If you want to design your own clothes or open a business in textiles or printing, using Direct to Film (DTF) is a great and popular choice. Regardless of whether you’re just a hobbyist or run a clothing business, the printing method here provides high quality on many fabrics with much less trouble compared to systems like screen printing or DTG (Direct-to-Garment).

In this blog, we’ll review what you should learn before getting started with Calgary DTF transfers, the whole process, and the reasons it will help to use trusted suppliers like Formulated Prints, especially if you’re in Canada.

What Are DTF Transfers?

DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing is a relatively new technology where designs are printed directly onto special film using a dedicated printer, coated with a powdered adhesive, and then heat-transferred to fabric. The major advantage? It performs well on cotton, polyester, dark, and light fabrics, and you do not need to pre-treat the clothing.

Even if you are only printing a few hoodies or many items for your streetwear firm, digitally-transferred hoodies will remain sturdy, coloured, and flexible.

Equipment and Materials You’ll Need

Starting with DTF printing isn’t as complicated as it may seem. Below is a complete list of the essential equipment and materials you’ll need:

1. DTF Printer

This is the heart of your operation. Unlike standard inkjet printers, a DTF printer is engineered to print CMYK colours plus white ink on film. Entry-level machines usually come with dual heads and support roll-to-roll printing.

2. PET Film (Cold Peel or Hot Peel)

PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film is what the design is printed onto. These films are specially coated to handle DTF inks and adhesive powders, ensuring crisp detail and solid ink adherence.

3. DTF Ink

You’ll need water-based pigment inks, including white ink. The white layer goes down first to allow colours to stand out vibrantly on any background fabric.

4. Adhesive Powder

After printing, tiny TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) particles are sprayed over the wet ink. Heating this furthers the bond between the design and the fabric of the garment.

5. Heat Press

A reliable heat press ensures proper adhesion of the film design to the garment. Temperature control and consistent pressure are key.

Software and Design Preparation

While the hardware is critical, software plays a crucial role too. You’ll need:

• RIP Software: This helps convert your image files into a format your printer understands. It manages colour profiles and ink flow for optimal print quality.
  

• Graphic Design Software: Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and CorelDRAW are some of the most common applications for preparing art designs.
  

Make sure your designs are high-resolution (300 DPI or higher) to ensure your final print is sharp and vibrant.

The DTF Transfer Process: Step by Step

Understanding the process helps you plan production and troubleshoot effectively.

Step 1: Print on Film

Designs are printed in mirror image onto PET film, with white ink laid down first to create a strong foundation.

Step 2: Apply Adhesive Powder

As soon as the ink is still wet, adhesive powder is applied over it, covering it well and removing any excess powder.

Step 3: Cure the Powder

Using a curing oven or a heat press set slightly above the film, melt the powder to form a strong, glue-like layer.

Step 4: Transfer the Image

Place the film onto your garment and press using a heat press at around 300–320°F (150–160°C) for 15–20 seconds.

Step 5: Peel and Finish

Let the film cool (for cold peel films), then gently remove it. Optionally, you can press the design again with a cover sheet to ensure longevity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid as a Beginner

Starting with DTF can come with a few hiccups. Here are common mistakes beginners should watch for:

• Using Low-Quality Film: Not all PET films are created equal—invest in premium film to avoid smudges or poor adhesion.
  

• Skipping the Curing Step: If the adhesive powder isn’t appropriately melted, your transfers won’t stick.
  

• Inconsistent Pressure or Temperature: This leads to incomplete transfers or cracking.
  

• Wrong Design Orientation: Always mirror your designs before printing!
  

Why Consider Professional Suppliers like Formulated Prints?

Getting started on your own is great, but sourcing high-quality materials and transfers from a professional service like Formulated Prints can significantly elevate your results.

Based in Canada, Formulated Prints offers expert services and top-tier supplies for individuals seeking to enter the printing industry. They also provide ready-made Calgary DTF transfers, enabling small businesses and custom t-shirt creators to print without incurring significant investment in machinery.

Here’s why Formulated Prints stands out:

• High-Quality Materials: From PET film to adhesive powder and vibrant inks, their quality control ensures reliable results.
  

• Custom Transfer Services: You can order custom gang sheets or one-off prints without needing a printer of your own.
  

• Fast Turnaround: Significant for business clients who can’t afford to wait for production.
  

• Local Advantage: As a Canadian provider, they offer fast shipping and support tailored to your needs, including direct to film transfers CA.
  

FAQs: Getting Started with DTF Transfers

Q. Do I need a special printer for DTF?

A: Yes. A DTF printer is different from an inkjet or laser printer. It is designed to print white ink and use specialized DTF inks.

Q. Is it better to outsource or print in-house?

A: For small orders or beginners, outsourcing to services offering Calgary DTF transfers can save time and ensure professional results.

Q. How long do DTF transfers last?

A: When applied correctly, they can withstand over 50 washes without fading or cracking.

Q. What types of garments can I use?

A: DTF transfers are suitable for cotton, polyester, blends, and even non-textile items, such as tote bags.

Q. Can I start with pre-made transfers?

A: Absolutely. Many small businesses start by ordering pre-printed gang sheets from providers like Formulated Prints.

Conclusion

Starting with direct to film transfers CA is now more accessible than ever. If you have the correct equipment, information and a dependable supplier Formulated Prints, you can produce professional clothes right in your studio. DTF gives you the freedom and high quality needed to make successful t-shirts, regardless of if they are for your own use or a business.

If you’re in Canada and want dependable DTF transfers, Formulated Prints is the best choice for materials, support and custom graphics. Get started today and allow your creativity to shine through your designs.