A couple of the most well-known methods in the ever-evolving realm of printing technology for creating high-quality prints on various materials are sublimation and direct-to-film (DTF). Many people confuse the two approaches, but in reality, they serve distinct purposes and have different requirements. Mad Monkey Transfers gets to work on such queries and professionally provides services in such matters. But yes, the question of whether DTF film is compatible with sublimation ink has long been a topic of interest among printers.
Introduction
One of the most versatile techniques to transfer high-quality prints onto multiple surfaces is DTF printing. Because technology allows the printing of intricate images on nearly any material, including cotton, polyester, and even dark-colored textiles, digital transfer printing (DTF) is an excellent substitute for more traditional printing methods, such as screen printing. The process begins with printing the drawings onto a certain type of film. The next step is to apply heat and pressure to the fabric to transfer them.
What Is the Process of Sublimation Ink?
One kind of heat-transfer ink is used in sublimation printing to deposit color onto substrates, which are often treated fabrics or textiles made of polyester. The ink becomes a gas when heated, and it has the ability to cling to threads of fabric. Colors sublimated into light-colored textiles seem vibrant and durable.
Sublimation Printing & Its Unique Benefits
Although they are distinct processes, DTF and sublimation printing both provide high-quality output. Using direct thermal printing (DTF), designs may be applied to various surfaces using transfer film. On the other hand, sublimation printing is essential for getting the dye to adhere to certain materials like polyester or substrates coated with polyester.
A direct thermal printing (DTF) alternative to sublimation that works equally well on dark and light polyester fabrics is available.
Unfortunately, DTF film is incompatible with sublimation ink. The abbreviated version is that. Despite their intended substrates being different, both printing methods may produce prints with a high level of detail and vibrancy. Sublimation ink cannot adhere to fabric fibers using DTF film because it lacks the polymer-based bonding agent. The incompatibility between DTF film and sublimation ink causes the latter to adhere poorly and retain colors poorly.
The Chemical Process of Sublimation and Direct Transfer Printing
If we want to know why sublimation ink doesn't work with DTF film, we have to examine the chemistry of both processes. The ink is heated to a gas state that may be fused with polyester fibers in a process called sublimation. In contrast, direct thermal printing (DTF) uses ink that has been developed to cling to various types of cloth to transfer the ink from a film to the fabric. Sublimation ink and DTF film have differing bonding properties, which result in prints that aren't very strong or effective.
Coatings and DTF Films
It takes a certain coating to transform DTF film into a printable material. This coating is essential for a successful transfer. Whereas sublimation ink does not require a dye-absorbing surface, it does require a polyester foundation or a certain coating. Because DTF film's coating doesn't provide this, sublimation ink is ineffective when used on it.
The Interaction Between DTF Film and DTF Ink
Unlike sublimation ink, DTF ink is ideal for printing on DTF film. A vibrant and long-lasting design is created when the ink is absorbed by the film's coating and then bonds with the fabric's fibers. Chemical differences between DTF ink and sublimation ink explain why the two types of ink are compatible with one another and with DTF film.
Differences Between DTF Printing and Sublimation
One major advantage of direct thermal printing (DTF) over sublimation is the increased variety of materials it may print on. This includes fabrics made of non-polyester materials, cotton and dark colors. Unlike sublimation, which is limited to printing on light-colored polyester, direct thermal printing (DTF) can handle a far broader range of materials and fabrics.
How Do They Work Together?
Printing on DTF film with sublimation ink usually doesn't provide very impressive results. Compared to sublimation printing, the design isn't as vivid and high-quality, and the colors don't seem as good since the ink doesn't stick to the film properly. The print may be readily removed in hot or humid conditions if the ink hasn't adhered properly to the surface.
DTF Film Substitute Inks
Since sublimation ink doesn't stick to DTF film, what kind of ink would work best on it? DTF ink is specifically engineered to adhere to film and imprint durable patterns on fabric. This ink is guaranteed to produce high-quality prints that last because of its extensive compatibility with numerous materials.
Maximizing the Benefits of DTF Printing
Using the right ink and film is crucial for the best results when printing with DTF. This section explains all you need to know about DTF printing, including how to use high-quality transfer films and the correct DTF ink.
Can DTF Film Be Used for Sublimation Transfers?
Although DTF film cannot be used with sublimation ink, it is nevertheless rather popular for DTF transfers, which involve transferring designs created on DTF film to fabrics. The following is a list of pros and cons of using DTF film for sublimation transfers in hybrid printing.
The Heat Effect
The use of heat is fundamental to both sublimation and direct thermal printing (DTF). What follows is a comparison of the two methods of applying heat and an examination of the effects of temperature on the end result. Direct thermal transfer printing requires heating the pattern to adhere well to the fabric, whereas sublimation printing requires heating the ink to turn it into a gas.
Why Sublimation Printing on Polyester Is the Best Option
Sublimation ink works wonderfully with polyester fabrics because they soak up the color when it is heated. As a sublimation printing resource, we'll go over the pros of polyester and the cons of using DTF film and other non-polyester substrates.
How DTF Printing Provides Extra Flexibility
When it comes to polyester-based textiles, sublimation printing is really effective, but when it comes to DTF printing, the possibilities are endless. Now we'll discuss why direct thermal printing (DTF) is rapidly replacing other methods for printing on a larger range of materials, including cotton, dark fabrics, and even leather.
Conclusion
If you are thinking about which printing method is the right way for either your hobby or your business, you should familiarize yourself with the merits and demerits of both methods. Now, if you are seeking some professional Custom DTF Transfers, then you can contact our page, and we will provide you with our services regarding such DTF customization.