Decorators and distributors, here’s your industry trend alert! There’s a new decoration method you need to know about if you want to excite end-buyers and alleviate common decoration challenges. We’re talking about DTF (direct-to-film) transfers. This innovative imprint method not only produces high-quality, colorful imprints, it’s also easier to implement than other popular methods, such as the popular and similar DTG (direct-to-garment) technique.

So, what exactly makes DTF printing so game changing, and which types of garments can it be used on?

Direct-to-Film Fast Facts

• No need for pretreatment, even for white ink
  This differs from DTG printing where pretreatments are required to reproduce light colors. That’s one less color consideration you need to worry about.
• Powdered glue on the back of transfers cures quickly with heat
  No mess and no complicated setup required. Plus, you can fulfill orders faster than before. Who doesn’t love this?
• Recommended for polyester or other non-cotton fabrics
  While DTG printing is preferred for cotton, DTF finally provides an easy ink-based branding solution for polyester and other unique blends, which broadens the opportunity to explore some of Next Level Apparel’s (asi/73867) many fabric collections and style options.

This new decoration method pairs perfectly with a wide range of polyester and non-cotton formulations, many of which are available from your favorite apparel suppliers you already know and love. Let’s review our top apparel picks from renowned supplier, Next Level Apparel, that can be decorated flawlessly with DTF transfers.

Next Level Apparel + Direct-to-Film Transfers

• CVC Collection
  

Next Level’s CVC fabric is made with a blend of 60% combed ring-spun cotton and 40% polyester. That polyester content makes it a prime choice for DTF transfer decoration. This top-of-the-line fabric also holds up well to consistent wear while remaining soft and comfortable, resulting in high-quality promo apparel and imprints. For T-shirts, we recommend the Unisex CVC T-Shirt (6210) or the Women's CVC T-Shirt (6610). For tanks, you can’t go wrong with the versatile Unisex CVC Tank (6233). 

• Ideal Collection
  
  Clients that are more budget-sensitive can also take advantage of DTF transfer decoration. When cost is a concern, recommend the Ideal collection, also made from 60% cotton and 40% polyester. The best of both worlds, your clients will get price-conscious apparel from a premium brand at quality they can trust – and that includes their imprints, which will be reproduced flawlessly on this fabric blend. We particularly love the Women's Ideal Racerback Tank (1533) for its flattering fit and robust color assortment.
  
  
• Festival Collection
  
  For clients looking for the latest trends, recommend them styles from Next Level’s Festival collection, made from 65% polyester and 35% cotton. Embodying the spirit of the summer music festival circuit, these sun-kissed colored pieces are lightweight, have exceptional drape and movement, and come in trendy fits like crops and muscle tanks. The Unisex Festival T-Shirt (6200) is a great option with mass appeal. Appeal to clients seeking women’s styles with the Women's Festival Crop Top (5080), Women's Festival Muscle Tank (5013) and the Women's Festival Tank (5033) – each an excellent choice for DTF transfers.

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