How to Print T-Shirts Using a DTF Printer – and Why White Ink Matters

Direct to Film (DTF) printing is one of the most accessible and versatile garment decoration methods on the market today. If you’re new to it, this quick-start guide will take you through the basics of how it works, what you’ll need, and why white ink plays such a critical role in achieving vibrant, long-lasting results – especially on darker garments.

What is DTF Printing?

DTF is a method where your design is printed in reverse onto a special film using textile inks. Once printed, a powdered adhesive is applied and cured to the ink layer. This film is then heat-pressed onto a garment, transferring the design cleanly onto the fabric.

Unlike screen printing or DTG, DTF doesn’t require pre-treatment of garments, making it ideal for short runs, full-colour designs and printing on a wide range of materials, including cotton, polyester and blends.

1. Prepare Your Artwork
   Design your graphic using professional design software. Make sure it’s set up in reverse (mirror image) so it appears correctly when transferred to the garment.
2. Print onto the Film
   Using a dedicated DTF printer like the Mimaki TxF150-75 or TxF300-75, print your design in mirror format onto PET film or special paper. The printer will first lay down CMYK inks, followed by a layer of white ink on top — so that the white sits behind the colours when the print is transferred onto the fabric.
3. Apply the Adhesive Powder
   While the ink is still tacky, coat the print with hot-melt adhesive powder. This ensures a secure bond between the design and the garment.
4. Cure the Film
   Heat the printed film using a curing unit to melt and fix the adhesive.
5. Transfer the Design
   Place the cured film face down on your garment and heat-press it at 160–170°C for around 15–20 seconds.
6. Peel and Finish
   Once cooled (cold peel), remove the film backing to reveal your full-colour design. For extra durability, a short second press is often used to lock in the print.