do you have a question?

WE HAVE THE ANSWERS!

Take a look at some of our frequently asked questions, if you still need help then reach out and pop us a message.

LET US SHOW YOU HOW

UPLOADING TIPS FOR ARTWORK & REQUIREMENTS 

Follow these steps to make sure there are no delays in the printing process and so that we can offer you the best product possible! and Remember we are always here to help.
File Formatting and Uploading 
  • DO NOT FLIP OR MIRROR IMAGE YOUR ARTWORK

  • Acceptable file types: pdf, png, tif, jpg

  • Send your artwork at 300 – 900 dpi

  • Send your artwork at the exact size you want it printed. Please indicate the final image dimensions in writing. *We cannot resize your image

  • Save your artwork as a RBG file. If you send an CMYK file it will be converted to RGB.

  • Spot colour artwork will be converted to RGB.

  • Remove the background. If you do not want the background around your image to be printed, remove it, otherwise it will be printed.

  • Maximum width is 55cm / 550mm should you setup your own sheet. Please use WE TRANSFER (www.wetransfer.com) to send your files through to us if over 10MB. Email address: info@dtfcapetown.co.za

Colours, Fine Print and Transparency Effects

Colours

We are not responsible for colours. You must check your colours — we do not check colours for you. Most monitors show images in RGB, be sure your file is saved as RBG.  Please check your pantone colours as what you see on the screen is not necessarily what will print, as colours will be converted to RGB.

Small, Fine Print

Words less than 3mm will not come out well and will most likely not transfer onto the garment. Fine, tiny details will not adhere to the transfer. Be sure to add a stroke and make any fine details thicker for best results. We are not responsible for artwork that falls below the minimum requirements.

Transparency effects

Drop shadows and gradients do not work well for DTF. Please take off any shadow or gradient effects as it will not print as you see on the screen.

Resolution

Artwork needs to be created in 300 DPI for best print quality. Images with lower quality will not print well and may appear pixelated.

The printing process needs a high-quality image to have a clean and neat image. Check your edge quality and watch out for pixeled edges in your images and designs. 

What files are best to send for printing?

Although we can print any image file for DTF, not all file types will produce great results. For crisp images with no semitransparent pixels, please use:

  • Vector files like .pdf, .svg and .ai (Adobe Illustrator)

  • .png files with 300 dpi resolution

  • .psd file (Photoshop)

need some more info?

CHECK OUT OUR FAQ

If you have a question that are not listed below, please pop us a message.

What is DTF Printing?

DTF printing stands for "Direct-to-Film" printing. It's a relatively new printing technology used primarily for transferring designs onto various fabrics and materials. The process involves the following steps:

  1. Design Printing: The design is first printed onto a special film using a DTF printer. This printer uses special inks that are different from those used in traditional inkjet or laser printers.

  2. Powder Application: After printing, a special adhesive powder is applied to the wet ink on the film. This powder helps the design adhere to the fabric.

  3. Curing: The film with the adhesive powder is then heated to cure the powder and ink, making them bond together.

  4. Transfer: The film is placed onto the target material (such as a t-shirt or tote bag) and heat is applied to transfer the design from the film to the fabric.

DTF printing offers several advantages, including vibrant colors, flexibility in the types of materials it can be used on, and the ability to produce high-quality, detailed designs. It’s often used for custom apparel, promotional items, and more.

What materials can you print on?

DTF printing is quite versatile and can be used on a variety of materials, including:

  1. Cotton: Ideal for t-shirts, hoodies, and other apparel.

  2. Polyester: Works well for sportswear, jackets, and other synthetic fabrics.

  3. Blends: Cotton-polyester blends are also compatible.

  4. Nylon: Suitable for items like backpacks or activewear.

  5. Canvas: Great for tote bags and other accessories.

  6. Leather: Useful for custom designs on leather goods.

  7. Wood: Can be used for custom decorative items or promotional products.

  8. Ceramic: For custom mugs and other ceramic items.

  9. Metal: Ideal for personalized metal products like flasks or signs.

The key is to ensure that the material can withstand the heat and pressure of the transfer process. Some materials might require specific settings or treatments to achieve the best results.

What is the production lead time? And do you have an exchange policy?

Lead Time

Our current turnaround is approximately 2-3 business days not including weekends or holidays with an average of 2 business days. If you place an order today, the following business day is considered the first business day. Although we do our best to process orders sooner, please note there is no guarantee. For urgent orders please contact us to see if we can assist you.

Exchange Policy

We have a no return policy. However, if the fault is ours, we will contact you to try and fix the issue. If you cancel or want to change your order and we have not run the prints yet then we are happy to accomodate that for you.

How do I press the transfers?

Set heat press to 140 – 160 degrees Celsius

Press for 10 seconds with medium high pressure (approx. 50-60PSI)

Let items cool down completely

Carefully peel from corner downward after transfer is cooled

Cover with Teflon sheet and repress for 10 more seconds to seal in your design

How do I care for my garments?

Caring for DTF-printed garments properly will help maintain the vibrancy and longevity of the print. Here’s a guide to ensure your printed items stay looking great:

Washing

  1. Turn Inside Out: Wash the garment inside out to protect the print from friction and potential damage.

  2. Cold Water: Use cold water to prevent the print from fading or peeling.

  3. Gentle Cycle: Opt for a gentle or delicate cycle to minimize agitation.

  4. Mild Detergent: Use a mild detergent. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can degrade the print.

Drying

  1. Air Dry: It's best to air dry printed garments. Lay them flat on a clean, dry towel or hang them to dry. Avoid wringing out the garment.

  2. Avoid High Heat: If you must use a dryer, use a low-heat setting to prevent the print from getting too hot and potentially peeling or cracking.

Ironing

  1. Low Heat: If you need to iron the garment, use a low-heat setting.

  2. Protect the Print: Place a piece of cloth or parchment paper between the iron and the print to avoid direct heat on the design.

Storage

  1. Cool, Dry Place: Store garments in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

  2. Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overcrowd your closet to avoid unnecessary friction and pressure on the prints.

By following these tips, you’ll help ensure that your DTF-printed garments remain in great condition and continue to look vibrant over time.

Do you offer a delivery service?

We courier nationwide providing door to door or a locker collection option.

Delivery Options

A. Delivery Methods

  • Local Delivery: For nearby customers, often done with in-house drivers or local couriers. 

  • Choice of: Door to Door, or we can send the order to a PUDO courier locker. 

B. Shipping Partners

  • Courier Services: Partner with PUDO

Delivery Times

A. Estimated Delivery Time

  • Delivery times are outside of our control, but when the order is shipped from our warehouse you will receive a notification with tracking info.

A NOTE ON CUSTOM ORDERS

If you require a custom or bulk order please contact us so we can quote