DTF Printing is Here at Big Systems

DTF Printing is here at Big Systems, and immediately available in multiple configurations. The printing industry has experienced rapid growth recently, with more and more organizations moving to DTF printers The use of Direct-to-Film (DTF) allows you to obtain simplicity, convenience, and consistency in performance with a wide range of colors. In addition, DTF printers are now a reliable and cost-effective system to own.

What is DTF Printing?

Combining simplicity, convenience and consistency with reliable performance and cost-effective fabric transfer printing

Direct-to-Film printing is a method that rivals Direct-to-Garment printing (DTG) and allows users to print their logos and/or artwork onto a special type of coated PET film. This film is then used to transfer the printed image onto textiles using a lightweight powder adhesive that can be applied manually or by using an automatic powder shaker to distribute the adhesive evenly across the artwork and film, and with this added step, the transfer process is made possible. Big Systems has everything you need to get started.

This coated PET film is manufactured to handle the high temperatures and pressures used from a heat press. Our high-quality printable film works with any desktop or large format DTF printer and is available from Big Systems.

Having the correct adhesive powder can make all the difference in DTF printing. We carry such powders, and you’ll be pleased with their results. Our powders can withstand up to 40+ washes with great coverage and a high-level transfer rate. Keep in mind, any excess powder can always be reused for the next transfer to get the most out of your investment.

When it comes to printing inks, Big Systems leads the way with its vast array of high-quality ink types. That’s why you’re guaranteed our DTF ink has been specially formulated for this process and is made in the USA where rigorous quality testing is the norm. For decades we have provided our customers with the products and quality they’ve come to expect, and DTF inks for DTF film printing are no exception.

The DTF Process

how it works

DTF allows users to print their logos and artwork onto a special type of coated PET film. This film is then used to transfer the printed image onto textiles using a lightweight powder adhesive that can be applied manually (or by an automatic powder shaker) distributing the adhesive across the artwork and film, making the transfer process possible. Big Systems has everything you need to get started!

Design & Print

creative freedom

Create your design using your graphic software, such as Illustrator or Photoshop. Using the included RIP software, your artwork is sent to
the printer with a white ink overlay. The printer outputs your design on coated PET film.

Shake & Bake

prep for transfer

Apply powder adhesive evenly onto the printed film. This can be manual or using an automated powder shaker. Then melt the
adhesive using a heat press, oven or heated shaker unit.

Transfer

ready to go!

Heat press your design onto the desired garment or substrate. Applicable on cotton, polyester, blends, denim, silk, nylon, fleece, leather, cardboard and
other flat, rough and rigid materials. Works equally well on white, light or dark colored textiles.

What Sets DTF Apart from Other Methods?

versatility

Here are some key factors that set Direct-to-Film apart from other transfer processes…

Works on Most any Fabrics

DTG technology works best on cotton pre-treated fabrics while DTF opens the door to a wide range of choices and is capable of printing onto non-treated cotton, silk, polyester, denim, nylon, leather, 50/50 blends, and more. It works equally well on white and dark textiles.