Direct-to-film (DTF) printing is a heat-transfer process that involves printing a design onto a special film and then transferring it to another material. The film is coated to help transfer the design, and the process uses water-based inks and an adhesive powder. The design is then heat-transferred to the material using a heat press machine.

Compared to other printing methods like DTG (direct-to-garment) that mostly work on cotton, DTF printing shines on a wider range of fabrics. This includes Cotton, Polyester, Nylon, Treated leather, 50/50 blends, Glass, Acrylic, and even Wood!

DTF allows for vibrant designs, is durable, and works well on difficult-to-print areas of garments like pockets or sleeves. It's also considered cost-effective for small printing runs.

DTF prints typically last a long time with proper care. These prints are durable and can withstand regular washing without fading, peeling, or cracking, ensuring your designs stay vibrant for a long time.

Keeping your DTF printed T-shirts vibrant and crack-free requires some special care. Here are some key points to remember:

Washing:

• Turn it inside out: Wash the T-shirt inside out to protect the design from friction against other clothes.
• Cold water: Use cold water to prevent colors from fading.
• Mild detergent: Opt for a gentle, color-safe detergent. Harsh detergents can damage the print.
• Gentle cycle: Choose a delicate or gentle cycle on your washing machine.
• Skip the softener: Fabric softeners can reduce the adhesive properties of the DTF transfer.
• Handwashing is okay: If preferred, you can hand-wash your DTF T-shirt for an even gentler clean.

Drying:

• Air drying is best: Air drying your T-shirt inside out is the recommended method to avoid heat damage.
• Low heat tumble drying (optional): If you must use a dryer, keep it on a low heat setting to minimize shrinkage and cracking.
• Avoid direct sunlight: Don't let your T-shirt dry in direct sunlight, as UV rays can cause fading.

General Care:

• Ironing with caution: If ironing is necessary, use the lowest heat setting and iron inside out, placing a cloth between the iron and the print.
• Store properly: Store your DTF T-shirts folded in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid plastic bags that trap moisture. Breathable garment bags or cotton pillowcases are better options.

By following these simple tips, you can extend the life of your DTF printed T-shirts and keep them looking their best for a long time.

We offer DTF designs in many sizes however, the most popular sizes range from 2"x2" all the way up to 12"x17".

• Hat designs we suggest the size to be no larger than 4" x 2.25". This size will cover the entire front of the hat.

• Women's tops we suggest approximately 9" x 9". We find this size works best for all sizes. This size could be applied to the full front or back of the shirt.

• Men's tops we suggest 11" x 11". We find this size works best for all sizes. This size could be applied to the full front or back of the shirt.

• For DTF designs that are applied to the left or right chest area of a shirt, we recommend keeping the design around 4" x 4". However, sizes can range from 2.5"-4.5" width, 2.5"-4.5" height.

• For locker (between the shoulders) or on short sleeves, we recommend designs under 3".

Sure! Please contact us via our contact form or send us a message on Facebook!

Basic design service is any design that our designers can complete in less than 60 minutes with client approvals. Design time exceeding 60 minutes will incur a fee of $35.00 per hour.

We exclusively use Durra‑Bull Adhesive from LoneStar Adhesive Co. It’s a premium, U.S.-made, heat-activated bonding solution engineered for high-performance materials like leather, leatherette, acrylic, wood veneer, PVC, and fabric. When heat and pressure are applied, it forms a liquid bond that permanently fuses the patch to the hat — no peeling, no lifting, no nonsense.

Our patches themselves are also made using LoneStar’s top-tier acrylic and premium leatherette, so every piece is built to last and look good doing it — rain, shine, sweat, or snow.

#backedbythebest #lonestaradhesive