What is DTF Printing?
Direct Film Transfer is a fairly recent method in the printing industry that allows you to print prints on special DTF films. These films are then heat-transferred onto a variety of substrates, including cotton and polyester fabrics, blends, and even solid materials like wood, metal. DTF is known for its broad usability because it can be applied to a wide range of fabrics.Advantages of DTF:
1. Ability to print on many fabrics: With DTF, a wide variety of fabrics can be used, including cotton and synthetic blends, making it usable on more materials compared to sublimation.2. Bright and detailed prints: Color reproduction with DTF is exceptional, and it can handle intricate designs accurately.
3. Longevity: DTF prints are extremely long-lasting, resisting multiple launderings without wearing down.
4. Simplicity in the process: DTF eliminates the need for fabric pre-treatment, making the process easier and less time-consuming for bulk orders.
Limitations of DTF:
1. Initial investment: DTF printing has a high startup cost due to specialized tools, which can make the upfront cost more expensive.2. Texture on garments: The DTF layer can create a noticeable layer and stiffer compared to sublimation.
What is Sublimation Printing?
Heat sublimation uses a heating process to transfer ink directly into polyester fabrics or specially coated surfaces. It works by converting dye into gas, which then merges with the fabric, creating a bright, seamless finish.Advantages of Sublimation:
1. Soft Feel: Since the ink becomes part of the fabric, the printed image leave no texture on the material.2. Brilliant, enduring prints: This method offers bright, high-quality prints that won’t fade or crack over time.
3. Economical for polyester items: It's an perfect method for polyester-based fabrics or items like personalized items like cups.
Limitations of Sublimation:
1. Material limitations: Sublimation is only compatible with polyester or specialized surfaces, making it not applicable to cotton fabrics.2. Requires Light Fabrics: Sublimation won't work well on dark fabrics since the ink integrates with the material, and darker fabrics obscure the design.
Conclusion:
DTF and sublimation both have their pros. If you're looking for versatility, DTF might be the better option. However, if you're planning to print mostly polyester-based materials and want a soft, natural feel, sublimation is a great option.Find out more on - sublistar dtf printer
Contact:
Sublistar
Address: Xinghe World, No. 56, lingzhi Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, Jiangsu
Phone: 86-15850596034, 86-25-86628894
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
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