What is a DTF Transfer? A Practical Guide for Print Shops in 2025

If you're in the business of custom apparel, chances are you've heard about DTF printing. The term gets thrown around a lot, but many shop owners are still asking the key question: What is a DTF transfer?

This guide breaks down what a DTF transfer is, how it works, how it compares to other printing methods, and why it has become a go-to solution for print shops aiming to grow in 2025. If you're trying to streamline production, take on more complex jobs, or reduce manual labor, this might be exactly what you need.

Let’s get started.

What is a DTF Transfer?

DTF stands for Direct to Film. A DTF transfer is a heat-applied graphic that is first printed onto a special film using DTF ink and technology. That printed film is coated with a powder adhesive, cured using heat, and then applied to garments with a heat press.

Here's the basic DTF transfer process:

1. A design is printed in reverse onto PET film using DTF-specific inks.
   

2. The wet ink is covered with a hot-melt adhesive powder.
   

3. The powder is cured using heat (either in an oven or under a press).
   

4. The finished transfer is heat pressed onto the fabric of your choice.
   

The result is a vibrant, durable, and flexible print that works on a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, and blends.

Why Are DTF Transfers So Popular?

DTF has gained serious traction in the past couple of years. At DTF Virginia, we’ve seen how shops are making the switch from older methods like HTV or even outsourcing screen printing. What they’re finding is a production method that is faster, easier to scale, and gives better print quality across more material types.

For many small to mid-sized businesses, DTF is a chance to simplify their workflow without sacrificing quality. It’s especially appealing to shops looking to cut back on time-consuming tasks like weeding vinyl or managing minimums with outsourced screen printing.

DTF Transfers vs. Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV)

A lot of decorators compare DTF with HTV because both use heat to apply designs. But the similarities stop there. The two methods are different in almost every way, especially when it comes to speed, complexity, and scalability.

DTF is a more advanced system, but it removes much of the repetitive manual work associated with HTV. That makes a big difference in a production environment.

Key Advantages of DTF Transfers

Full Color Without Limits

You can print highly detailed images, photo-quality designs, and gradients without worrying about layering or cutting multiple materials.

Shorter Turnaround Time

DTF printing eliminates the need for vinyl weeding or color layering. Designs are printed and pressed, which reduces production time.

Versatility Across Fabrics

DTF transfers adhere well to cotton, polyester, blends, and even unusual materials like nylon. You don’t have to limit your product range based on fabric.

Ready When You Are

Once a transfer is printed and cured, it can be stored and pressed later. That means you can produce in batches and fulfill orders as they come in.

Long-Lasting and Flexible

DTF transfers typically last for 50 or more washes without fading, peeling, or cracking. The finish is soft, with excellent stretch and rebound.

A Few Drawbacks to Consider

Higher Startup Costs

If you’re printing in-house, DTF requires investment in a printer, ink, film, powder, and curing equipment. However, many shops recover that investment quickly once orders pick up.

Maintenance and Workflow

DTF printers require consistent cleaning and care. Printheads can clog if not used regularly, and curing powder needs to be handled properly to avoid mess or transfer issues.

Learning the Process

The DTF workflow is straightforward, but it takes practice to dial in temperature, time, pressure, and humidity. Once you’ve got it, production becomes fast and repeatable.

Is DTF Better Than HTV or Sublimation?

It depends on what you are trying to achieve.

• For detailed or full-color designs, DTF offers superior quality and fewer production steps compared to HTV.
  

• If you’re only doing single-color names and numbers, HTV is still an affordable choice.
  

• Sublimation works well for polyester and white garments, but it does not apply to cotton or dark fabrics.
  

In short, DTF is the most versatile and scalable option for most apparel shops.

Who Should Use DTF Transfers?

DTF is a strong fit for:

• Small print shops with growing order volume
  

• Apparel brands doing print-on-demand
  

• Custom jersey businesses
  

• Shops currently outsourcing screen printing
  

• Entrepreneurs who want to offer full-color customization
  
  

At DTF Virginia, we’ve worked with clients who switched from HTV to DTF and reduced their production time by over 60 percent. One customer, who prints sports uniforms locally, used to spend hours weeding vinyl. After switching to DTF, their workload became more efficient, and their output doubled without extra staff.

Getting Started with DTF Transfers

You can either produce DTF transfers in-house or source them from a trusted supplier.

For shops just getting started or testing the market, buying ready-to-press DTF transfers is a smart, low-risk option. You get all the quality and speed benefits of DTF without needing to invest in hardware or manage daily maintenance.

As your volume grows, bringing the process in-house becomes a smart long-term move. Either way, DTF opens the door to faster, more profitable production.

Final Thoughts: Why DTF Transfers Matter in 2025

So, what is a DTF transfer? It’s more than just a new technique. It’s a reliable, cost-effective printing method that makes it easier for apparel businesses to meet modern demands from full-color prints to fast turnarounds and high-quality results on a variety of fabrics.

At DTF Virginia, we are committed to helping apparel decorators simplify production, grow their capabilities, and stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're new to DTF or ready to scale, we offer solutions that fit your business.

Explore our ready-to-press DTF transfers and experience the difference this method can make in your print shop.