DTF Printing FAQs

What is DTF printing?

DTF stands for direct-to-film printing. With CraftyJet™, you print your design onto special DTF film using dedicated DTF inks (including white ink where needed), then transfer the design to garments or other fabric substrates using heat and pressure.

Because the ink is applied onto film first, not directly onto fabric, DTF works on a wide variety of materials, is ideal for full-colour designs, and does not require pre-treating garments.

How does the DTF process work with CraftyJet™?

1. Load DTF film into CraftyJet™ and print your design using the CraftyJet™ DTF inks (CMYK + White if needed).

2. While the ink is still wet, apply CraftyJet™ hot-melt adhesive powder to the printed design.

3. Cure the print so the adhesive powder bonds to the ink (using a curing oven or heat press).

4. Transfer the design onto your chosen fabric (shirt, hoodie, bag etc.) using a heat press set to the appropriate temperature, time, and pressure.

5. Peel off the film (hot- or cold-peel, depending on the film type) and optionally post-press for additional durability.

What substrates and applications work well with CraftyJet™ DTF?

Using CraftyJet™ and compatible consumables, you can print onto a broad range of materials with strong adhesion and vibrant results. Works well on:

• Cotton, polyester and blended fabrics

• Light or dark garments — DTF’s white under-base ensures colours pop on dark backgrounds without pretreatment.

• Items like t-shirts, hoodies, bags, sportswear, and other textile goods.

What consumables do I need for CraftyJet™?

To run CraftyJet™ successfully, you’ll need:

• CraftyJet™ DTF inks (CMYK + White for under-base where required)

• CraftyJet™ DTF film (hot-peel or cold-peel, depending on your workflow)

• CraftyJet™ hot-melt adhesive powder — essential for bonding ink to fabric during the transfer.

Using genuine CraftyJet™ consumables ensures optimal print quality, consistency, and durability.

What are the typical print quality and durability outcomes with CraftyJet™?

When you use CraftyJet™ along with the recommended film, powder and inks, you can expect:

• Vibrant, full-colour prints with solid colour opacity.

• Reliable transfers and wash durability for garment printing.

• Fine detail and good edge definition, even on complex designs, ideal for custom apparel, small-batch runs or personalised gifts.

What are the main things to watch out for?

• Proper workflow is essential: heat-press temperature, pressure, time, and correct curing must all be dialled in when transferring.

• Because the transfer sits on top of the fabric (rather than dyeing fibres), some garments with special coatings or textures may affect adhesion. Always test first!

• A reliable heat press (and proper post-pressing, if required) is as important as the printer, the printer alone isn’t enough.

Final Thoughts on Using CraftyJet™ for DTF Printing

CraftyJet™ gives you a streamlined entry into DTF printing, combining ease of use, versatility and the ability to deliver professional-looking results with minimal setup. As long as you pair the printer with the right CraftyJet™ consumables (inks, film, powder) and follow a consistent workflow, you can produce high-quality garments, accessories or merch, from one-off personalised pieces to small-batch runs, with good durability and vibrant colours.