Here is the solution for all all your doubt about ” can you use sublimation ink on dtf film ” Let’s start
Yes, you can use sublimation ink on DTF film
A technique known as a “DTF sublimation hack”, allowing you to print designs on light-colored fabrics, even cotton, using a sublimation printer and DTF film/powder.
Using sublimation ink for DTF is not recommended. You can have a try, but the printing result will be less satisfactory.
For DTF printing, selected ink should withstand heat and pressure, work well on DTF film and fit varieties of fabrics. DTF ink is definitely the top priority, as it can stick to DTF film perfectly and then be cured onto the fabric under heat and pressure flawlessly.
Sublimation ink is not designed for natural fabrics like cotton, and cannot adhere to DTF film or fabrics without the right material composition. Insisting on using sublimation ink for DTF printing can result in low quality prints that carry less vibrant colors and can easily fade.
Among all the DTF inks on the market, xTool Selected Apparel Printer Ink is the most recommended one. It is CMYK+W ink, and uses white ink as the basic color that constitutes the background of the film, thus guaranteeing a large color range for printing. Besides, It is water-based, thus being more environmental-friendly.
Since good compatibility is vital for DTF printing, new comers can consider the duo of xTool Apparel Printer and xTool Selected Apparel Printer Ink. The whole set is easy to operate and can create stunning prints on any fabric in one-click.
Potential Benefits of using sublimation ink on dtf film
- Utilizing Existing Equipment
- For those who already own a sublimation printer, this method can offer a way to experiment with DTF printing without immediately investing in a dedicated DTF printer.
- This can be a cost-effective way to produce small runs of DTF transfers.
- Expanding Fabric Options
- A primary draw is the ability to potentially transfer designs onto cotton fabrics, which is a limitation of traditional sublimation printing.
- This allows users who are used to only being able to print onto polyester, to print onto cotton.
Limitations of using sublimation ink on dtf film
- Ink Differences
- Sublimation ink and DTF ink are formulated differently. Sublimation ink turns into a gas and bonds with polyester fibers, while DTF ink sits on top of the fabric, adhered by adhesive powder.
- This means that the results obtained using sublimation ink on DTF film may not be as vibrant or durable as those achieved with dedicated DTF ink.
- Color Limitations
- Sublimation printers typically do not print white ink. This significantly limits the ability to produce vibrant designs on dark-colored fabrics.
- This means that using sublimation ink for DTF will most likely only be effective on light colored fabrics.
- Durability Concerns
- Prints made with sublimation ink on DTF film may not be as wash-resistant or long-lasting as those made with DTF ink.
- Quality Variations
- The quality of the final print can vary significantly depending on factors such as the type of DTF film, the heat press settings, and the specific sublimation ink used.
- Process differences
- Sublimation is designed to dye fabric, and DTF is designed to adhere to the top of the fabric. Therefore the two processes are very different.
Remember while Using sublimation ink on DTF film
Using sublimation ink on DTF film is more of a “hack” than a standard practice. It can be a viable option for those who already have sublimation equipment and want to experiment with DTF, especially for light-colored cotton garments.
However, for professional-grade results, durability, and wider fabric compatibility, dedicated DTF printing with DTF ink is the recommended approach.
