For those venturing into the world of textile printing, terms like DTF (Direct-to-Film) and sublimation ink might sound similar, leading to confusion about their similarities and differences. In this blog, we will shed light on the distinction between DTF and sublimation ink, helping you make informed choices for your printing needs.
DTF and Sublimation Ink: Not One and the Same
Printing Technique:
DTF and sublimation ink employ different printing techniques. DTF printing involves directly transferring designs onto fabrics using specialized transfer films. Sublimation printing, on the other hand, utilizes heat to transfer ink onto a specially coated substrate, usually polyester fabrics.
Ink Type:
DTF ink is typically a water-based pigment ink designed for direct printing onto transfer films. It adheres to the fabric when heat and pressure are applied during the transfer process. DTF ink offers vibrant colors, excellent adhesion, and durability on various fabric types.
Sublimation ink, on the other hand, is a dye-based ink that turns into a gas when exposed to high temperatures. This ink is used in sublimation printing to create permanent, vivid, and high-resolution designs on polyester and polymer-coated substrates. Sublimation ink penetrates the fibers of the fabric, resulting in a long-lasting, fade-resistant print.
Substrate Compatibility:
While DTF is suitable for transferring designs onto various fabric types, sublimation ink is primarily used for polyester fabrics or substrates coated with a polyester-based layer. Sublimation ink relies on the polyester’s ability to absorb and retain the dye, resulting in vibrant and durable prints.
Application Capabilities:
DTF printing offers versatility in terms of the types of fabrics you can print on, including cotton, blends, poly. It provides more flexibility when it comes to choosing substrates compared to sublimation printing, which is limited to polyester-based materials.
Although DTF and sublimation ink share some similarities, they are distinct in terms of the printing technique, ink type, substrate compatibility, and application capabilities.
DTF ink is specifically formulated for direct printing onto transfer films, offering excellent adhesion and vibrant color reproduction on various fabric types. On the other hand, sublimation ink is used for heat transfer onto polyester-based substrates to achieve permanent, vivid prints.
Understanding the differences between DTF and sublimation ink will help you select the appropriate ink and printing technique for your specific projects. So, whether you’re considering DTF for versatile fabric printing or sublimation for vibrant polyester products, make an informed choice to bring your designs to life!
