If you’ve ever ordered custom shirts, hats, or hoodies, you’ve probably come across a few popular decoration methods: screen printing, direct-to-garment (DTG), maybe even sublimation. But have you heard about DTF?

Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing is one of the newer kids on the custom apparel block—and we’re big fans. It’s versatile, durable, detail-friendly, and great for all kinds of apparel and promo products. Let’s break it down and see how it stacks up against the classics.

 

🖼️ What Is DTF Printing?

DTF printing involves printing your design onto a special transfer film using water-based inks, then applying a powder adhesive and heat-pressing it directly onto the garment. The result? A vibrant, soft-yet-durable imprint that plays nice with most fabric types.

Unlike other methods, DTF doesn’t require any screens, pre-treatments, or fuss. It’s perfect for complex artwork, short runs, and fast turnarounds.

 

🆚 DTF vs. Screen Printing

Screen printing is an OG in the industry—great for bold, solid designs and large-volume jobs. But it requires a separate screen for each color, which can drive up costs and lead times for multicolor or intricate artwork.

DTF printing skips the screens entirely. It handles full-color artwork and fine details like a champ, and it feels consistent across the garment (no ink pile-up). Best of all? No minimum order headaches.

 

🆚 DTF vs. DTG (Direct-to-Garment)

DTG sprays ink directly onto the fabric—but only after a pre-treatment step and only if it’s mostly cotton. Think soft, breathable prints with some material limitations.

DTF works on way more fabrics (not just cotton) and doesn’t require pre-treatment. If you want to offer poly blends, performance gear, or dark garments, DTF is your go-to.

 

🆚 DTF vs. Sublimation

Sublimation is great for polyester and light-colored items. It fuses ink directly into the fabric, which means no texture on top—but it’s picky. No darks. No cotton. No flexibility.

DTF printing? It loves both light and dark fabrics. It doesn’t play favorites. Plus, it works well on non-poly garments too, making it ideal if you want to expand your product line.

 

🎯 So, Why Choose DTF?

 

• • ✅ Super versatile – works on cotton, poly, blends, and more

• • 🎨 Detail-friendly – no screens, no limits on colors or complexity

• • ⚡ Quick turnaround – faster production and short runs welcome

• • 🧺 Durable and washable – holds up great over time

• • 💰 Cost-effective – especially for small-to-medium batches

 

At Amplified Ink, we use DTF printing because we believe in offering options that fit your style and your budget. Whether you’re a band, a brand, or a business, DTF gives you the freedom to get creative—without compromise.

 

Ready to Try DTF for Your Next Project?

We’re all ears—and full of ink.
Let’s talk about how we can bring your next custom apparel idea to life.

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