Is DTF printing better than sublimation?
Apparel printing is an ever-evolving industry that evolves with technology. Different types of printers, different types of inks, and different methods of transferring images to garments are all key factors that affect product quality and productivity.
The 2 main types of garment printing are DTF transfer (Direct to Film) and Dye Sublimation printing. The comparison helps you understand the differences between them so you can choose the type that best suits your business needs.
Somebody wants to know which one is best,so we need to know their difference at first.
1.DTF -Direct to film
Direct to film, or film to garment printing, involves printing the image onto a film first, then transferring the image from the film to the fabric. DTF printing does not require any pretreatment of the fabric, but it does require a powder to be applied after the image is transferred onto the film to prevent the ink from running or streaking. This is a solution so versatile that gives you bright colors and is premium coated.You can print on any material (Cotton, Polyester, leather, Canvas, T-shirts, pillows, caps , gloves, sneakers, phone cases etc).
dtf-transfer-film
The print side of DTF Film is coated matte,and it looks opaque white.The backside is non-coated matte,is clear glossy,and easy to identify.But when you use it, you need prepare the DTF printer, DTF film, powder and ink.
dtf-printer
2. Sublimation technology
Sublimation printing uses a unique process different from DTF. Unlike printing liquid inks onto fabrics or films, solid ink substances go directly from solid to gas instead of liquid. The image is printed on sublimation transfer paper and then transferred to fabric. The ink is heated until it is fully incorporated into the fibers of the fabric. But it can only used for light color polyester fabric.
sublimation printing on fabric
3.Consider their differences through the following points:
It used for different fabric color. Sublimation printing works better on light-colored fabrics because of the way the ink is incorporated into the fibers. To print on black or dark colors, DTF is a better printing method.Different types of fabrics. DTF printing works on any type of fabric, while sublimation works best on polyester.
Order size is also a factor to consider. If you have a rush order, you might want to try DTF or sublimation.
4.The last point is the texture of the final product
DTF feels smoother and more plastic when the ink is combined with the fabric. Sublimation printed images feel the same as the rest of the fabric. If you close your eyes and feel the dress, you won’t know it’s there.
Therefore, we cannot directly answer whether the sublimation technology is better or the DTF technology is better. It’s totally 2 different techniques, and they also work with different fabrics. Of course, the effect after transfer is also different. Therefore, there is no question of whether it is good or not, but more of a question of whether it is suitable or not. But I believe that you can always find a product that suits you.
dtf printing on tshirt
VISION is a sublimation paper factory and DTF printing manufacturer, so for the two digital printing products, both are produced by our factory. If you need free samples, please contact us immediately, thank you.
