General Questions About DTF Transfers & DTF Printing

DTF (Direct to Film) transfers are high-quality, full-color heat transfers that allow you to print vibrant designs on various fabrics, including cotton, polyester, and blends. They are durable, washable, and easy to apply with a heat press.

DTF printing is a process where designs are printed onto a special PET film using water-based inks, coated with adhesive powder, and then heat-pressed onto fabric. It offers vibrant, durable, and stretchable prints without the need for cutting or weeding.

✅ Works on cotton, polyester, blends, and more
✅ No weeding or cutting required
✅ Vibrant, full-color prints with high resolution
✅ Durable and can withstand 50+ washes
✅ Soft feel with stretchable properties
✅ Fast production & application

DTF transfers work on cotton, polyester, nylon, spandex, leather, blends, and more. Unlike sublimation, DTF printing does not require polyester-coated surfaces.

Yes! At RoyalDTF, you can upload your design, and we will print high-quality custom DTF transfers ready to press.

DTF Transfers: Works on all fabrics, no pre-treatment needed, vibrant colors, no weeding.

Sublimation: Only works on light-colored polyester, requires special coatings.

DTF transfers offer a cost-effective and faster alternative to screen printing for short runs and custom designs. Screen printing is better for bulk production but requires setup time and high order quantities.

Yes! DTF printing uses water-based inks, making it a more eco-friendly option than traditional plastisol screen printing.

For the best results, submit a PNG or PDF file with a transparent background at 300 DPI resolution, however you can use any other printable format.

Minimum order is 49 euros, thats because we cover half the shipping cost, if you want to make smaller order, contact us we can give you custom offer with the full shipping expense.

Yes! We offer wholesale DTF transfers with discounts on bulk orders. Contact us for pricing details.

We offer custom sizes based on your artwork. Standard sheet sizes is 100cm x 56cm.

Preheat your heat press to 150-160°C (300-320°F).

1. Pre-press the fabric for 5 seconds to remove moisture.
2. Place the DTF transfer on the fabric (design facing up).
3. Press for 1-5 seconds with high pressure.
4. Let the transfer cool down completely (cold peel).
5. Peel the film off slowly.
6. Final press for 5 seconds with parchment paper for durability.

A heat press is recommended for even heat and pressure. Using an iron may result in poor adhesion and durability.

Most DTF transfers are cold peel, meaning you should wait until the design cools completely before peeling the film.

No, DTF transfers are single-layer applications and should not be layered.

With proper application and care, DTF prints last 50+ washes without fading, cracking, or peeling.

This could be due to:
❌ Not enough pressure or heat during pressing
❌ Peeling the film too soon (cold peel required)
❌ Skipping the final press after peeling

Possible causes:

• Incorrect temperature or pressure
• Peeling the transfer film before cooling
• Skipping the final press

✅ Wash inside out
✅ Use cold water
✅ Avoid fabric softeners & bleach
✅ Tumble dry low or air dry
✅ Do not iron directly on the print

DTF transfers are permanent, but you can try a heat press and adhesive remover to fade the design.

Yes! We provide bulk pricing for print shops, clothing brands, and resellers. Contact us for wholesale DTF transfers.

Absolutely! DTF transfers are a great business opportunity for printing custom apparel, promotional merchandise, and on-demand t-shirt printing.

Yes! DTF printing machines use white ink, making them perfect for dark and light-colored garments.

Yes! You can use gang sheets to print multiple designs on a single PET film, maximizing efficiency and reducing waste.

Not enough heat or pressure during application

Low-quality DTF adhesive powder

Skipping the final press

UV DTF (Direct-to-Film) stickers are high-quality, durable, and self-adhesive decals printed using UV printing technology. Unlike regular vinyl stickers, they feature a strong adhesive layer that allows for easy transfer onto various surfaces without heat or special tools. The UV ink makes them waterproof, scratch-resistant, and UV-resistant, making them perfect for indoor and outdoor use.

• UV DTF stickers are printed using UV ink and have a strong adhesive backing, requiring only peel and press application.
• Regular DTF transfers require heat pressing onto fabrics, making them ideal for textiles but not hard surfaces.

UV DTF stickers are better suited for hard surfaces like glass, metal, plastic, and wood.

UV DTF transfers work on a variety of smooth, hard surfaces, including:
✔️ Glass (tumblers, windows, mugs)
✔️ Metal (laptops, car decals, tools)
✔️ Plastic (phone cases, bottles, packaging)
✔️ Wood (furniture, decor)
✔️ Ceramics (tiles, plates, coffee mugs)

They are not suitable for fabric, silicone, rubber, or textured surfaces.

Yes! UV DTF stickers are 100% waterproof, weatherproof, and scratch-resistant. They can withstand rain, sun exposure, and washing, making them ideal for outdoor applications, drinkware, and car decals.

UV DTF transfers can last 3-5 years outdoors and even longer indoors, depending on exposure to weather, friction, and chemicals.

Applying UV DTF transfers is simple:

1. Clean the surface to remove dust or oil.
2. Peel off the backing from the sticker.
3. Press the sticker onto the surface and smooth out any bubbles.
4. Gently peel off the transfer film, leaving the design in place.

No heat or extra adhesive is required!

Yes, UV DTF stickers can conform to slight curves like on tumblers, bottles, and phone cases. However, for very textured or extreme curved surfaces, adhesion may be less effective.

Yes! UV DTF transfers can be removed by gently peeling them off. To make removal easier, apply heat (hairdryer) or use rubbing alcohol to loosen the adhesive. They do not leave residue or damage most surfaces.

Absolutely! We offer custom UV DTF sticker printing for logos, branding, product labels, and promotional decals. You can upload your design, and we will print it with high-quality UV ink.

For best results, submit your artwork in PNG, SVG, AI, or PDF format with a transparent background and high resolution (300 DPI or higher).

Yes! Our UV DTF transfers include a white ink backing to ensure vibrant colors on both light and dark surfaces.

Yes! Businesses use UV DTF stickers for logo decals, product packaging, promotional giveaways, custom branding, and labeling. They are great for bottles, laptops, and retail items.

Yes, UV DTF transfers are dishwasher-safe and waterproof, making them perfect for custom drinkware, water bottles, coffee mugs, and tumblers.

Yes! UV DTF stickers are UV-resistant and weatherproof, making them suitable for car decals, bike graphics, outdoor signage, and hard hats.

Yes, UV DTF stickers use non-toxic, eco-friendly inks, making them safe for food packaging, jars, and kitchenware.

You can clean UV DTF decals using mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing.

Yes! UV DTF transfers are dishwasher-safe and heat-resistant, making them ideal for mugs and tumblers.

No, UV DTF stickers are fade-resistant and scratch-proof. They maintain their vibrancy and adhesion for years with proper care.

You can place bulk orders for custom or pre-designed UV DTF stickers. We offer wholesale discounts for large quantities.

Yes! We provide discounted pricing for bulk orders. Contact us for wholesale rates.

Production time is typically 1 business days, with 1-2 shipping days across Europe.

Shipping costs depend on order size. We offer flat-rate express shipping across Europe.

A DTF printer (Direct to Film printer) is a specialized printing machine that prints high-quality designs onto a PET film, which is then transferred onto fabric using heat and adhesive powder. DTF printing machines offer vibrant, durable prints and work on various fabrics like cotton, polyester, blends, and more.

A DTF printer prints a design onto a special PET film using CMYK + White ink. The design is then coated with DTF powder adhesive, cured with heat, and pressed onto fabric using a heat press.

✅ Print on any fabric – Cotton, Polyester, Blends, Nylon, etc.
✅ No cutting or weeding required
✅ Vibrant full-color prints with high resolution
✅ Soft, stretchable, and durable transfers
✅ No pre-treatment needed (unlike DTG printing)
✅ Works with small and bulk orders

DTF Printer: Uses PET film, applies adhesive powder, and heat transfers the design. Works on all fabrics without pre-treatment.

DTG Printer: Prints directly onto cotton garments and requires pre-treatment for dark fabrics.

✅ A DTF printer
✅ DTF film & powder
✅ A heat press
✅ Design software (Photoshop, Illustrator)
✅ Quality artwork & designs

Yes, DTF RIP software is required to print CMYK + White ink layers correctly. Common software includes Acrorip, Kothari, FlexiPrint or CADlink.

For small businesses or beginners, an A3 DTF printer is ideal. Brands like Epson L1800 DTF, XP-600 DTF printers, and R1390 DTF printers are popular entry-level choices.

For high-volume production, consider A3+ or A2 DTF printers with a dual printhead (i3200 or XP600) for faster printing. Some top choices are:

• Epson i3200 DTF Printer
• XP600 DTF Printing Machine
• DX5/DX7 High-Speed DTF Printers

A4/A3 DTF printers – Great for small businesses, custom prints, and hobbyists.

A3+ / A2 DTF printers – Best for medium-volume printing.

Large format DTF printers (24”/60cm, 32”/80cm) – Ideal for bulk DTF transfer printing.

The cost of a DTF printer varies:

• A4/A3 DTF Printers: 1000€ - 2,000€
• A3+ / A2 Professional DTF Machines: €2,000 - €7,000
• Large Format DTF Printers: €12,000+

DTF printers use DTF pigment inks (CMYK + White) that are designed to print high-resolution, durable designs. These inks provide soft, stretchable prints with excellent wash durability.

You can purchase DTF printers online from authorized dealers, printing suppliers, or marketplaces like Alibaba, Amazon, and eBay. Always buy from reputable sellers to ensure genuine DTF machines and inks.

Install DTF RIP software on your computer.

Fill ink tanks with CMYK + White DTF ink.

Load PET film into the printer.

Perform printhead alignment and test print.

Start printing your DTF transfers!

✅ Shake white ink daily to prevent clogging
✅ Run nozzle check before printing
✅ Clean the printhead and capping station weekly
✅ Store inks in a cool, dry place
✅ Use high-quality DTF inks and films to avoid print issues

Perform a daily nozzle check and weekly printhead cleaning to prevent clogging and ensure smooth ink flow.

Clogged printhead – Perform a nozzle check and cleaning.

Low-quality DTF film or ink – Use premium materials.

Incorrect RIP settings – Adjust DPI and color balance.

Yes, some Epson EcoTank printers (L1800, L805) can be modified for DTF printing, but a professional DTF printer is recommended for high-quality results.

Print your design onto PET film using DTF ink.

Apply DTF adhesive powder evenly on the print.

Cure the powder using an oven or heat press (160°C for 2 minutes).

Press the DTF transfer onto fabric at 150-160°C for 10-15 seconds.

Peel cold and final press for durability.

Check printhead alignment

Use high-resolution images (300 DPI)

Adjust ink flow and RIP software settings

Shake the white ink daily

Perform nozzle check & cleaning

Ensure white ink lines are not clogged

A UV DTF (Direct-to-Film) printer is a specialized printing machine that uses UV-curable ink to create vibrant, durable, and waterproof prints on a transparent film. The design is then transferred onto various hard surfaces using an adhesive film, without the need for heat pressing.

UV DTF printing is ideal for custom stickers, product labels, drinkware, phone cases, glass, metal, and wood.

• UV DTF Printing: Prints onto a film that is later transferred to a surface using adhesive. No direct printing on objects is required.
• Regular UV Printing: Prints directly onto objects but requires specialized flatbed UV printers for each material.

UV DTF is more versatile and can be applied to multiple surfaces without needing a different machine for each material.

✔ No heat press required – just peel, press, and stick.
✔ Applies to almost any surface – glass, metal, plastic, wood, and ceramics.
✔ Waterproof & UV-resistant – ideal for outdoor use and dishwashers.
✔ Cost-effective – produces high-quality transfers with minimal waste.
✔ Fast production – prints instantly dry and ready for transfer.

A UV DTF printer creates transfers that can be applied to:
✔ Glass & acrylic (tumblers, mugs, windows)
✔ Metal (laptops, car decals, signage)
✔ Plastic (phone cases, packaging, bottles)
✔ Wood & ceramics (decor, furniture, kitchenware)

Print the design onto a special A-film using UV ink.

Apply the adhesive B-film to create a transfer.

Peel off the backing and apply the sticker to the surface.

Press and remove the top film, leaving a vibrant, waterproof print.

UV DTF printers use UV-curable inks, which dry instantly under UV LED light exposure. This ensures sharp details, strong adhesion, and long-lasting durability.

No! Unlike traditional DTF or sublimation printing, UV DTF does not need heat pressing. The self-adhesive transfer film allows easy peel-and-stick application.

Yes! A UV DTF printer uses CMYK + White ink to ensure vibrant colors on both light and dark surfaces.

Yes! UV DTF printing uses low-VOC, eco-friendly UV inks, reducing waste and harmful emissions compared to solvent-based printing.

Most high-quality UV DTF printers support 1200 DPI or higher, delivering sharp, high-resolution prints.

UV DTF printing is used for:
✔ Custom logo stickers for branding and businesses.
✔ Waterproof labels for drinkware, cosmetics, and packaging.
✔ Car decals and signage for outdoor durability.
✔ Personalized gifts such as phone cases, tumblers, and keychains.

Yes! UV DTF prints can adhere to slightly curved surfaces, such as bottles, tumblers, and cups.

Yes! Once applied, UV DTF prints are waterproof, scratch-resistant, and heat-resistant, making them safe for dishwashers and daily use.

UV DTF prints can last 3-5 years outdoors and even longer indoors without fading, peeling, or cracking.

Yes! To remove UV DTF transfers, apply heat (hairdryer) or rubbing alcohol to loosen the adhesive. They do not leave residue or damage most surfaces.

✔ Regularly clean the printheads to prevent clogs.
✔ Use high-quality UV inks to avoid print defects.
✔ Keep the printer in a dust-free environment for best results.
✔ Store UV inks properly to prevent drying out.

Common reasons and solutions:
❌ Dirty surface? → Clean the surface with alcohol before applying.
❌ Wrong pressure? → Press firmly when transferring the sticker.
❌ Film not peeling correctly? → Let the print fully cure before peeling.

Run a printhead cleaning cycle or use a cleaning solution to unclog nozzles.

Most UV inks last 6-12 months after opening. Always check the expiration date and shake the ink before use.

It’s recommended to use manufacturer-approved ink to prevent clogging and ensure print quality.

UV DTF printers range from $3,000 to $15,000, depending on size, print resolution, and features.

✔ Print size – Choose based on your project needs.
✔ Ink compatibility – Ensure support for CMYK + White ink.
✔ Maintenance requirements – Opt for easy-to-maintain models.
✔ Software support – Look for RIP software for color management.

You can buy UV DTF printers from authorized dealers, printing suppliers, and online stores. Always check for warranty and after-sales support.