Long dominated by screen printing, textile printing has been transformed by the arrival of DTF (Direct to Film). This technique makes it possible to print any design - photograph, illustration, gradient - on almost all textiles, with no colour setup cost and from the very first piece. marq Studio offers DTF printing from its Parisian workshop, for businesses and private clients alike.
What is DTF printing?
DTF stands for Direct to Film - literally "directly onto a film". It is a transfer printing technique that takes place in four distinct steps.
The design is printed onto a transparent PET film using high-resistance pigment inks, including an opaque white base layer underneath.
A hot-melt powder is applied evenly onto the still-wet film, then heated to solidify and create the adhesive layer.
The film is positioned on the textile and heat-pressed (150-165°C) for a few seconds. The powder melts and permanently bonds the design to the fabric.
The result is a flexible transfer, slightly raised, with vivid and precise colours. The flexibility of the DTF transfer is one of its major qualities - unlike some vinyl prints that crack, DTF follows the deformation of the fabric without splitting.
Advantages of DTF over screen printing
Screen printing remains a reference technique for very large runs with few colours. But in most cases, DTF has decisive advantages.
| Criterion | DTF Printing | Screen Printing |
|---|---|---|
| Setup cost | None - from the very first piece | High (screen per colour) |
| Number of colours | Unlimited - photo-realistic possible | Limited (cost per colour) |
| Compatible supports | Very wide (cotton, polyester, blends) | Mainly cotton and flat surfaces |
| Small runs | Very well suited (from 1 piece) | Not cost-effective below 50 pieces |
| Gradients and photos | Perfect result | Difficult and costly |
| Durability | 50-80 washes at 30-40°C | Excellent on cotton (80+ washes) |
Compatible supports for DTF printing
One of DTF's major strengths is its compatibility with a wide range of textile and non-textile supports. Unlike embroidery, which is poorly suited to very thin surfaces, DTF works on almost everything.
Compatible textiles
- Cotton and organic cotton - optimal result, vivid colours
- Polyester and polycotton blends - compatible, slight blurring possible on some blends
- Nylon and technical fabrics - compatible depending on the type of finish
- Faux leather (synthetic) - transfer possible with adapted technique
- Dark supports - the underlying white layer ensures faithful colours
Most common article types
- T-shirts and polo shirts - flat surface, optimal result
- Tote bags - large surface, ideal for events
- Sweatshirts and hoodies - full compatibility
- Caps (flat front panel) - compatible with backing
- Kitchen aprons - large surface, frequent washing to be anticipated
- Mouse mats and desk accessories - flat non-textile surfaces
Recommended file formats
The quality of the source file directly influences the quality of the final result. For professional DTF printing, here is what we recommend.
- PNG with transparent background (alpha channel) - ideal format for designs on coloured backgrounds
- Minimum 300 dpi at the intended print size
- Vector file (AI, SVG, EPS, PDF) - maximum quality, scalable without loss
- RGB colour space for faithful colour rendering matching the screen
- Avoid: JPEG (compression artefacts), GIF (limited palette), low-resolution images
Lead times and indicative prices
DTF printing has no setup cost - you only pay for the printed pieces. Lead times are generally shorter than for embroidery as there is no digitisation stage.
- Quote within 24 working hours after receiving the file and requirements
- Production lead time: 3-7 working days depending on quantities
- DTF printed T-shirt: from £7-11 per piece (1 piece) / £4.50-6.50 per piece (50+)
- DTF printed tote bag: from £5.50-9 per piece (1 piece) / £3.50-5.50 per piece (50+)
- Express 48h option available on request