DTF Printing Explained: The Ultimate Beginner Guide to Direct to Film Transfers by MAYA TX

Welcome to the world of DTF printing, also known as Direct to Film transfers—a game-changing method in custom apparel production. At MAYA TX, we are proud to be one of the leading DTF transfer providers in the United States, helping creators, entrepreneurs, and print shops bring their designs to life with vibrant, long-lasting prints.
Whether you're launching a clothing brand, growing your online store, or customizing merch for your next big event, DTF transfers offer the best mix of quality, convenience, and fabric versatility.
What Is DTF Printing and How Does It Work
DTF (Direct to Film) printing is a modern heat transfer process that prints full-color designs onto PET film, applies a specialized adhesive powder, cures the design with heat, and then transfers it onto fabric using a heat press.
Unlike DTG (Direct to Garment) printing, which is limited to cotton and requires pre-treatment, DTF works on a wide range of materials—including cotton, polyester, blends, and more—with no pre-treatment required.
How the DTF Process Works at MAYA TX
At MAYA TX, we simplify the DTF process from design to delivery. Here's how it works:
· Upload your artwork using our Gang Sheet Builder at www.txmaya.com
· We print it using commercial-grade DTF printers and premium inks
· Adhesive powder is applied to activate transfer adhesion
· The film is cured with consistent heat for a clean, press-ready result
· We ship your transfers quickly — with free shipping on orders over $89.99
· You bring the heat press — we handle everything else.
Why Customers Nationwide Choose MAYA TX for DTF Transfers
· Works on nearly every fabric — cotton, polyester, fleece, blends, and more
· No pre-treatment required — just press and go
· 50+ wash durability — no cracking, fading, or peeling
· Fast 24 hour turnaround on most orders
· Nationwide shipping with premium customer support
We serve thousands of small businesses, creators, print shops, and apparel brands across the U.S. who count on MAYA TX for consistent quality and competitive pricing.
What You Need to Use MAYA TX DTF Transfers
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
· A heat press machine
· Blank garments or fabric items
· Our ready-to-press DTF transfer sheets
· Application guide (included with every order)
Pro tip: Store your transfers in a cool, dry place to maintain print quality over time.
How to Apply Our DTF Transfers
· Set your heat press to 320°F for cotton or 280°F for polyester
· Place the DTF transfer face down on your item
· Press for 8 to 10 seconds using medium pressure
· Peel warm or cold depending on your desired finish
· Optional: press again for a few seconds for extra softness
Want help? Download our DTF Application Guide from www.txmaya.com
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common issues when working with DTF:
· Using incorrect temperature or pressure settings
· Under-curing or over-curing the film
· Storing PET film in humid or high-moisture environments
· Following the right process ensures sharp, durable prints every time.
DTF Printing FAQ
Can I use a standard inkjet printer for DTF transfers?
No. DTF requires a specialized printer. For convenience, MAYA TX provides ready-to-press transfers you can apply at home or in your shop.
Is DTF better than sublimation?
Yes, especially for fabric flexibility. DTF works on more materials and doesn’t require polyester or white blanks.
How long do DTF transfers last?
When applied correctly, our prints last over 50 washes with no cracking or fading.
Do DTF prints peel?
Not with proper application. Our adhesive powder ensures strong, flexible bonding to fabric.
Get Started with MAYA TX DTF Transfers Today
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, MAYA TX makes it easy to produce custom, professional-quality apparel.
· No order minimums
· Free shipping on orders over $89.99
· Fast turnaround and nationwide service
· Easy-to-use gang sheet builder
· Top-rated DTF transfer quality
Visit www.txmaya.com now to upload your design, order custom DTF transfers, or browse our full selection of DTF supplies and printing tools.
Your next best-selling shirt starts here.