What is DTF Printing?
Direct-to-Film (DTF) is a relatively new technology in the printing industry that lets you print images on special heat transfer films. These films are then applied through heat pressing onto different fabrics, including cotton, poly blends, polyester, and even rigid surfaces like wood or metal. The method is appreciated for its range of applications because it is suitable for a large selection of fabrics.Advantages of DTF:
1. Versatility with fabrics: It allows printing on cotton, polyester, and blended fabrics, including both cotton and polyester, making it more versatile compared to sublimation.2. Vibrant Colors and Detail: The colors printed via DTF are rich, and it can handle fine details with precision.
3. Print durability: DTF prints are highly durable, enduring multiple wash sessions without showing cracks or fading.
4. Simple process: DTF doesn’t involve pre-processing the fabric, making the process faster and easier for big printing jobs.
Limitations of DTF:
1. Price: DTF printing needs specific printers and transfer film, which can make the initial outlay larger.2. Hand-feel: The film used can create a noticeable layer and stiffer compared to sublimation.
What is Sublimation Printing?
Sublimation transfer uses a heating process to transfer ink directly into polyester surfaces or specialized surfaces. It works by changing the dye into gaseous form, which then fuses with the fabric, creating a vivid, soft print.Advantages of Sublimation:
1. Soft hand: Since the color becomes part of the fabric, the printed design do not affect the fabric feel.2. Bright, Long-lasting Prints: You get bold, clear colors that won’t degrade over time over time.
3. Affordable for polyester garments: It's an optimal method for synthetic apparel or items like hard surfaces like mugs.
Limitations of Sublimation:
1. Not suitable for all materials: Sublimation is only works on polyester and coated surfaces or specially coated items, making it incompatible with cotton.2. Limited to lighter fabrics: Sublimation only works on light-colored garments since the ink is absorbed into the fabric, and the design gets lost on dark surfaces.
Conclusion:
DTF and sublimation both have their advantages. If you prioritize fabric variety, DTF might be the better option. However, if you're planning to print mostly poly-blend fabrics and seek a seamless, soft texture, sublimation might be the better option.Find out more on - sublimation vs dtf
Contact:
Sublistar
Address: Xinghe World, No. 56, lingzhi Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, Jiangsu
Phone: 86-15850596034, 86-25-86628894
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