Direct to Film (DTF) printing is a revolutionary technology that transfers high-quality images to a variety of surfaces. Whether you're working with textiles, metal, wood, or plastic, DTF plates offer unmatched flexibility and durability. This handy guide will show you how to use DTF plates on these different materials.
General Steps for Using DTF Boards
Before detailing the specifics for each material, here are the general steps for using DTF boards:
- Design Preparation: Create or select your digital design using graphics software. Make sure the image is high resolution for best results.
- Transfer to Surface: Place the received film on the target surface and use a heat press to transfer the image. The pressing temperature and time vary depending on the material.
- Cooling and Film Removal: Allow the surface to cool before carefully removing the PET film, revealing the transferred image.
Transfer on Textile
- Textile Preparation: Make sure the textile is clean and dry. Iron lightly to remove creases.
- Temperature and Pressing Time:
- Temperature: 160-170°C
- Time: 15-20 seconds
- Transfer and Cooling: Follow general steps and allow to cool completely before removing film.
Transfer to Metal
- Metal Preparation: Clean the metal surface with a degreaser to remove any dirt, oil or residue.
- Temperature and Pressing Time:
- Temperature: 170-180°C
- Time: 25-30 seconds
- Transfer and Cooling: Apply firm pressure and allow to cool completely before removing film.
Transfer on Wood
- Wood Preparation: Make sure the wood surface is smooth and clean. Sand lightly if necessary.
- Temperature and Pressing Time:
- Temperature: 160-170°C
- Time: 20-25 seconds
- Transfer and Cooling: Follow general steps and allow to cool before removing film.
Transfer on Plastic
- Plastic Preparation: Clean the plastic surface to remove any dirt and residue. Use a soft cloth.
- Temperature and Pressing Time:
- Temperature: 140-150°C
- Time: 15-20 seconds
- Transfer and Cooling: Apply moderate pressure and allow to cool before removing the film.
Practical Advice
- Test on a small area first: Before transferring to a large area, test on a small area to ensure the temperature and time settings are correct.
- Use a quality heat press: For best results, use a heat press that maintains a constant temperature and provides even pressure.
- Follow manufacturer's instructions: DTF films and adhesive powders may vary depending on the manufacturer. Be sure to follow the specific instructions that come with your supplies.
Conclusion
Using DTF plates offers incredible flexibility to transfer images onto a variety of surfaces, from textiles to metals, wood, and plastic. By following this handy guide, you can ensure high-quality transfers that are durable and visually appealing. Feel free to experiment and adjust the settings to suit your specific project needs.
At [Site Name] we supply high quality DTF plates and all the consumables needed to ensure the success of your printing projects. Contact us to find out more or for personalized advice on using our products.
