Sublimation on cotton fabrics has been difficult to achieve excellent results in the past. However, this has all changed with the discovery of DTF Transfer Film and Powder. This transfer film and powder combination allow users to achieve high-quality sublimated prints on 100% cotton fabric. This makes it possible to create beautiful and vibrant images that look great on various materials.
When it comes to sublimating on cotton, DTF Film and Powder is a great process to try. The film is easy to use and produces excellent results, and the powder helps to ensure that the image transfers correctly to the fabric. This process is perfect for projects requiring a high level of detail, producing vibrant colors that are sure to impress. So if you’re looking for a great way to create beautiful sublimated cotton products, be sure to give DTF Film and Powder a try!
Looking for Design Ideas
Design Bundles is a great place to find high-quality sublimation designs for a fraction of the cost. With an ever-growing library of designs, you’re sure to find the perfect design for your next project. What’s more, Design Bundles offers monthly bundles of designs at an even bigger discount, so be sure to check it out!
What is DTF Transfer Film and Powder
DTF Transfer Film and Powder is a particular transfer film, and powder used to create designs on 100% cotton fabric. The design is printed on the film with sublimation ink, and the powder is sprinkled on top. Then, the design is transferred to the fabric using heat.
Supplies
- Cotton Garment
- DTF Transfer Film
- DTF Powder
- Sublimation Printer
- Sublimation Ink
- Heat Transfer Tape
- Heat Press or Easy Press
*Disclaimer: Links above are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no cost to you by clicking on these links. Some products may have been provided to me by vendors. However, all opinions and reviews are strictly my own.
Excited to get started on this project? Check out the video tutorial below or follow the step-by-step instructions! You choose how you want to learn to do this project! The video tutorial is excellent for those who want to see the project come together, and the step-by-step instructions are perfect for those who want a more detailed look at each component. Either way, you’ll be able to create this project with ease! So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!
Here’s how to use DTF Transfer Film and Powder:
Step #1 100% Cotton Garnment
Determine what you want to sublimate on. You can use any shape or size, but we’ll use a shirt for this tutorial.
Step #2 Print Design on DTF Film
Print out your design onto the DTF Transfer Film. There is a trick to getting the transfer film through your printer. You will need to attach the film with a piece of tape to a copy paper to ensure it will move smoothly through your sublimation printer. Also, make sure to do a mirror image print!
Step #3 Prep 100% Cotton Fabric
Place your cotton shirt face up on your heat press. Remove any moisture from the fabric by putting it under the heat press for about 10 seconds, and then give the material a quick roll with a link brush.
Step #4 Prep DTF Transfer Film for Printing
Remove the copy paper from the DTF Transfer Film. Then place the DTF Transfer Film with the design face down on top of a piece of paper. Sprinkle the DTF Powder all over your image. Then put excess powder bag in the bag for next time.
Step #5 Time for the Heat Press
Now let’s press your image. Make sure the design is lined up in the center of your shirt. Place the DTF film face down and secure with heat transfer tape. Cover with a piece of blow out paper. Using your heat press or Easy Press at 385 degrees, press firmly for 40 seconds.
Step #6 Finishing Touch
Allow the fabric too cool to the touch, and then carefully remove the DTF Film from the shirt.
I love how bright the colors come out with this new method! What do you think?
DTF Transfer Film and Powder is a great way to add designs to 100% cotton fabric. The process is simple, and the results are impressive. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to create beautiful designs that will last wash after wash.
What type of design and fabric are you going to try? I can’t wait to try a sweatshirt!
If this project inspired you, check out some of my other projects for more inspiration!
Don’t forget to check out my Fun Stuff Crafts Amazon Storefront!
Social Media Links
CLICK HERE If you want to join the Facebook Group, Crafts, and Inspiration, hosted by Fun Stuff Crafts! I share and encourage members to share tips and projects in the group. Please answer the questions to be added to the group!
18 comments
At what pont is the powder used? its not mentioned in the steps.
After you print the design on the transfer paper.
Does the copy paper have to be the same size as DTF paper?
You can see roller marks in the image .How can I prevent this?
Make sure that your print setting is normal. You may need to use draft as
your setting. The roller marks are because there is to much ink. I have also had some success using the tip of an eraser to remove the lines but be very carefully you don’t want to touch any ink because it will smear.
Have you printed with an Epson f170 and used dtf? I’m concerned that the image will be too dry for the powder to stick once it’s finished printing? And have you tried this on bleached shirts?
I have only done it on my Epson 7720 and it have worked great. Bleached
shirt should work too!
ooops just read it LoL
Does the copy paper have to be the same size as DTF paper?
It does not need to be the exact same size. I used a letter size of copy paper when I attached mine. The idea on the paper is to help guide the DTF sheet through the printer.
Do you put the image up so the powder is on the side that adheres to the shirt??
or on top of the image??
The image is printed on the matte side of the sheet, the powder is poured over the image and excess is powder is poured back in bag. The the image is placed on the shirt with the image and powder face down on the shirt and pressed.
Other things I’ve read said to heat the powder before pressing it to the shirt, is it really not necessary to heat it before applying it?
The first time I did DTF I did not heat the powder but in my lessons learned follow-up with a different powder it recommended heating. Here is a link to that post. https://funstuffcrafts.com/2022/10/14/direct-transfer-film-dtf-and-sublimation-my-lessons-learned/
If I use this technique, will it print white?
No it will not print white.
does this make it to where you can see white if you use the powered?
I have not had success with white showing and I have also struggled with using dark material, like a black shirt.