Different printing methods possess their own distinctness from the others of their kind. And direct to film printing is one of the most unique ones in the group. Aside from being an exciting new addition to clothing decoration and product printing, it also breaks the cycle by not requiring the need for pre-treatments. And despite the removal of pre-treatment, it is still able to stay on top of its game by producing a soft feel and quality prints.
In the rapidly expanding field of the printing industry, direct-to-film transfers play a heavy role in maintaining the balance. Especially when it comes to high volumes of orders, DTF printing offers reliably, unrivaled quality and high production rates.
However, same as with the other printing methods, direct-to-film printing also bears its own highs and lows. Take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of DTF printing below:
Advantages of DTF Printing
Applicable for a wide range of materials
DTF printing offers the versatility many printing industries and business are looking for these days. Rather than the usual and commonly used cotton materials, DTF printing gives people more choices to choose from. It can be used on nylon, treated leather, polyester, 50/50 blends, and even on both light and dark fabrics.
In addition, other than the versatility of the kind of material, it also allows several printing industries to transfer prints on various surfaces which includes luggage, shoes, glass, wood, and even metal.
Easier and faster printing method
As mentioned a while ago, the printing industry has been continuously expanding and has been needing easier and faster methods of printing for bulk orders. And out of all the applicable methods in custom printing and promotional product printing, DTF gets to be chosen as one of the top candidates.
This is mainly due to the fact that DTF printing does not require any pre-processing methods. Removing those from the overall procedure of direct-to-film printing saves time and also allows you to produce more products at a much faster pace. This printing method applies hot melt power to DTF transfers that directly bind the printed matter directly onto the material thus allowing us to completely get rid of the tiring and time-consuming pre-treatment.
Offers better durability
Everyone loves long-lasting and highly durable printed products. May it be on shirts, hoodies, tumblers, bags, caps, or even mugs. Aside from prolonging the life of the item and its use, it also gives the brand being endorsed the trustworthiness it needs to build customer relationships.
As compared to DTG prints that produce a soft and non-tactile feel, DTF prints do not give off the same kind of feel. However, one thing that DTF printed materials can be proud of is that since the prints are transferred directly to the film wash, it prevents the prints from cracking or flaking making direct-to-film printing the most ideal method for producing heavy-to-use items.
Disadvantages of DTF Printing
Higher Cost
In line with the range of upsides, direct-to-film printing gets to offer its need for much pricier tabs. And we all know that the heaviest weighing factor in choosing the right printing method for one’s personal or business needs is its cost. This method appears to be more costly as compared to the other printing techniques reducing its feasibility.
Discoloration
Direct-to-film printing comes along with its own heat transfer method. This method makes use of heat sublimation ink and high-temperature ironing that may be subject to the changing of the garment’s color.
Lack of tenderness on the prints
As mentioned earlier, DTF printing does not give the same soft and non-tactile feel as DTG prints. The prints under the direct-to-film printing technique are not smooth and might actually feel a little hard. Although after some washing, it could appear and feel softer over time but the breathability of the design would still remain relatively poor.
