DTF printing, or direct-to-film printing, is a process for producing detailed, full-colour transfers that can be heat pressed onto suitable garments. It is commonly used for logos, workwear, uniforms, merchandise, sportswear and short-run clothing production.

This guide explains how DTF printing works, when to use it, how to prepare artwork and whether an individual transfer or gang sheet is the better option.

What Is DTF Printing?

Artwork is printed onto specialist transfer film, coated with adhesive powder and cured. The finished design is supplied as a ready-to-press transfer, which is positioned on a compatible garment and applied with a heat press.

Because the artwork is printed digitally, DTF works well for detailed logos, gradients, small text and designs containing many colours. Separate screens are not required for each colour, making the process useful for one-off transfers, short runs and repeat orders.

What Can DTF Transfers Be Used For?

DTF transfers can be used on many cotton, polyester and blended garments, including T-shirts, hoodies, uniforms, workwear, sportswear, tote bags and promotional clothing. Material coatings and heat sensitivity can vary, so testing is recommended when the garment is unfamiliar.

Benefits of DTF Printing

• Full-colour detail: suitable for logos, illustrations, gradients and complex artwork.
• Flexible quantities: useful for one-off designs, short runs and repeat orders.
• Light and dark fabrics: white ink provides coverage beneath coloured artwork.
• No separate colour screens: practical for artwork containing several colours.
• Ready to press: transfers can be supplied for application with a suitable heat press.

Individual Transfers or a DTF Gang Sheet?

Choose an individual transfer or standard sheet when you have one design and know the required print size. You can order custom ready-to-press DTF transfers in common logo and sheet sizes.

A gang sheet is useful when several logos or designs need to share the printable area. Our online DTF Gang Sheet Builder lets you upload, resize and arrange multiple designs before ordering.

How to Prepare Artwork for DTF Printing

• Use a high-resolution PNG with a transparent background or a print-ready vector or PDF file.
• Prepare artwork at the final print dimensions where possible.
• Aim for 300 DPI for raster artwork.
• Remove unwanted backgrounds, shadows and transparent pixels.
• Make very fine text and lines large enough to print reliably.
• Check spelling, colours and dimensions before submitting the order.
• Do not mirror the artwork before uploading.

How Long Does DTF Printing Take?

At JuJu Print, standard custom transfer orders are usually produced within 1–2 business days after payment and suitable artwork are confirmed. Print-ready gang sheets can often be produced within 24 hours. Delivery time is additional.

Where Can I Order DTF Transfers in New Zealand?

JuJu Print produces ready-to-press transfers in Onehunga, Auckland, with local pickup and New Zealand-wide delivery. View our local DTF printing service in Auckland, or go directly to the custom DTF transfer ordering page.

Need help with sizing, artwork or a larger order? Contact JuJu Print before ordering.

Prices exclude GST. Production times begin after suitable artwork and any required details are confirmed.