Direct-to-film (DTF) transfer has become a popular alternative to modern dye-sublimation due to its ability to produce detail-rich designs with bright color properties on various surfaces. One crucial way to assess the quality of dtf transfers is their ability to withstand washing on various fabrics.
Understanding DTF Transfers
DTF (Direct to Film) transfers are where you print your designs on a special film and heat press it onto a substrate using DTF ink. The procedure establishes a strong connection between the ink and fabric, resulting in high-quality, long-lasting layouts. However, the durability of these transfers varies depending on the type of fabric used.
Durability on Cotton
The best-received fabric for DTF is naturally cotton, which performs quite admirably overall. As for cotton fabrics, DTF are long-lasting and will not fade or peel off after dozens of washes. Opt for this method and then reverse washing of cotton with cold water to prevent the fabric from abrasion, meaning shortening their life. This will eliminate the transfer’s peeling and fading.
Durability on Polyester
Polyester Like mentioned earlier, polyester is also suitable for the dye sublimation polyester works differently compared to a regular fabric. Due to polyester DTF transfers being washable, able to be laundered several times without fading; typically poly sports and active wear the most suffer these use cases more than not. It transfers onto polyester nicely, but it must be the proper heat to avoid melting or warping
Durability on Blends
The transfers have a spotty track record with cotton-polyester mix fabrics. Although these fiber blends are generally more durable, the exact strength can vary depending on the amount of bamboo added. For most transfers, cotton-polyester blends typically present fewer issues with transfer quality, although the fabric composition and heat press settings may somewhat alter the life span of some.
Specialty Fabrics Durability
DTF can be more difficult with specialty fabrics such as nylon, spandex, or coated fabric. While specialty fabrics such as nylon, spandex, or fabric with coatings can yield excellent results, the durability of your transfers on these items may not be as high-quality as expected.
While they can have issues with opacity, especially on colored garments and cotton-polyester blends, using a combination of the DTF transfer method for heat press printing is great because it gives good rayon to both light clothes. All types of fabrics, including cotton/polyester and cotton-poly blends, benefit from its durability. Single-garment specialty fabrics, such as those used in making a wedding dress, will require careful handling.
