Direct to Film
Direct to Film (DTF) printing is our most versatile and scalable method for apparel customization. Unlike DTG, which prints directly onto the fabric, DTF involves printing your design onto a special film, which is then heat-transferred onto the garment using a powdered adhesive. The result? A durable, vibrant print with excellent stretch and wash resistance — and the freedom to print on almost any material.
At MFG, we produce all our DTF transfers in-house. This lets us maintain full control over quality, cost, and turnaround time — ideal for both short runs and high-volume jobs. Whether you're branding t-shirts, hoodies, bags, or workwear, DTF offers unmatched versatility and reliability at scale.
benefits and best use
WORKS ON ALL FABRICS
Cotton, Polyester, blends, nylon, fleece - no problem
DURABILITY + STRETCHABILITY
Holds up to regular washing and movement
IN-HOUSE
PRODUCTION
Faster turnaround time and more flexible pricing
FULL COLOUR DESIGNS
Perfect for bright and solid coloured artwork
CUSTOM PLACEMENTS
Allows for non-traditional print locations
BULK FRIENDLY OPTION
Great for large orders without compromising on quality
limitations
Texture & feel
DTF (Direct-to-Film) is pressed on top of the fabric, creating a slightly raised texture that’s more noticeable than DTG.
While soft, it also leaves a print feel, especially with large solid areas or full-chest prints.
gradients and transparent layers
Direct-to-Film excels with bold, opaque artwork.
Designs with soft fades, subtle transparency, or shadow layers may not print as cleanly as DTG (Direct-to-Garment) due to the adhesive layer.
poor application
A proper heat press application is critical. Since we handle all our own pressing in-house, this isn’t a concern with us, but DIY application of our transfers without proper equipment may lead to issues over time.
dtf cost Calculations
DTF, or Direct to Film pricing is straightforward, scalable, and built for flexibility.
print area & quantity
You’re charged by design size (in square inches) and how many garments you need printed.
The more designs we can fit with-in a 14x16" area the better per-print rate.
breakdown
Here’s a cost guideline for commonly requested sizes:
| Print Size | Approx. Dimensions | Typical Use | Starting Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Logo | 3" x 3" (9 in²) | Breast, sleeve, tags | $4–$6 |
| Medium Print | 8" x 8" (64 in²) | Chest Logo | $8–$12 |
| Large Print | 12" x 12" (144 in²) | Full front/back artwork | $13–$18 |
| Oversized Print | 14" x 16" (224 in²) | Max Area | $18–$24+ |
