DTF Printing
Full-color, no-minimum DTF printing on any fabric. T-shirts, hoodies, jerseys, and more -- printed in California with fast turnaround.
DTF printing -- short for Direct-to-Film -- is the most versatile custom apparel printing method available today. At Uneak Creations in California, we use commercial-grade DTF equipment to produce photographic-quality, full-color designs that bond permanently to virtually any fabric: 100% cotton, polyester, tri-blends, nylon, canvas, denim, and more. No screens. No weeding vinyl. No minimum orders.
What Is DTF Printing and How Does It Work?
DTF printing works in three steps. First, your artwork is printed in full color onto a special PET film using CMYK inks plus a white underbase. Next, a hot-melt adhesive powder is applied and cured. Finally, the completed transfer is heat-pressed onto your garment at 320-330 degrees F for 10-15 seconds, creating a soft, flexible, wash-resistant print that becomes part of the fabric.
Why California Businesses Choose DTF Printing
- No minimums, ever: Order 1 shirt or 10,000 -- the price per unit stays fair either way.
- Any color, unlimited detail: Gradients, photographic images, fine text, and multi-color artwork all print perfectly with no color surcharges.
- Works on dark and light fabrics: The white underbase layer makes colors pop on black, navy, red, and any dark garment.
- Soft hand feel: Unlike plastisol or vinyl heat transfers, DTF prints feel smooth and flexible -- not stiff or rubbery.
- Wash durability: Properly applied DTF prints withstand 50+ wash cycles without cracking, peeling, or fading when laundered correctly.
- Fast turnaround: Standard production is 5-7 business days. Rush service available in 2-3 days.
DTF vs. Screen Printing vs. Embroidery: Which Is Right for You?
DTF is ideal when you need full-color designs, small quantities, or short notice. Screen printing is cost-effective for very large runs of 1-2 color designs. Embroidery gives a premium, dimensional feel for logos on polos, caps, and jackets. Not sure which to choose? Our California team will help you pick the right method for your budget, quantity, and garment type -- just send us a message.
What Garments Can Be DTF Printed?
We print on t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, tank tops, polo shirts, zip-up jackets, sports jerseys, work shirts, tote bags, hats (flat-brim), onesies, youth apparel, and more. We accept customer-supplied blanks or can source garments for you from top brands including Gildan, Bella+Canvas, Next Level, Hanes, Port & Company, and Nike.
Pricing for DTF Printing in California
DTF printing pricing depends on design size, quantity, and number of print locations. A single small-chest logo print starts at a few dollars per piece; full front or oversized prints are priced higher. Request a free quote through our quote form and receive pricing within 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
DTF stands for Direct-to-Film. Your design is printed onto a special PET film using CMYK inks plus a white underbase, then an adhesive powder is applied and cured. The completed transfer is heat-pressed onto the garment at around 325 degrees for 10-15 seconds, bonding the design permanently to the fabric. The result is a full-color, soft, flexible print that works on virtually any material -- cotton, polyester, blends, nylon, and more.
For DTF printing, there is NO minimum order -- you can order a single piece if needed, and the pricing is still fair. UV DTF printing on hard surfaces also has no minimum. For custom embroidery, minimums typically start at 6-12 pieces depending on the garment and stitch count. For company uniform programs, we recommend a minimum of 12-24 pieces per style to make the program cost-effective. Contact us and we will give you exact pricing for your specific quantity.
Our standard production turnaround is 5-7 business days from artwork approval. Rush orders are available in 2-3 business days for an additional rush fee -- ideal for last-minute events, gifts, or uniform needs. Large orders (500+ pieces) or complex projects may require additional time. We will always give you a realistic timeline upfront when you request a quote so you can plan accordingly.
A properly applied DTF print will last 50+ wash cycles without cracking, peeling, or significant fading. To maximize longevity: wash in cold water, turn garments inside out, avoid bleach, and tumble dry on low or hang to dry. DTF prints that peel prematurely are usually the result of incorrect heat press temperature, pressure, or time -- something we control carefully in our production process. We guarantee the quality of every print we produce.
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