DTF Printing
Direct-to-film (DTF) Printing
DTF is one of the fastest-growing print methods for a reason: it combines the full-colour detail of DTG with the durability and fabric versatility of screen printing. Elusiv runs DTF production at scale on the very latest and premium DTF machines, making it a strong option for brands needing vivid, durable prints across mixed fabric types and order sizes.
Why Choose DTG
No minimum order
Print one unit or one thousand, without setup cost per colour
DIY / Print-at-home
We can supply you films on a 24 hour delivery, ready for you to press your own garments from your home or office.
Works on almost any fabric
Cotton, polyester, blends, even some non-textile surfaces
Vivid, durable colour
Strong wash durability and colour vibrancy, including on dark garments without pre-treatment
Scales from small to large runs
Cost-effective at low minimums, and efficient at high volume
Fast Production
No screens, no pre-treatment required, keeping lead times short
What We DTF Print on
T-shirts, hoodies, sportswear, polyester performance fabrics, and mixed-fabric garments - including items DTG and screen printing can't always handle well.
Our Process
1. Artwork check
File reviewed for resolution and colour accuracy.
2. Print to film
Design printed onto DTF film with adhesive powder applied.
3. Curing
Film cured ready for heat-transfer.
4. Heat Transfer
Pressed onto the garment at temperature and pressure.
5. QC & dispatch/fulfilment
Checked and moved into packing or fulfilment.
File
Submission
Guide
File types:
Vector PDFs print the cleanest. PNG's are also accepted. Send your artwork pre-sized as a scalable vector, and add 1% Yellow to any white areas of artwork (contact us for any questions of further guidance)
Resolution:
Minimum 300dpi at actual print size - low-res web images will print blurry or pixelated
Colour mode:
RGB. (CMYK Preferred)
Background:
Transparent background is essential. No outer glows, shadows or blurs (these will not print well - think block colours and sharp edges)
Fine Detail/Text.
Very thin lines or small text can be printed, but let us know if precise placement matters so we can advise on minimum size
Got a design that's been rejected by another print method for being "too detailed" or "too many colours"? DTF is often the best fit - full colour and fine detail aren't a problem.
FAQs
Is there a minimum order for DTF?
No — DTF is well suited to single units and small batches, as well as larger print-on-demand operations.
Does DTF work on polyester/sportswear?
Yes — DTF is one of the few methods that performs reliably on polyester and performance fabrics, where DTG typically can't be used.
How durable is a DTF print compared to screen printing?
DTF is designed to be highly durable and wash-resistant, comparable to screen printing in day-to-day wear.
Let’s start your order...
Get in touch so we can start building together.
