Summary

  1. Introduction
  2. What is a DTF film?
  3. Film "Hot Peel" - The ideal choice for speed
  4. Film "Cold Peel" - When patience is rewarded
  5. Tips for successful printing with Hot Peel film
  6. Conclusion

Introduction

Direct to film (DTF) printing has become an essential technique in the field of textile personalisation. To obtain optimal results, the choice of DTF film is crucial. Professionals often find themselves faced with an important question: should they opt for a "hot peel" or "cold peel" film? This article will help you understand the differences between these two types of film and make the best choice for your printing projects.

What is a DTF film?

The DTF film is a key element in the DTF printing process. It is a medium on which the ink is deposited before being transferred to the textile. This type of film allows you to create precise, high-quality designs, suitable for various types of textiles, whether they are made of cotton, polyester or other blends. There are two main types of DTF film: "hot peel" and "cold peel". Each has its own specific features and advantages, which can make the choice difficult for professionals.

Hot Peel Film - The ideal choice for speed

The hot peel film is designed to be removed immediately after the ink has been transferred to the textile, while the medium is still warm. This feature makes it a preferred choice for those seeking speed and efficiency in their production process.

Hot Peel Advantages

  1. Time saving: The main advantage of hot peel film is that it allows the substrate to be removed without waiting for it to cool. This considerably speeds up the production process, which is particularly useful for large runs or urgent orders.

  2. Visual Results: Hot peel film offers a clean, matt finish, ideal for attention-grabbing visuals. This type of hot peel film allows for bright, well-defined colours.

  3. Ease of use: Removing the DTF film while it is still hot reduces the risk of creasing or smudging, a problem that can occur with other types of film. In addition, handling is faster and less restrictive.

Ideal application

Hot peel film is particularly suitable for projects requiring fast production and a neat finish. It is suitable for printing on a wide range of textiles and is ideal for professionals who need to fulfil orders quickly without compromising the quality of the final result.

Film "Cold Peel" - When patience is rewarded

The "cold peel" film, on the other hand, must be removed once the textile has completely cooled down. This method takes more time, but it has certain advantages in specific situations.

Advantages of Cold Peel

  1. Results: In general, cold peel film offers a shinier finish than hot peel. It is often preferred for materials or situations where delicate handling is required. It allows for precise printing, particularly on textiles that require special attention.

  2. Robustness: In general, cold peel film can offer better ink adhesion to the textile, which can result in increased durability of the designs, especially after several washes.

Disadvantages

  1. Waiting time: The main disadvantage of cold peel is the waiting time required before the film can be removed. This delay can significantly increase production time, which can be a major disadvantage in fast-paced production environments.

  2. Risk of smudging: If the film is removed too early or too late, the print may be damaged, resulting in smudging or distortion of the design.

Please note: some films have predefined matt or gloss finishes, regardless of the type of removal used.

Ideal application

Cold peel film is recommended for specific projects where print quality takes precedence over speed. It is particularly suitable for delicate textiles or projects where a matt finish is desired.

Tips for successful printing with "Hot Peel" film

To obtain the best results with the hot peel film, it is important to follow a few good practices:

  1. Preparation of the print: Make sure that the textile is clean and free of residue before printing. Good preparation guarantees better ink adhesion and optimal transfer.

  2. Using a heat press: For a successful transfer, it is essential to set the heat press correctly. The ideal settings for a hot peel film are generally a high temperature, moderate pressure and a short pressing time. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations to avoid any problems. To find out more about this equipment, see our guide to the heat press.

  3. Peeling tips: When removing the film, do so smoothly and evenly. Peeling too quickly or too slowly can result in imperfections. Removing the film in one continuous motion and at a constant angle will give you a flawless finish.

Conclusion

The choice between DTF hot peel and cold peel film depends mainly on your specific printing needs. Hot peel film, sold by DTF France, offers speed and quality, making it an ideal choice for professionals looking for efficiency and excellent visual results. Before making your choice, assess your needs in terms of production, quality and type of textile. For more advice on choosing the right film for your needs, read our dedicated article: how to choose the right DTF film.

To discover our products and find out more about the hot peel film, feel free to consult our catalogue or contact our team for personalised advice.