DTF or flex film: which printing method suits your clothing?

Short answer: if your design has lots of colours, a colour gradient or a photo, we print it with DTF in full colour. If it's about text, names, squad numbers or a logo in one or a few solid colours, flex or cut film is usually the best choice. Not sure? In the digital proof we'll indicate which technique we recommend.

What is DTF?

DTF stands for direct to film. Your design is printed in full colour onto a transfer film and then applied to the garment with a press. This makes anything possible: gradients, photos, small details and lots of colours at once. DTF works on virtually any fabric, including dark shirts and polyester sports and workwear.

What is flex or cut film?

With flex or cut film, we cut your design from a solid-coloured film and press it onto the textile. The result is crisp, opaque and sharp, even with small lettering such as a phone number or website. You can choose from a wide range of film colours. For workwear, we use sturdy film that can withstand washing at high temperatures.

When do you choose what?

• DTF: logos with lots of colours or a gradient, photos, illustrations, merchandise with a complete design.
• Flex/cut film: text, names and squad numbers on team kit, logos in one or two colours, workwear with a company name and phone number.
• Combination: a full-colour logo on the chest (DTF) and names or numbers on the back (film) can work perfectly well on the same shirt.

From 1 piece, with a proof

We carry out both techniques in our own workshop at In de Betouwstraat 40 in the centre of Nijmegen, from as little as 1 piece. You put together your clothing in the webshop, upload your design per position and first receive a digital proof. We only start pressing once you've approved it. We do not offer embroidery or screen printing.

Want to know more? Have a look at T-shirt printing or clothing printing, or send us a WhatsApp message.

Frequently asked questions

Is DTF or flex film better for a photo?

For a photo, choose DTF: this prints in full colour, with gradients and details. Film is a solid colour and therefore not suitable for photos.

What's best for squad numbers and names?

Flex or cut film: crisp and easy to read, and a different name or number per shirt is no problem.

How do I wash printed clothing?

Inside out, at the temperature stated on the wash label, without bleach, and don't iron over the print.