Updated 09/11/2026
The short answer
DTF stands for direct to film. Your design is printed onto a thin film, coated with a fine adhesive powder, then heat-pressed onto the garment. The result is a bright, full colour print that bends with the fabric and works on almost any material.
How DTF printing works
- The design is printed in colour onto a clear film, with a layer of white ink behind it so colours stay bright on dark fabric.
- While the ink is wet, a fine adhesive powder is added, then melted on in a curing oven.
- The film is laid on the garment and heat-pressed, which bonds the ink and adhesive into the fabric.
- The film is peeled away, leaving just the print.
What DTF is good at
- Full colour and detail. Gradients, small text and photos print cleanly.
- Small runs. No screens to set up, so one garment costs about the same per item as twenty.
- Lots of fabrics. Cotton, polyester and blends, light or dark.
- Mixed kits. The same design can go on t-shirts, hoodies, hi-vis and bags in one order.
Where something else is better
- Big, solid areas of colour feel heavier and less breathable as a DTF print. A large one-colour design can be better screen printed.
- Hundreds of the same simple design: screen printing is usually cheaper at that volume.
- Fleeces and caps: embroidery looks better and lasts longer.
- A premium, raised look on polos and softshells: embroidery again.
DTF compared with other methods
| Method | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| DTF | Small runs, full colour, most fabrics | Large solid areas feel heavier |
| Screen print | Large runs, few colours | Setup cost per colour |
| DTG (direct to garment) | Soft prints on cotton | Less suited to polyester |
| Vinyl | Names, numbers, one-colour text | Not for detailed logos |
| Embroidery | Small logos, premium look, long life | Not for big or very detailed designs |
Still deciding between stitching and printing? Read embroidery vs printing. When you order printed kit from us, we choose the right print method for your design, garment and quantity. See our printing page.
Common questions
- What does DTF stand for?
- Direct to film. The design is printed onto a film first, then transferred to the garment with heat and pressure.
- How long does DTF printing last?
- A well-pressed DTF print lasts many washes without cracking or peeling. Wash inside out at 30 to 40 degrees, avoid high heat in the dryer and don't iron over the print.
- Is DTF better than screen printing?
- It depends on the job. DTF is better value for small runs and full colour designs because there are no screens to set up. Screen printing is cheaper for large runs of a design with only a few colours.
- Is DTF the same as a heat transfer?
- It's a type of heat transfer, but a better one than older iron-on transfers. The print is thinner, more flexible and much more durable.
- Can DTF go on polyester and hi-vis?
- Yes. DTF works on cotton, polyester and blends, which is one reason it's used so widely on workwear. On hi-vis, the print is kept off the reflective tape.
Not sure which to pick?
Build your kit, choose either method, and we'll tell you on your free digital proof if the other would work better. Nothing is made until you approve.