Full color, any fabric, small runs
DTF is the move when you need a full-color design on a short run, or on fabric that does not play well with other methods. Your artwork is printed onto film, then heat pressed onto the garment. Gradients, photos and fine detail come through in full color, and the print sits crisp on top of the fabric.
When should you choose DTF?
DTF earns its spot when:
- You need a short run of a design, from 12 pieces
- The garment is polyester, a blend, or performance fabric
- The design is full color, with gradients or photo detail
- You want a test run before committing to a bigger order
For bigger runs of a bold, few-color design, screen printing usually makes more sense. On 100% cotton where the softest possible feel matters, look at direct-to-garment.
How does DTF compare to DTG?
Both are digital, both handle full color, both are made for small orders. The difference is how the ink gets there. DTG sprays ink straight into the fabric, so the print feels like part of the shirt. DTF lays down a thin film you can feel slightly to the touch, and in return it sticks to a wider range of fabrics. If you are not sure, tell us the garment and the design and we will point you to the right one.
What can we press DTF on?
- Tees and long sleeves
- Hoodies and sweatshirts
- Polyester jerseys and athletic wear
- Blended fabrics
- Tote bags
Bring your own pieces or browse the catalog.
How does a DTF order work?
- Send the file. The highest resolution artwork you have.
- Free art check. We review it and flag anything that will not print clean.
- Print and press. Your design is printed onto film and heat pressed onto each garment.
- Pickup or ship. Grab it at our DTLA shop or have it shipped.
Need it fast? Rush (1 week, +15%) and Super Rush (3 business days, +30%) are open for tight deadlines. See Rush and Super Rush printing.
Let’s press it
Send the design, garment and count through our quick quote form. Quotes come back within one business day, or call (323) 433-0033, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.