Click and drag designs to position | Use dimension inputs for precise sizing
What DTF (Direct-to-Film) Is - And Why It Matters
DTF stands for Direct-to-Film printing - it's a digital process where designs are printed onto a special film, then transferred to fabric using heat and pressure. It's not screen printing. It's not vinyl. It's closer to digital heat-press but with a lot more versatility.
Here's the simple way to think about it:
- Print any full-color design - gradients, photos, fine details - without setup screens.
- DTF prints onto film first, then transfers to fabric.
- A hot press or heat press melts the adhesive and bonds the design to the material.
- The result is crisp, durable, soft-to-the-touch prints that don't feel heavy or plastic-like.
This process has exploded in popularity because it hits a sweet spot between quality, durability, versatility, and speed.
Why This Tool Exists
This gang sheet calculator - the tool you're looking at right now - is built to help garment decorators optimize their DTF prints:
- Maximize film usage on a sheet
- Reduce material waste
- Save time and money
- Improve production planning
And if you're adding this calculator to your own website, you're not just helping people calculate prints - you're giving them something useful, engaging, and SEO-worthy. That boosts visitor time on page, repeat visits, organic rankings, and conversions - the kind of signal Google loves.
How DTF Compares Across Fabrics + Durability
Below is a breakdown of how DTF performs on common materials and how durable the prints are compared to other methods:
| Fabric Type |
Recommended? |
Print Durability (Wash/ Wear) |
Print Feel |
Comments |
| Cotton (100%) |
|
(Excellent) |
Soft/Moderate |
Classic choice; vibrant colors & long life |
| Polyester (100%) |
|
(Very Good) |
Slightly Soft |
Great for sportswear; colors pop |
| Cotton/Poly Blends |
|
(Excellent) |
Soft |
Best balance of comfort & durability |
Spandex / Stretch Fabrics |
|
(Good) |
Moderate |
Some cracking if over-stretched |
| Nylon |
|
(Fair) |
Slightly Plastic |
Adhesion can be tricky; coated nylon does better |
Canvas (Bags) |
|
(Very Good) |
Moderate |
Good for accessories and totes |
| Denim |
|
(Very Good) |
Moderate |
Holds well; texture affects finish |
| Silk / Delicate |
|
(Low) |
Soft but Unpredictable |
Not recommended; heat can damage fabric |
Key Notes
Durability Ratings Explained:
- = Withstands frequent washing & wear with minimal fading or cracking
- = Good life with regular use, occasional fading possible after many washes
- = Acceptable for low-wear items
Feel & Hand:
DTF usually feels softer than screen print or heavy vinyl because the ink is embedded into an adhesive layer - not a thick plastic sheet.