Direct-to-film printing, commonly known as DTF printing UK, has become one of the fastest-growing garment printing methods in the apparel industry. It offers vibrant colours, excellent durability, and the ability to print on a wide range of fabrics without pre-treatment.
Whether you are a beginner starting a small business or an established print shop looking to expand your capabilities, understanding how DTF printing works and what supplies you need is essential.
In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about DTF printing supplies in the UK, how the process works, and how to achieve consistent, professional results.
What is DTF Printing?
DTF printing (Direct-to-Film) is a process where designs are printed onto a special coated PET film using water-based DTF inks. A fine adhesive powder is then applied to the wet ink, and the print is cured before being heat-pressed onto garments such as t-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, and workwear.
Unlike DTG (Direct-to-Garment), DTF does not require pre-treatment on most fabrics and works on:
- Cotton
- Polyester
- Blends
- Nylon
- Lycra
- Workwear fabrics
This makes DTF printing supplies UK a highly versatile choice for printers.
How DTF Printing Works — Step by Step
Step 1 — Printing onto DTF Film
Your design is printed onto DTF film UK using CMYK + white DTF ink. The white layer acts as the base, ensuring bright colours on dark fabrics.
Step 2 — Applying DTF Powder
A fine DTF powder UK is applied evenly across the wet print. This powder acts as the adhesive that bonds the design to the garment.
Step 3 — Curing the Print
The printed film is passed through a heat tunnel or heat press to melt the powder and fully cure the design.
Step 4 — Heat Press onto Garment
Once cooled, the transfer is placed onto the garment and pressed at the correct temperature and pressure.
Step 5 — Peel (Hot or Cold)
Depending on your film type, you either hot-peel or cold-peel the transfer to reveal the final print.
Essential DTF Supplies You Need
DTF Film (Hot Peel or Cold Peel)
Your choice of DTF film UK determines your workflow and finish. Hybrid hot & cold peel films are now the most popular in the UK market.
DTF Ink (CMYK + White)
High-quality DTF ink UK is critical for strong adhesion, vibrant colour, and long-lasting prints.
DTF Powder
A fine, consistent DTF powder UK ensures proper bonding and prevents cracking or peeling over time.
Printhead Cleaning Solution
Regular use of DTF printhead cleaning solution UK prevents clogging and keeps your printer running smoothly.
Printhead Moisture Solution
This keeps the nozzles hydrated during idle periods and reduces blockages.
Printhead Cleaning Swabs
Lint-free swabs help safely clean capping stations and printheads.
Class 1000 Cleaning Cloths
These ultra-clean cloths prevent dust contamination and protect your printhead.
All of these products will be available from dtfsupply.co.uk, your specialist UK supplier of professional DTF consumables.
Best DTF Supplies in the UK
The quality of your prints depends heavily on the supplies you use. Cheap inks, poor-quality film, or inconsistent powder can lead to:
- Cracking prints
- Poor wash durability
- Colour fading
- Ink bleeding
- Printhead clogs
For reliable, trade-grade materials, sourcing from a dedicated UK supplier like dtfsupply.co.uk ensures faster delivery, consistent stock, and products designed specifically for UK printers.
Common DTF Problems and How to Fix Them
Problem: Print cracking after washing
Solution: Use better DTF powder UK and adjust curing temperature.
Problem: Colours look dull
Solution: Improve white ink base layer and use premium DTF ink UK.
Problem: Printhead clogging
Solution: Use DTF printhead cleaning solution UK regularly and keep moisture solution in the cap.
Problem: Powder not sticking properly
Solution: Check humidity levels and apply powder evenly.
Where to Buy DTF Supplies in the UK
If you are looking for reliable, high-quality DTF printing supplies UK, visit:
https://dtfsupply.co.uk
You will find:
- Premium DTF film
- Professional DTF inks
- Fine DTF powder
- Printhead cleaning solutions
- Printhead moisture solutions
- Cleaning swabs
- Class 1000 cloths
Final Thoughts
DTF printing is transforming the UK garment industry by offering flexibility, affordability, and outstanding print quality. With the right equipment and consumables, you can produce professional-grade prints consistently.
For trusted, specialist DTF supplies UK, choose dtfsupply.co.uk — your partner in digital garment printing.
Meta Title: DTF Printing UK | Ultimate Guide to DTF Supplies Meta Description: A complete guide to DTF printing UK, explaining how it works, essential DTF supplies, common problems, and where to buy professional materials from dtfsupply.co.uk.