At PyroTec Design, every custom print is made with DTF (Direct-to-Film) transfers that we press in-house. Here's how DTF compares with traditional screen printing, and why it's a great fit for custom orders of any size.
What is DTF printing?
With DTF, your design is printed in full color onto a special clear film, backed with a white ink layer, coated with a fine adhesive powder and cured. The transfer is then heat-pressed onto the garment, where it bonds to the fabric.
What is screen printing?
Screen printing pushes ink through a mesh screen onto the shirt. Each color in a design needs its own screen and setup, and the colors are printed one layer at a time.
Side by side
| DTF (what we use) | Screen printing | |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum order | None: one shirt is fine | Usually a minimum (often 12–24+) |
| Setup fees | None | Screen and setup charges per color |
| Colors & detail | Unlimited colors, gradients and photos at no extra cost | Each added color adds cost; gradients and photos are harder |
| Fabrics | Cotton, polyester and blends | Best on cotton; polyester often needs special inks |
| Feel | Thin, flexible layer on top of the fabric | Ink sits in or on the fabric; very soft with thin inks |
| Names & numbers | Every shirt can be different at no setup cost | Personalization usually needs a separate process |
| Turnaround for small orders | Fast: no screens to make | Setup time makes small orders less practical |
| Best value | 1 to a few hundred pieces, full-color art, mixed designs | Very large runs of simple 1–3 color designs |
Why we chose DTF
- No minimums. Order one shirt or a whole team's worth.
- Full color with no surprise charges. Photos, gradients and detailed logos cost the same as a one-color design.
- Works on almost everything we sell: cotton tees, performance polyester, blends, hoodies and more.
- Easy personalization. Different names and numbers on every shirt are simple.
Things to know about DTF
- DTF sits as a thin layer on top of the fabric, so very large solid areas feel smoother and a little heavier than the shirt itself. Designs with some open space breathe and feel lighter.
- Print quality depends on your artwork. High-resolution files (300 DPI at the printed size) give the sharpest results. Our design studio checks this for you.
- Very fine lines and faded or see-through edges can print poorly; the studio's print check flags these.
Caring for your DTF print
- Turn the garment inside out and wash cold on a gentle cycle.
- Tumble dry low or hang dry.
- Don't use bleach or fabric softener, and don't iron directly on the print.
Cared for this way, a DTF print keeps its color and stays flexible wash after wash.
Ready to start? Browse t-shirts or read How to Order.