Ultimate Guide to DTF Powder: What Is DTF Powder & How to Use It?
As a trendy printing technique, DTF (Direct-to-Film) has become increasingly welcomed by many DIY lovers. This printing process can deal with complex designs and allows for direct transfer of design from DTF film to the apparel. However, DTF printing requires various supplies, and one of which, DTF powder, may sound unfamiliar to many new comers.
This guide will dig deep into what is DTF powder and offer instructions about how to use the powder during DTF printing. If you are a big fan of DTF printing, this article can definitely help you a lot!
In This Article
- What Is DTF Powder?
- How to Use DTF Powder?
- FAQs
What Is DTF Powder?
DTF (Direct-to-Film) powder, also known as DTF adhesive powder, is a crucial component in the DTF printing process. It acts as a binding agent that allows the printed design to adhere securely to fabric when heat pressed. The powder is thermally activated, and melts and bonds when exposed to heat, ensuring a strong and flexible attachment to the material.
Types of DTF Powder
There are three main types of DTF powder on the market.
TPU
TPU stands for Thermoplastic Polyurethane. It is a type of hot melt adhesive powder used in DTF printing. TPU is commonly used as the base material for DTF powders. When applied to printed films, it helps the ink adhere to the fabric while providing elasticity and durability to the printed design. This ensures that the printed design doesn't crack easily and can stretch with the fabric.
Its flexibility, durability, and resistance to abrasion, make it ideal for applications in textile printing, especially for stretchable fabrics like sportswear, activewear, and other similar garments.
PES
PES powders are also used in DTF printing. PES offers a more rigid finish compared to TPU, making it suitable for certain applications that demand higher durability but might compromise a bit on elasticity. Polyester powders offer excellent wash resistance and longevity.
It is ideal for prints on polyester fabrics. It provides excellent color vibrancy and adhesion, making it a popular choice for clothing and other polyester-based items. If you are a fan of polyester garments, this would definitely be your top choice.
PA (polyamide)
Polyamides, often referred to as nylon, are synthetic polymers that enjoy wide applications due to their strength, flexibility, and durability. PA powders in DTF strike a balance between elasticity and durability. They help in ensuring that the printed design adheres well to the fabric while also offering good stretchability. Although less popular than TPU, PA powders are ideal for applying to prints requiring better resistance to wear.
Key Advantages
Flexibility and Elasticity
TPU-based DTF powders are particularly valued for their stretchability, making them ideal for applications on garments that need to move and stretch, such as sportswear.
Durability
DTF powders create a bond that is highly resistant to washing, abrasion, and environmental wear, ensuring the printed designs can last long.
Versatility
DTF powders work on a wide range of materials, including cotton, polyester, blends, and more. This versatility makes it suitable for different garment types, from t-shirts and hoodies to bags and caps.
Super Adhesive and Glossy
DTF powder provides high quality adhesion and glossy finish to the printed design.
Minimal Post-Processing
DTF powder requires little to no additional post-processing after heat transfer, saving time and reducing the need for additional labor or equipment.
Ease of Application
DTF powder is simple to use in the printing process. It can be evenly applied to the printed film manually or with automated equipment, and it cures quickly. This ease of use makes it accessible for both small-scale and large-scale printing operations.
How to Use DTF Powder?
Tools Needed
DTF Printer
A DTF printer is a must for DTF printing, and DTF printers vary greatly based on their functions, nozzle sizes, printing precision, etc.
xTool Apparel Printer, a new comer within the industry, emeges with technological breakthroughs, bringing along excellent DTF printing experience. With just one click, you'll see the design printed on the film, covered with powder, sent to the oven and then transferred to the item smoothly. Guaranteed color accuracy and diversity it offers creates stunning printing results.
DTF 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. Such inks come in both water-based and solvent-based options.
DTF Film
The design will be printed via the printer onto DTF film. The best DTF films are made from polyethylene with special coatings that help ink stick well. They are also called PET films. These films make durable transfers with bright colors, and can bond strongly to fabrics.
DTF Powder
As we've mentioned, there are mainly three types of DTF powder in the market. Among them, TPU powder is the most recommended one, and it boasts good compatibility with xTool Apparel Printer.
Curing Oven
Normally, the printed film will be sent to the curing oven for baking. This step allows for melting the DTF adhesive powder and assists optimal transfer adhesion.
If you feel bothered to find a curing oven and want to save production time, then look at this: the duo of xTool Apparel Printer and xTool OS1 Shaker Oven Machine! They can work together seemlessly and complete print-to-bake process within just one click. Stunning prints are done with ease under the assistance of the two.
Heat Press
You'll need a heat press to apply even heat to the film and the fabric. A quality heat press is essential for perfect printing adhesion and durability. Try xTool Heat Press Machine, which is versatile for HTV, Sublimation, and DTF Transfers, and can produce flawless prints under precise control.
Using Guidance
Step 1: Print the design via a DTF printer.
Step 2: Powder the film.
This step can be done by hand or via the powder shaker.
Manual operation:
Distribute the DTF powder onto the printed film while the ink is still wet, making sure to spread the powder evenly. Then shake off the excess powder by hand carefully.
For optimal powdering effects, you can repeat this step more than once.
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Machinery operation:
You don't have to do anything, simply send the film to a powder shaker and wait for the powdering to be done automatically.
Step 3: Bake the film.
Step 4: Apply heat to the film.
Step 5: Peel off the film, and the whole printing process is done!
FAQs
Can DTF Powder Be Reused?
Yes, excess DTF powder that hasn't adhered to the wet ink can be collected and reused, provided it is clean and free of contaminants.
Is DTF Powder Safe to Use?
Yes, most DTF powders are non-toxic and meet safety standards for garment applications. However, always check product specifications and safety data sheets to ensure compliance, especially if producing clothing for children or sensitive users.
Can I Use Any DTF Powder with Any Printer?
Not exactly. While most DTF powders are compatible with standard DTF inks and printers, it's always best to use powder recommended by your printer or film manufacturer for optimal results.
What Temperature Does DTF Powder Melt at?
DTF powder typically melts at a temperature range of 100–140°C (212–284°F), depending on the specific type and formulation. As per the melting temperature, DTF powders can be classified into three types: low-temperature, standard and high-temperature. If you're unsure about which one suits best with your DTF printer, just resort to the printer manufacturer's instructions.
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