👕TshirtPrint2u

Heat Transfer Printing (DTF)

Premium Direct-to-Film printing technology for vibrant, durable designs on any fabric. Malaysia's trusted corporate apparel partner for high-quality custom printing with exceptional detail and color reproduction.

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What is DTF Printing?

Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing is an advanced heat transfer technology that prints designs onto a special PET film, then transfers them to fabric using heat and pressure. This cutting-edge method produces exceptionally vibrant, durable designs with a soft feel that won't crack or fade.

01

Design & Print

Your design is printed onto a special PET film using CMYK+White ink technology for maximum color accuracy.

02

Powder Application

A hot-melt adhesive powder is applied to the wet ink, then cured to create a transferable layer.

03

Heat Transfer

The design is placed on fabric and heat-pressed at optimal temperature and pressure for perfect bonding.

04

Peel & Finish

After cooling, the film peels away, leaving a vibrant, durable design that moves with the fabric.

Why Choose DTF for Corporate Apparel?

Experience the perfect blend of quality, durability, and versatility for your corporate branding needs.

Vibrant Color Reproduction

Exceptional color accuracy and detail capture for intricate logos and brand graphics.

Soft Hand Feel

Lightweight texture that doesn't crack or peel, ensuring employee comfort all day.

Versatile Application

Works on cotton, polyester, blends, nylon, and canvas without pretreatment.

Fast Turnaround

Ideal for corporate orders with tight deadlines. Quick production without quality sacrifice.

Exceptional Durability

Withstands repeated washing and industrial laundering, perfect for workwear and uniforms.

Cost-Effective

No screens needed, ideal for small to medium orders with multiple designs or colors.

Key Advantages of DTF Transfers

Full Color & Gradient Printing

Print unlimited colors, gradients, and photorealistic images without color separation.

No Color Limitations

Print any design with any number of colors in a single pass, unlike screen printing.

Low Minimum Order Quantity

Perfect for corporate samples, test runs, or small team orders with no low MOQ restrictions.

Rapid Production Time

No screen setup means faster production from digital file to finished product.

Large Print Area Coverage

Cover large areas seamlessly for bold corporate branding statements.

Eco-Friendly Option

Uses less water, produces less waste, and has a smaller environmental footprint.

Disadvantages & Limitations

Understanding limitations helps make the best choice for your corporate needs. We provide honest assessments.

Heat Sensitivity

Some delicate fabrics may not withstand the heat required for optimal bonding.

Limited Dark Fabric Printing

Opacity on very dark fabrics may not match traditional screen printing.

Not for Very Large Runs

For 500+ identical pieces, screen printing may be more cost-effective.

Slightly Thicker Feel

Has a slightly thicker feel compared to premium DTG printing on light fabrics.

Our Professional Recommendation

We assess each project individually. For large corporate orders, we may recommend a hybrid approach—using DTF for complex designs and screen printing for solid colors to optimize cost and quality.

DTF Facts vs. Myths Comparison

Separating industry facts from common misconceptions about DTF printing technology.

Facts About DTF

Works on Most Fabrics

Successfully prints on cotton, polyester, blends, nylon, canvas, and leather with proper preparation.

Long-lasting Durability

Withstands 50+ industrial washes without cracking, peeling, or significant fading when applied correctly.

Excellent for Small Batches

Most cost-effective for orders of 1-100 pieces with complex, multi-color designs.

Soft Textured Finish

Modern DTF transfers have a soft, flexible finish that moves naturally with the fabric.

Common Myths About DTF

"DTF is Just Like Vinyl"

False. DTF uses ink (not vinyl) and has a completely different application process and finished feel.

"It Doesn't Last Long"

False. When applied correctly with proper heat and pressure, DTF is highly durable and wash-resistant.

"Only for Light Fabrics"

False. DTF prints beautifully on dark fabrics using white ink underbase.

"Not for Stretch Fabrics"

False. Quality DTF transfers stretch with the fabric, making them ideal for sportswear.

Corporate Applications

DTF printing is perfect for a wide range of corporate apparel and promotional items across industries.

Corporate Uniforms & Workwear
Event & Team Apparel
Promotional Merchandise
Sportswear & Activewear
Safety Workwear
Hospitality Uniforms
Corporate Gifts
Branded Casual Wear

Is DTF Right for You?

Use this guide to determine if DTF printing is the best choice for your corporate apparel project.

DTF is Excellent For:

  • Complex, multi-color designs
  • Small to medium orders (1-300 pieces)
  • Photographic or gradient designs
  • Multiple design variations
  • Testing designs before large production
  • Mixed fabric types in one order

Consider Alternatives For:

  • Very large orders (500+ identical pieces)
  • Simple 1-2 color designs
  • Extremely dark fabrics needing maximum opacity
  • Heat-sensitive fabrics (some synthetics)
  • Budget constraints on large solid-color areas

DTF is Not Ideal For:

  • Waterproof/weatherproof garments
  • Fabrics that can't withstand 160°C heat
  • Extremely stretchy fabrics (over 50% stretch)
  • Non-textile surfaces
  • Garments requiring chemical resistance

Not sure which printing method is best for your project?

Our experts will assess your needs and recommend the perfect solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

How durable is DTF printing compared to screen printing?

Properly applied DTF printing is comparable to screen printing in durability, typically lasting 50+ industrial washes without significant fading or cracking. The key difference is feel—DTF has a softer hand while screen printing has a thicker ink layer. For corporate workwear, both methods offer excellent longevity when applied correctly by professionals like Tshirtprint2u.

What is the minimum and maximum order quantity for DTF?

DTF has no minimum order quantity—we can produce even a single shirt. For maximum quantities, we recommend DTF for orders up to 300 pieces of the same design. Beyond that, screen printing may offer better cost efficiency for identical items. However, we've successfully produced DTF orders of 500+ pieces for corporate clients who prioritize design complexity over absolute lowest cost per unit.

Can DTF print on dark-colored fabrics?

Yes, DTF can print on dark fabrics using a white ink underbase. The white layer is printed first, then colors are layered on top. While DTF white ink has good opacity, it may not be as completely opaque as screen printing on very dark fabrics like black 100% cotton. We provide fabric samples to show exactly how your design will appear on your chosen material.

How long does DTF production take?

Standard turnaround time for DTF orders is 5-7 business days from design approval. Rush services are available for corporate clients with urgent needs (as fast as 48 hours for some orders). Unlike screen printing which requires screen preparation, DTF allows faster production start since designs go directly from digital file to printing.

What file format should I provide for DTF printing?

We recommend vector files (AI, EPS, PDF) for logos and text, or high-resolution raster files (300 DPI minimum) for photographic images. Our design team can help prepare your files if needed. For corporate clients, we provide free basic design services and will create proofs for your approval before production begins.

Is DTF environmentally friendly?

DTF is more environmentally friendly than many traditional methods. It generates less waste (no screens or excess ink), uses less water in production, and our inks are compliant with international environmental standards. At Tshirtprint2u, we also offer eco-friendly garment options and sustainable packaging for corporate clients focused on environmental responsibility.

DTF vs. Other Printing Methods

See how DTF printing compares to other common apparel decoration methods for corporate applications.

Feature DTF Printing Screen Printing DTG Printing Heat Transfer Vinyl
Vibrant Colors Excellent Good Good Limited
Fabric Versatility All Fabrics Mostly Cotton Most Fabrics Limited
Setup Cost Low High Low Low
Small Orders Ideal Not Cost-effective Ideal Good
Durability Excellent Excellent Good Fair
Hand Feel Soft Heavy Soft Stiff
Complex Designs Excellent Limited Excellent Limited
Cost for 100 pieces RM 15-25/pc RM 12-20/pc RM 20-30/pc RM 18-25/pc
Turnaround Time 3-5 days 7-10 days 2-4 days 3-5 days
White Ink on Dark Fabrics Excellent Excellent Good N/A
Excellent/Good
Limited/Fair

Our DTF Process

1

Consultation & Design

Share your design ideas or logos with our team. We'll provide expert advice on color optimization and placement for the best results.

2

Fabric & Sample Selection

Choose from our wide range of quality fabrics. We provide samples to ensure the perfect match for your corporate needs.

3

Proof & Approval

We create a digital proof for your approval before production, ensuring complete satisfaction with the final design.

4

Production & Quality Check

Our skilled technicians produce your order using state-of-the-art DTF equipment, with thorough quality checks at each stage.

5

Delivery & Support

Your order is carefully packaged and delivered on time. We provide after-sales support to ensure complete satisfaction.

Elevate Your Corporate Identity with Premium DTF Printing

As Malaysia's trusted custom apparel partner since 2017, Tshirtprint2u delivers exceptional quality, competitive pricing, and professional service for all your corporate printing needs.

or email us at tshirtprint2u@gmail.com