DTF Supplies

Main Types of DTF Supplies

When it comes to DTF supplies, not all products are created equal.

DTF Inks

Quality of ink is crucial in DTF printing as the inks play the key role of image transfer and print quality.

When choosing DTF inks, the manufacturer declares that there are three aspects that need to be prioritized:

Color Vibrancy, in order for the ink to produce rich and vivid colors;

Durability, which means the prints can survive repeated washing without color bleed.

Compatibility, so the ink is compatible with their DTF printer model, to get the maximum output.

DTF Films

The DTF film is a foundation that is essential for your design. PET films are the most prevalent in the market because they are strong and clear. Films exist in different kinds, primarily distinguished by peel type—hot peel, which allows you to peel the film immediately after pressing, and cold peel, which requires the transfer to cool before peeling.

After choosing a DTF film, most customers have the following key factors in mind:

Print quality, where the film is of high clarity and resolution.

Ease of use, where they choose the release type that suits their heat press technique and desired finish;

Cost-effectiveness, where the quality vs. cost ratio is adequate, especially when high-volume printing is in question.

TPU Powders

TPU powders are essential to the DTF printing process as they attach the printed image to the garment, so consistent coverage is key to equal adhesion and durability throughout its lifespan.

The curing characteristics of the powder must be compatible with the heat press temperatures so that it melts and sticks according to temperature and pressure.
Proper storage in a low-humidity environment is also required to prevent clumping and maintain functionality.

In selecting TPU powders, most customers initially seek particle size and printing consistency, strong bond strength for repeated washing and wear, and ease of application (hand-applied or on a vibrating machine).

RIP Software

Raster Image Processor (RIP) software is a necessity for use with DTF printing because it takes your digital design and translates it into a usable format for your printer, in addition to color profiles, white under base application control, and even print head adjustment.

Best-selling for DTF Supplies

Are you worried that your DTF supplies are running out too fast, leaving you with incoming orders but not enough supplies to fulfill them? You're not alone—this is one of the most common concerns among DTF printer users, especially small business owners and home-based entrepreneurs.

DTF printing needs a consistent supply, either ink or film or TPU powder. When any of the various supplies run out unexpected in your DTF printing process, it puts the production in danger, in risk of a missed deadline, and brings the chance to find an alternative source for the customer's needs. The importance of forward planning and keeping on hand the most used items is clear.

That's why you don't need to worry, we have made it easy for you to stay prepared by showing you the most common DTF printer supplies our customers always buy together.

Necessary supplies in DTF printing process

When it comes to running a successful DTF printing operation, DTF ink, PET film, and TPU powder are the three core supplies that drive your daily production. 

DTF ink provides the color and detail of your design while white ink typically gets laid down first and consumed much faster than color ink. Since it is laid down on nearly every print you make, it often tends to go quicker, with some production runs having it account for up to 60-70% of total ink usage. White ink is one of the most frequently replenished inventory items in a DTF business; therefore, allowing for fast and frequent restocking.

PET film serves as the transfer medium for designs, and it's essential to have a steady supply on hand, especially when fulfilling large or urgent orders. Running out of film mid-job can bring your production to a standstill. Similarly, TPU powder is crucial for bonding the ink to the fabric during the heat press stage, and without it, no transfer can occur.

To avoid unwarranted downtime or missed deadlines, you may want to consider having a little extra stock on hand. By having these essentials tracking stock, you are always prepared for rush orders, seasonal spikes in orders, or simply large volume jobs to make your DTF business more reliable, effective, and most importantly, profitable.

Key Materials Needed for UV DTF Printing

UV DTF printing is a versatile process that transfers vibrant designs onto a wide range of materials using specialized film, UV DTF ink, and protective varnish.

The A/B film serves as the base for the printed design, while the UV DTF ink creates vivid, durable colors that bond directly to the substrate. 

A layer of varnish adds extra protection, enhancing adhesion, durability, and resistance to wear, resulting in high-quality prints that last. 

Our hot melt adhesive powder is compatible with all DTF printers and PET films, suitable for all materials such as cotton, polyester, blends, etc., with a particle size of ~80μm to ~200μm and strong adhesion.