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The Apparel Lab
Service · DTF Printing

Custom DTF Printing

Direct-to-film (DTF) printing produces vibrant, full-color transfers that adhere to virtually any fabric: cotton, polyester, blends, nylon, and more. It's the most versatile decoration method we offer.

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+ Best For

Where this method shines

  • Full-color designs with unlimited colors
  • Polyester and performance fabrics
  • Small to medium runs (no high-volume minimum)
  • Mixed garment types in one order
  • Complex artwork, gradients, and photographic images
  • Stretchy or technical fabrics
— Not Ideal For

When to consider another method

  • Extremely large bulk runs where screen printing is more cost-effective
  • Designs where a hand-feel-free finish is critical (slight texture)
  • All-over prints beyond standard placement areas
  • Garments that can't withstand heat press application
/ Sec.02Pricing Drivers

What affects your price.

We quote every project individually. These are the variables that move the number.

  • 01Transfer size (larger prints use more film and ink)
  • 02Quantity (per-unit cost drops with volume)
  • 03Garment type (blank cost varies by fabric and brand)
  • 04Number of print locations (each placement is a separate transfer)
  • 05Artwork complexity is NOT a factor (unlimited colors at no extra cost)
/ Sec.03Process

Quote to delivery.

  1. 01Step

    Submit Your Artwork

    Send over your design in any common format. PNGs with transparent backgrounds work best, but full-color, photographic, and gradient artwork all work perfectly.

  2. 02Step

    Review Your Proof

    We send a digital proof for your approval. Adjust placement, sizing, or colors; revisions are included until you're happy with the proof.

  3. 03Step

    Production

    Your approved design moves into production. Transfers are produced and heat-pressed onto each garment, then quality-checked before shipping.

  4. 04Step

    Shipping & Delivery

    Your order is packed and shipped to your location with tracking. Rush shipping available.

/ Sec.04Lead Times

Turnaround.

After proof approval. Rush always subject to capacity.

TierStandard
7–10 business days after proof approval
TierRush
3–5 business days (subject to availability)
/ Sec.05File Specs

Artwork & files.

  • PNG files with transparent backgrounds produce the best results
  • Minimum 300 DPI resolution for sharp, detailed prints
  • Full-color, gradients, and photographic images all supported
  • No color separation needed (what you see is what you get)
  • Artwork cleanup and optimization available if needed
/ Sec.06Catalog

Popular products for this method.

  • / 01

    Performance Tees

    Polyester and moisture-wicking tees that screen printing can't handle.

  • / 02

    Hoodies & Fleece

    Full-color prints on cotton and poly-blend fleece.

  • / 03

    Workwear

    Hi-vis, safety shirts, and durable work garments in any fabric.

  • / 04

    Hats & Beanies

    DTF patches and transfers for structured and unstructured headwear.

  • / 05

    Bags & Accessories

    Totes, backpacks, and accessories in nylon, canvas, or poly.

  • / 06

    Youth & Infant

    Small-run kids' apparel with full-color designs.

/ Sec.07FAQ

Common questions.

What is DTF printing?

DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing involves printing a full-color design onto a special film, applying adhesive powder, then heat-pressing the transfer onto a garment. It works on almost any fabric type.

What's the minimum order for DTF?

Minimums are low, typically as few as 1 piece for custom orders. DTF doesn't require the per-color setup that screen printing does, which keeps small runs cost-effective.

Does DTF work on polyester?

Yes. This is one of DTF's biggest advantages over screen printing, which can struggle with polyester. DTF adheres well to poly, nylon, and blends.

How durable is DTF printing?

DTF prints are very durable when applied correctly. They withstand regular washing and drying. We recommend washing inside-out on cold for maximum longevity.

Ready to start your project?

Free, no-obligation quote, returned quickly.