTF Printing?

DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing is a method where your artwork is printed onto a special film using water-based pigment inks. The print is then coated with an adhesive powder, cured, and transferred onto your product using a heat press.

Key Features of DTF:

  • Works on cotton, polyester, blends, dark fabrics, and light fabrics

  • Full-color designs including gradients and photo-realistic images

  • No minimum order quantities — order 1 or 100

  • Transfers stay vivid and durable, resisting cracks and fading

How Does DTF Printing Work?

  1. Design Creation – You send us a high-resolution PNG file with a transparent background.

  2. Printing on Film – The design is printed onto DTF film using CMYK + White inks.

  3. Powder Application – Adhesive powder is applied to the ink and cured under heat.

  4. Heat Press Transfer – The film is placed on your garment or product and pressed at ~320°F.

  5. Finished Product – The film is peeled, leaving a soft, durable design.

Why Choose DTF Over Other Methods?

Method Pros Cons
DTF Printing Full color, no minimums, works on any fabric Requires heat press
Screen Printing Great for bulk, classic feel High setup cost, not good for small runs
Sublimation Vivid colors, all-over printing Only works on polyester & light fabric
Vinyl Cheap, simple logos Limited detail, not long-lasting

👉 DTF is the most versatile method when you need high-quality prints fast without committing to a large order.

What Can You Make with DTF?

At Roman Empire Print Shop LLC, we’ve helped customers create:

  • Custom t-shirts, hoodies, and team uniforms

  • Biker club and event apparel

  • Merchandise for small businesses

  • School spirit wear

  • Branded gear for corporate giveaways

And with our UV DTF decals, you can also customize:

  • Tumblers & cups

  • Helmets & tools

  • Promotional products

  • Stickers & signage

Why Order from Roman Empire Print Shop LLC?

  • 22″ Wide Gangsheets – maximize space, save money

  • 300 DPI Quality – sharp, photo-like designs

  • Same-Day / Next-Day Pickup – available in Montana & Utah

  • No Minimum Orders – from one logo to full runs

  • Trusted by shops, crafters, and schools

💥 New Customers: Use code REPNOOB for 10% OFF your first order.

How to Order

  1. Go to romanempireprinting.com

  2. Select your DTF Gangsheets or UV DTF Decals

  3. Upload your artwork (transparent PNG recommended)

  4. Choose local pickup or shipping

  5. Get your transfers — fast

Conclusion

DTF printing is changing the way businesses, creators, and shops get their designs on fabric and products. Whether you need one shirt or a full run of custom decals, DTF offers the flexibility, speed, and quality you need.

👉 Ready to try it for yourself? Order now at romanempireprinting.com and use code REPNOOB for 10% off your first gangsheet order.

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