Is DTF the New Screen Printing?

Is DTF the New Screen Printing? Here’s What You Need to Know

The custom apparel industry is evolving fast. As designers, small businesses, and print shops seek faster, more flexible solutions, one printing method is making waves:
👉 DTF (Direct to Film)

So, is DTF the new screen printing?
✅ Yes — and here’s why.

Let’s break down what makes DTF such a game-changer and how it stacks up against the traditional screen printing process.

🧵 A Quick Look at Screen Printing

Screen printing uses stencils (screens) to layer ink onto garments. While it’s been a standard for decades, it comes with:

  • High setup time

  • Minimum order requirements

  • Limited color usage

  • Slower design changes

Screen printing works great for simple, high-volume orders — but for today’s world of small batches and on-demand designs, it struggles to keep up.

🖨️ What Is DTF Printing?

DTF (Direct to Film) is a newer method that uses inkjet technology to print designs onto a film. The design is then transferred to fabric using a heat press.

Key features include:

  • CMYK+White ink support

  • Works on cotton, polyester, blends & more

  • No screens or weeding needed

  • Photorealistic results

  • Small-batch friendly

📦 Available right now via:
👉 Upload Ready DTF Gang Sheet
👉 Build Your Own Gang Sheet

🆚 DTF vs. Screen Printing: What's the Difference?

Feature DTF Printing Screen Printing
Setup Time None High (screens, films)
Color Flexibility Unlimited (full CMYK+W) Limited (1–6 colors)
Fabric Compatibility All fabrics Cotton/poly preferred
Order Minimums No minimums Often 12+ garments
Speed Fast (24–48 hr turnaround) Slower (3–7 days typical)
Design Complexity Excellent Best for simple designs
Print-on-Demand Ready ✅ Yes ❌ No

🧠 Why DTF Is Replacing Screen Printing

1. 🔁 No Screens, No Setup

Forget screen burning, alignment, or screen storage. With DTF, you:

  • Upload your art

  • Receive press-ready transfers

  • Start pressing within 24–48 hours

It’s the ideal method for print-on-demand sellers, events, and micro brands.

2. 🎨 Unlimited Color. Unlimited Design.

Screen printing charges by color. DTF doesn’t.
Create multi-color logos, gradients, shadows, and even photo-quality art — no extra cost.

Designers love it because they don’t need to simplify their ideas to save money.

3. 👕 Any Fabric. Any Time.

DTF prints adhere to:

  • Cotton

  • Polyester

  • Tri-blends

  • Canvas

  • Fleece

You no longer need to choose print methods based on fabric type.

🚀 DTF for Today’s Brands

Screen printing was built for mass production. DTF is built for today’s creative entrepreneur:

  • Print 1 shirt or 100 — no difference

  • Update artwork instantly

  • Reduce inventory risk

  • Perfect for Shopify, Etsy, and retail

Start now with:
👉 Build Your Own Gang Sheet

👏 What Our Customers Say

“DTF has totally replaced screen printing for me. I can print every design in full color and press them on-demand.”
– Nicole J., Streetwear Designer

“Used to spend hours setting up screens. Now I upload and press the same day.”
– Tom B., Local Print Shop Owner

✨ Need Custom Transfers Fast?

Explore our top DTF services:

💡 Final Verdict: Is DTF the New Screen Printing?

For traditional shops printing 500+ shirts of the same logo, screen printing still has a place.
But for everyone else — especially creatives, online sellers, and local businesses —
👉 DTF is the smarter, faster, and more flexible solution.

✅ No mess.
✅ No limits.
✅ No waiting.

Start your journey today at Express DTF Supply.