Transitioning to DTF with Kevin Oakley

In the ever-evolving world of printing, a new technology has emerged that is revolutionizing the industry—Direct to Film (DTF) printing. This innovative method is transforming how businesses approach printing on various materials, offering numerous advantages over traditional techniques. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating journey of DTF printing, exploring its benefits, the technology behind it, and its impact on the industry.



Table of Contents

What is DTF Printing?


DTF printing, or Direct to Film printing, is a process that involves printing designs onto a special film, which is then transferred onto fabric or other substrates using heat and pressure. Unlike Direct to Garment (DTG) printing, which applies ink directly onto the fabric, DTF printing offers greater versatility and efficiency.

As Kevin Oakley, co-founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Stoked on Printing, explains, "DTF printing allows us to print on a wide range of materials, including cotton, polyester, silk, and even synthetic fibers like rayon or terrycot, making it a versatile choice for various applications."

The Journey from DTG to DTF


Stoked on Printing, a company based in Las Vegas, started its journey in 2011 with screen printing and later expanded into embroidery and DTG printing. However, the high consumable and time costs associated with DTG printing led them to explore more sustainable options. This is where DTF printing came into play.

Kevin shares, "We saw a significant push for e-commerce around 2018-2019, with platforms like Shopify leading the charge. However, the cost per piece for DTG printing became unsustainable. This prompted us to pivot towards DTF printing, which offered a more cost-effective solution without compromising on quality."

Advantages of DTF Printing


DTF printing offers several benefits that make it a preferred choice for businesses:

  • Versatility on Materials: DTF can be applied to a wide range of materials, including cotton, nylon, treated leather, polyester, and 50/50 blends, both light and dark fabrics.
  • Cost-Effective: DTF printing can save up to 50% on white ink and does not require pretreating garments, reducing overall costs.
  • High-Quality Prints: DTF prints are known for their vibrant colors, high stretchability, and soft hand feel. They also offer excellent washability and durability, making them ideal for various applications.
  • Easy Application: DTF allows for easy application of artwork on difficult or awkward parts of garments, enhancing design flexibility.

The DTF Printing Process


The DTF printing process is relatively straightforward, involving the following steps:

  • Printing on Film: The design is printed onto a PET film using a DTF printer. These printers are typically modified inkjet printers with six ink channels (CMYK+White).
  • Applying Adhesive Powder: A special DTF powder is applied to the printed film, acting as a glue that binds the ink to the fabric.
  • Curing the Film: The film is then cured using a heat press or curing oven to ensure the adhesive powder melts and bonds with the ink.
  • Transferring the Design: The cured film is placed onto the fabric, and heat and pressure are applied using a heat press to transfer the design onto the fabric.

Building a Successful DTF Printing Business


Stoked on Printing's transition to DTF printing was not without its challenges. Kevin emphasizes the importance of understanding your customer base and leveraging existing relationships to introduce new services. "If I could go back in time, I would have focused on selling DTF printing to our current customers instead of trying to attract a new set of customers. This approach would have been less disruptive and more efficient," he advises.

Creating a Safe Printing Environment


Safety is paramount in any printing environment. Kevin highlights the importance of maintaining a clean and well-ventilated workspace, especially when dealing with DTF powders. "Creating a clean environment not only ensures the longevity of your machines but also contributes to the safety and well-being of your employees," he notes.

The Future of DTF Printing


The future of DTF printing looks promising, with continuous advancements in technology and increasing adoption across various industries. Kevin is optimistic about the potential of DTF printing, stating, "We are excited to see how new companies and technologies will further enhance the DTF printing process. As the technology evolves, we will be well-positioned to leverage these advancements and continue providing high-quality printing solutions to our customers."

Conclusion


DTF printing is undoubtedly a game-changer in the printing industry, offering unparalleled versatility, cost-effectiveness, and quality. For businesses looking to expand their printing capabilities, DTF printing presents an excellent opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and meet the evolving demands of their customers.

As Kevin Oakley aptly puts it, "DTF is definitely here to stay. It's an exciting time for the industry, and we are thrilled to be part of this transformative journey."

By embracing DTF printing, businesses can unlock new possibilities, streamline their operations, and deliver exceptional products that stand out in the market. Whether you're a seasoned printing professional or just starting, DTF printing is a technology worth exploring for its myriad benefits and potential to revolutionize your business.

 

For more information about DTF printing techniques, visit our blog where we cover the proper steps in detail.

 

You'll also find a comprehensive guide on how to properly use a Heat Press, including the correct way to Heat Press DTF transfers.

 

Additionally, we help you understand the difference between various Peel techniques, so you can choose the best one for your needs. Discover more about these Peel methods and their advantages on our blog.


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