10 DTF Printing Glossary Terms for Small Business Owners

Looking for DTF printing for beginners? If you are just starting, DTF can seem like a foreign language! This is why knowing some basics is essential if you want high-quality prints that sell. Whether you're running a small business or just doing this as a hobby, understanding DTF printing materials will help you get things done faster. In this beginner DTF guide, we’ll go over 10 must-know DTF printing glossary terms to help you understand the business better. 

1. PET Film

What it is: PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is a plastic that can take the heat, and it's what DTF printing uses as its base.

Why it's important: DTF prints go on PET film first, not onto your clothes. The film gets the ink, glue, and your design ready to be pressed on fabric. Ensure you obtain high-quality cold- or hot-peel PET film. Cheap films can cause smears or not release correctly when pressed. This is the most critical DTF printing terminology to avoid early mistakes.

2. DTF Powder (Adhesive Powder)

What it is: It is the white powder that you put on your printed design. This makes sure that the design sticks to the fabric when you iron it on.

Why it's important: When heated, the powder works as a type of glue. You shake this powder onto the wet ink after printing on PET film, then heat it. The ink can't stick to shirts or hoodies without it. It's essential to use the correct powder for your fabric and apply the recommended amount. 

3. Hot Peel

What it is: Hot peel is a type of PET film that can be removed right after it is pressed onto the fabric.

Why it's important: Hot peel films are ideal because you don't have to wait for them to cool before peeling. This speeds up the process. It's best for when you're doing a lot of shirts. Ensure the heat press is set correctly so that you can peel it off without any issues. 

4. Curing

What is it: Curing refers to drying the glue powder onto the printed film before it comes into contact with a shirt or hoodie. 

Why it’s important: During the DTF printing process, Curing enables the powder to cling to the ink, thereby sticking when pressed. A heat press or a curing unit at a particular temperature (250–300°F) is required to heal. The print could peel or flake if it is not fixed correctly. 

5. Heat Press Settings

What it is: The temp, time, and pressure combo when you're pressing the design from the PET film onto the fabric.

Why it's important: Getting the settings perfect is vital for a clean design. Most DTF prints require temperatures of 300–320°F for 10–15 seconds, applied with firm pressure. Not enough heat or pressure, and the design won't stick well. Too much heat can cause the color to fade or blur. This step is a crucial part of the DTF transfer process and can significantly impact your print quality.

6. RIP Software

What it is: A program that gets your design ready for DTF printing.

Why it's important: RIP (Raster Image Processor) software is essential for managing color, ensuring the clarity of the print, and creating the white layer underneath. It's what helps make the colors turn out well. You need to learn how to use RIP software, such as Acrorip or Cadlink, to achieve great, professional-looking results. It’s one of the most essential DTF printing techniques to learn.

7. White Underbase

What it is: It's a white underlayer under your design, printed on the PET film.

Why it's important: On darker garments, the white part helps make the colors on top pop. Colors could look faded without it on darker fabrics. Most RIP software does this automatically; however, it is always advisable to double-check. 

8. Gang Sheet

What it is: Instead of having one print, it is a full sheet of different prints to save space.

Why it's important: Gang sheets are a great way for small businesses to print multiple designs at once, like team names, logos, and different sizes. DTF printers, such as DTF West Coast, allow you to upload gang sheets, saving you money and simplifying the process. They also help streamline your use of DTF printing equipment.

9. Pre-Pressing

What it is: A quick press of a blank shirt before you slap on your design.

Why it's important: Pressing removes any extra water to make the fabric flat, ensuring a more secure stick, and helps prevent bubbles. A quick 5-second press before printing can make a BIG difference in how it turns out and how well it holds up after multiple washes. 

10. Ready-to-Press Transfers

What it is: DTF prints that are already set to go. All you have to do is heat press them onto garments. 

Why it's important: If you're just getting started or are a small band, this is the easy way to go without buying a bunch of equipment. Companies like DTF West Coast have transfers ready to go, so you don't have to do any printing or curing. All you have to do is order, press, and sell.

Ready to get started with DTF printing? Try our DTF Sample Pack to test the quality of our printing so you can order next time with confidence! 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. How do DTF prints work?
A simple technique called DTF printing involves coating designs printed onto film with adhesive powder, then transferring them to cloth under heat. Its simplicity of use and adaptability make it perfect for tiny merch companies. Using very little DTF printing equipment, you can produce vivid prints on many different kinds of fabrics.

2. What materials does DTF printing require?

Your main DTF printing materials will be PET film, hot melt powder, particular inks, and a heat press. Early investment in the right supplies guarantees professional results and helps you avoid typical errors, even if you are just launching your little product business. These components work together to ensure superior prints, which is at the heart of a successful DTF printing process.

3. How do I master the language of DTF printing?
For any newbie, knowledge of DTF printing terminology is absolutely crucial. Terms like hot peel, curing, and RIP software appear often. Having DTF printing terms explained through guides and tutorials helps simplify your process, reduce mistakes, and prepare you for long-term success in your small-scale apparel company.

4. Any useful advice for improved DTF outcomes?
Keeping a constant temperature and pressure during the heat pressing procedure is among the most helpful DTF printing techniques. Furthermore, verify the correct storage of the adhesive powder and film. Little changes to your configuration may greatly enhance print durability and surface quality, which is a key consideration for selling premium items.

5. Is there a beginner's manual I can follow?
Yes! Our glossary acts as a newbie DTF manual with step-by-step directions for getting your workstation ready, printing your first design, and resolving typical problems. Our guides include images, material checklists, and safety recommendations, ideal for small companies wanting to begin strong in the custom apparel industry utilizing DTF printing.