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What is DTF Printing? A Complete Guide for Canadian Print Shops
- Papipapi Papiarea
- Jun 30
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 30
If you've been hearing about DTF printing lately, you're not alone. It's quickly becoming the go-to method for custom apparel in Canada and around the world. Whether you're a print shop owner, a hobbyist, or a business looking to offer branded merchandise, understanding DTF printing can open up a whole new world of possibilities.
What Does DTF Stand For?
DTF stands for Direct to Film. It's a printing process where your design is printed onto a special PET film using water-based inks, coated with a hot-melt adhesive powder, and then heat-transferred onto virtually any fabric or surface.
How Does DTF Printing Work?
The DTF printing process involves four simple steps:
Print: Your design is printed in reverse onto a DTF film using a DTF-compatible printer (like the Super Mini or Supreme HD machines sold by DTF Toronto).
Powder: Hot-melt adhesive powder is applied to the wet ink on the film.
Cure: The film passes through a curing oven or shaker to melt and bond the powder to the ink.
Transfer: The film is placed on your garment and heat-pressed, transferring the design permanently.
Why is DTF Printing So Popular in Canada?
DTF printing has taken off in Canada for several reasons:
No pretreatment required – unlike DTG printing, you don't need to prep garments before printing.
Works on almost any fabric – cotton, polyester, nylon, leather, and more.
Vibrant, durable prints that wash well and hold color beautifully.
Low setup costs compared to screen printing.
Perfect for small runs – great for Canadian small businesses and startups.
What Do You Need to Start DTF Printing in Canada?
To get started, you'll need a few key supplies:
A DTF Printer (like the Super Mini DTF Printer or 13" Super Mini with Shaker)
DTF Ink – White ink (for underbase) and CMYK inks for color
DTF Film rolls – Quick Peel or Cold/Warm Peel depending on your application
Hot-melt adhesive powder
A curing oven or shaker unit
A heat press machine
DTF Toronto carries everything you need to get started – all shipped from Vaughan, Ontario directly to your door, with free shipping across Canada and the USA.
DTF vs. Other Printing Methods
Compared to screen printing, DTF requires no screens or setup fees. Compared to DTG, there's no pretreatment and it works on more fabric types. Compared to heat transfer vinyl (HTV), DTF gives you full photographic detail and much faster production for multi-color designs.
Ready to Start DTF Printing?
Whether you're just getting started or looking to scale up your print shop, DTF Toronto has the machines, inks, film, and parts you need. Browse our online store at dtfsuppliescanada.com or call us at 647-822-4657 for expert advice.
Based in Vaughan, Ontario, we're proud to serve print shops, schools, and businesses across Canada and the USA.
Shop DTF Supplies at DTF Toronto
Ready to get started with DTF printing? DTF Toronto carries everything you need: DTF PET film, hot melt adhesive powder, DTF inks for Epson printers, and the Supreme HD DTF printer. Fast Canada-wide shipping. Shop all DTF supplies →
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