What is DTF Powder?
DTF Powder is a hot melt adhesive powder used in DTF printing, specifically designed to achieve high-quality, vibrant pattern transfers. It is combined with an ink and heat press machine during the printing process to ensure that designs are perfectly transferred onto clothing or other fabric surfaces. With the continuous development of digital printing technology, DTF Powder is gradually becoming a favorite in the industry due to its ease of use and eco-friendliness, providing strong support for personalized customization and small batch production.
What are the Types of DTF Powders?
TPU:
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is a hot-melt adhesive powder used in DTF (Direct to Film) printing. When applied to the dtf transfer film, it helps the ink adhere to the fabric while providing elasticity and durability for the printed designs. This ensures that the printed patterns do not easily crack and can stretch with the fabric. They also provide a soft feel, making the printed areas comfortable against the skin.
PES Powder:
PES powder is also used in DTF printing. Compared to TPU, PES has a harder surface, making it suitable for applications that require higher durability but may compromise on elasticity. While they are less elastic than TPU, they offer excellent washability and lifespan. For designs or garments where maximum durability is crucial, PES powder may be the preferred choice.
PA (Polyamide):
Polyamide, commonly known as nylon, is a synthetic polymer with a wide range of applications due to its strength, flexibility, and abrasion resistance. In DTF printing, PA powders are versatile, achieving a good balance between the elasticity of TPU and the rigidity of PES. This makes them suitable for various applications, depending on the desired finish and characteristics of the printed design.
What Fabrics Work with DTF Powder?
DTF powder is compatible with almost all types of fabrics, including:
- Cotton
- Polyester
- Blends
- Nylon
- Leather
DTF Powder is not only suitable for common fabrics like cotton and polyester, but it also achieves ideal transfer results on blended fabrics, nylon, and even some synthetic fibers. Due to its excellent adhesion and durability, designs can be clearly and permanently displayed on T-shirts, sweatshirts, and hats using DTF technology.
What are the benefits of using DTF powder compared to other transfer methods?
Versatility:
DTF transfer can seamlessly adhere to all types of fabrics, from 100% cotton and 50/50 cotton-polyester blends to pure polyester. It can bond with both light and dark fabrics without the need for special treatments or extra steps. Additionally, you can apply custom DTF transfers to various surfaces, including luggage, shoes, and wood.
Environmental friendly:
DTF hot melt powder is not only effective but also safe and non-toxic when used properly with appropriate safety equipment. Additionally, compared to other adhesive methods, DTF hot melt powder produces less waste, making it an environmentally friendly solution.
Durability:
DTF transfers are more durable than other transfer methods. While DTF prints may not have the soft feel of DTG prints, they are more resilient.
Reduced production time：
DTF transfer powder can be applied quickly and easily with just heat and pressure, which shortens the production time.
Cost-effective:
DTF transfers are an economical alternative to other transfer methods, particularly suitable for small to medium-sized businesses.
High-quality DTF powder should have the following characteristics
Strong Adhesion: Effectively bonds designs to various materials such as cotton, polyester, and leather.
High Heat Resistance: Remains stable at high temperatures without decomposing or deteriorating.
Fine Particles: Uniform and fine particles help achieve smoother pattern transfers.
Eco-friendly and Non-toxic: Free from harmful substances, safe to use, and compliant with environmental standards.
Easy to Use: Can be easily sprinkled and cured in a short time, improving production efficiency.
Good Durability: Transferred designs should have excellent abrasion and wash resistance, and not easily fade.
Strong Compatibility: Suitable for a variety of printers and heat presses, making it convenient to use with existing equipment.
How to use DTF Powder?
1. What equipment is needed?
To use the DTF printing method, you need certain equipment: a DTF printer, a heat press, and DTF powder.
2. What are the steps for using DTF powder?
DTF powder is a printable adhesive powder used to transfer graphics onto materials like cotton, polyester, and even leather. Here are the steps for using DTF powder:
- Use the DTF printer to print your design onto the DTF transfer film.
- While the ink is still wet, sprinkle DTF powder onto the printed film, ensuring an even distribution.
- Carefully shake off the excess powder. Use a heat press, oven, or heat gun to melt the powder onto the fabric to cure it.
- Once cured, peel off the film, leaving the design on the fabric.
💬 If you're tired of manually applying powder, shaking off powder, and drying a garment for transfers, there's now a machine that can solve your troubles. It saves your energy and improves transfer efficiency. This machine is a DTF printer with a shaker and dryer.
Here, I would like to recommend InkSonic's XP600 DTF Printer with DTF Powder Shaker and Dryer.
💬If you already have your own DTF printer, I recommend you use the InkSonic powder shaker and dryer machine. The powder shaker and dryer can complete both powder application and curing. They are typically classified into two main types: Horizontal and Vertical.
For more detailed information about powder dryers & shakers, you can read this blog Why Invest in a DTF Printer with Shaker and Dryer in 2025
FAQ
How long does DTF hot melt powder take to cure?
With the help of a powder shaker or a dedicated curing oven, DTF powder can cure quickly. Machines like InkSonic's powder shaker and dryer can complete the curing process in just 30 seconds.
How to store DTF powder?
Proper storage of DTF powder is crucial for maintaining its quality. Here are some important tips:
Containers :
Use sealed containers, such as resealable bags or lidded plastic containers. These containers prevent moisture and dust from entering, which can cause the powder to clump and affect its performance. Avoid using cardboard boxes or paper bags, as they are not moisture-resistant and can contaminate the powder.
Environment :
Choose a cool, dry place for storage. Ideally, the temperature should be below 30°C (86°F) and humidity below 50%. Avoid storing the powder in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
Can I use DTF powder for sublimation?
Yes, DTF (Direct to Film) powder can be used for heat sublimation printing, but there are a few key points to consider:
- DTF powder cannot bond properly to sublimation paper because there is no adhesive layer for it to adhere to. Therefore, you need to use special DTF powder with a hot melt adhesive layer that can bond to sublimation ink.
- You will need a sublimation printer and sublimation ink to print your design onto DTF transfer paper.
- After printing, the DTF transfer paper will have wet sublimation ink on it, allowing the DTF powder to adhere.
- Cover the sheet with DTF powder and shake off the excess powder. Cure the DTF powder using a heat press.
- Once the powder is cured, you can use a heat press or other transfer equipment to transfer the design onto the fabric.
Is DTF powder toxic?
DTF powder is non-toxic, but dust and fumes can be generated during printing and curing. You can take appropriate safety precautions, such as wearing respiratory protection or a mask and ensuring proper ventilation to minimize the risk of exposure to dust and fumes.
Conclusion
In summary, the quality of DTF hot melt powder is a crucial component of DTF printing, significantly impacting printing performance. When selecting DTF hot melt powder, it is important to prioritize qualified and reliable products. As a professional in the DTF printing field, InkSonic offers high-quality DTF hot melt powder along with dependable after-sales service, making it an excellent choice for your needs.
