Thanks to advancements in the technology industry, printing is now more than just transferring words and images on paper. Now you can print on a variety of materials, including metal, plastic and fabric. Even so, it's important to know which type of printing technology is right for the print quality you want.
Having said that, there are two main printing techniques and the most popular ones you can use. This includes sublimation printing and DTF transfer printing. While the two have similarities, they also have significant differences. Learn about the connections and differences between sublimation printing and DTF transfer to help you choose between the two methods.
1. Similarities between sublimation printing and DTF transfer printing
When it comes to DTF transfer and sublimation printing, there are some similarities worth noting. They include: Both processes rely on pet film for heat transfer printing as the final method of moving the print to the product. Both use special transfer materials during the printing process and transfer the image to the product.
2. The difference between sublimation printing and DTF transfer:
Different processes: Both printing methods rely on thermal transfer film of the image to obtain the final product. However, the temperature settings and time required to complete the process are different. For example, DTF settings include 2 to 5 seconds and a temperature of 130 to 170 degrees. On the other hand, sublimation printing takes 40 to 75 seconds and the temperature is between 360℃ and 400 ℃.
Print Quality: The picture quality of both print methods is excellent. The difference, however, is in detail and texture. Methods such as DTF transfer printing provide prints with realistic effects or photo quality. Also, the print is stretchable and washable. On the other hand, claer polyester film for sublimation printing has no photo effect. Also, print quality depends on the polyester content of the material. That said, materials with the highest polyester content have better print quality.
Wash fastness plus elasticity: When washed alone, sublimation printing outperforms DTF transfer printing. However, the difference is in quality. You see, quality based DTF transfers have better washfastness and elasticity. And when it comes to sublimation printing, it has no chance.
Feel: The two methods produce different prints. Since DTF transfer printing uses hot melt adhesive, printing on fabrics feels convenient. That's because it's on the fabric surface. On the other hand, the sublimation method involves the fusion of dyes with the fabric. So when you touch it, it feels as soft as the fabric itself.
