DTF transfer printing

DTF stands for "Direct to Film" and refers to a special type of transfer printing. DTF transfer printing is a digital printing process in which the design is printed directly onto a special transfer film. The design is then transferred from the film to the textile.

• The desired design is created on the computer and prepared for printing.
• The design is printed onto a special transfer film using special DTF printers. A special ink is used to ensure good adhesion to the film.
• After the design has been printed on the transfer film, the print is cured. This is usually done using heat and UV light to dry and fix the ink.
• The printed transfer film is placed on the textile and fixed with heat and pressure. The combination of heat and pressure enables the ink to transfer from the transfer film to the textile and adhere there permanently.

DTF transfer printing offers various advantages. It enables the printing of high-resolution designs with fine details and color gradients. There are no restrictions on the number of colors or the complexity of the design. DTF transfer printing can also be used on a wide range of textiles, including cotton, polyester, blended fabrics and other materials.
The surface of DTF transfer printing can vary depending on the print quality and materials used. As a rule, the result is a smooth and flexible surface that is pleasant to the touch. The print may have a slight relief, especially for designs with a white underlay to intensify the colors.

DTF transfer printing is a relatively new technology and is becoming increasingly popular due to its versatility and ability to produce high quality, detailed prints on a variety of textiles.

Sublimation printing

• The desired design is printed on a special transfer paper with sublimation-capable ink.
• The printed transfer paper is placed closely together with the material to be printed, usually polyester or a polymer-coated material.
• The combination of heat and pressure is exerted on the transfer paper and the material. This causes the dyes on the transfer paper to change into a gaseous state.
• As the material has an open porous structure, the gaseous dyes can penetrate the fibers. As soon as the heat is removed, the dyes condense back into the solid state and are now permanently in the fibers.
• enclosed in the fibers of the material.

The end product has a high level of color brilliance and durability, as the color is embedded in the material and not on the surface. Sublimation printing is often used for textiles such as sportswear, T-shirts, flags, banners, but also for other products such as mugs, cell phone cases and mouse pads. Sublimation printing only works on materials that have a special coating for the dye absorption process. The process is therefore mainly suitable for polyester and certain polymer-coated materials.
Sublimation printing does not lead to a noticeable increase in the surface area of the material, as the dyes penetrate directly into the material. This means that the end product retains a smooth texture, which is particularly beneficial for textiles as there are no distracting layers on the surface. Sublimation printing enables a high resolution and therefore a detailed and photorealistic representation of the design. This is particularly important when fine details or complex patterns are to be printed. Overall, sublimation printing offers a high-quality, durable and photorealistic look that is particularly suitable for certain applications such as sportswear, promotional items and personalized gifts.

Flex printing

Flex printing is a method of textile printing in which special, flexible polyurethane films are used.
Flex printing is carried out in several steps:

• First, the desired design is created on a computer and converted into a vector format.
• The polyurethane film is then cut into the shape of the design using a cutting plotter. The superfluous parts of the film are removed so that only the actual motif remains.
• The prepared film is then placed on the textile and transferred to the fabric using heat and pressure.
• When applied, the film melts together with the fabric. This creates a smooth, slightly rubbery surface that is firm to the touch.

Flex printing offers several advantages. It enables the creation of detailed designs with clear lines and sharp edges. The colors are usually bright and durable. The print is hard-wearing and can last a long time with proper care. Flex printing is particularly suitable for monochrome designs or designs with few colors.
It is important to note that flex printing is not suitable for all textiles. It works best on smooth surfaces such as cotton or polyester fabrics. Flex printing may not adhere wellto coarse or highly textured fabrics.
Flex printing is often used for personalized t-shirts, sportswear, workwear and other textiles where a durable and detailed design is desired.

Flock printing

• First, the desired design is created on a computer and converted into a vector format.
• The flock film is then applied to the backing material in the desired color. The excess parts of the film are removed so that only the actual motif remains.
• The prepared flock film is placed on the textile and transferred using heat and pressure.
• The heat causes the adhesive on the back of the flock film to melt and adhere to the fabric.