How to Make DTF Transfers with Inkjet Printer?

DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing is a trendy technique that allows for direct transfer of the design to apparel, but DTF printers can be inaccessible for many. Therefore, some DIY fans are seeking potential alternatives, like inkjet printers.

Since lots of people are wondering whether DTF transfers can be made without DTF printers, this article comes to help. Know-hows about how to make DTF transfers with inkjet printers will be provided. Take a look!

Materials Needed

DTF Film

For smooth transfer, you'll need a proper film that serves as the medium. The best DTF films are made from polyethylene with special coatings that help ink stick well. They are also called PET films.

Inkjet Printer

Select one inkjet printer to print your design. As DTF transfers are less compatible with inkjet printers, it's vital to ensure the printer is equipped with high-quality pigment inks, as these can provide the optimal adhesion and color vibrancy.

DTF Ink

Perfect printing results with the best adhesion effect require good ink. DTF ink is specially dedicated to DTF printing, and the most welcomed one is CMYK+W ink, which uses white ink as the basic color that constitutes the background of the film. 

DTF Adhesive Powder

This powder adheres to the ink and ensures the design sticks to the fabric. After DTF printing, adhesive hot melt powder will be applied to the entire DTF film by hand or powder shaker. This creates a vibrant and durable print with excellent adhesion.

TPU powder is the most common one for apparel printing due to its elasticity and flexibility.

Heat Press

It's necessary for transferring the design onto the fabric. If you are a new comer, try to choose all-in-one heat press for best convenience.

xTool Heat Press Machine is versatile for HTV, Sublimation, and DTF Transfers. This handy and home-friendly tool can produce flawless transfers under precise control.

Step-by-step Guidance

Step 1: Setting up the Design

Before printing, choose one favorite design and complete all the settings.

©Design Bundles - YouTube.com

Step 2: Preparing the Printer

• Check the compatibility of your printer with DTF film, as not all printers can handle it.
• Replace your standard ink cartridges with DTF ink cartridges.
• Access your printer settings, and adjust settings like "print quality" and "paper type". Calibrate your printer to ensure accurate color reproduction and print alignment.

Step 3: Printing and Powdering

Load the DTF film into your inkjet printer, ensuring that the matt side is facing up. Print the design via inkjet printer.

Then evenly powder the film by hand. You can apply powder more than once to ensure optimal transferring results.

Step 4: Heat Pressing

Use a heat press machine to apply heat evenly to the film.

Step 5: Peeling off the Film

Wait for the film to cool down, and then peel off the film carefully.

Now, the apparel printing is done!

Tips

While creating DTF transfers with an inkjet printer is possible, it requires careful attention to detail, the right materials, and proper technique. If you’re new to DTF, consider starting with a pre-configured DTF printer or kit to minimize these challenges. 

If you feel interested, a new comer within the industry, xTool Apparel Printer, is worth trying. The one-click automated print-to-bake process means anyone can create preferred prints with ease. The Apparel Printer can also print stunning designs with high precision on fabrics of different kinds, empowered by AI-based system.