Impression DTF et. Vinyle de transfert de chaleur (VTH) — which method is better for custom apparel? For small printing businesses and apparel decorators, this is an important question.
DTF (Direct-to-Film) is a relatively new technology that has gained rapid popularity in the last decade due to its vibrant colors, fine detail, et polyvalence. Before DTF, Vinyle de transfert de chaleur (VTH) dominated the custom printing industry, and it’s still widely used for simple designs and small-batch personalization.
Aujourd'hui, both methods are widely used and continue to transform the custom apparel market. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Let’s break down the differences to help you decide which is best for your needs.
Qu'est-ce que l'impression DTF?
The global direct to film printing market size was estimated at USD 2,720.0 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 3,920.0 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.0% depuis 2025 à 2030. The growth is primarily influenced by factors such as the increasing adoption of advanced printing technologies, rising demand for customized and on-demand apparel, and growing business awareness of DTF printing’s cost-effectiveness and versatility over traditional methods.(Source: Grand View Research, Direct-to-Film Printing Market Report)
Key Market Trends & Insights
- Europe accounted for 36.0% share of the overall market in 2024.
- By type, dedicated DTF printers segment accounted for the largest share of 45.0% dans 2024.
- By film, cold peel film segment held a major market share in 2024.
- By end-product, t-shirts segment dominated the DTF Printing market in 2024.(Source: Grand View Research, Direct-to-Film Printing Market Report)
Market Size & Forecast
- 2024 Market Size: USD 2,720.0 Million
- 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 3,920.0 Million
- TCAC (2025-2030): 6.0%(Source: Grand View Research, Direct-to-Film Printing Market Report)
DTF printing starts by printing your design onto PET transfer film using specialized water-based inks, including white ink for base layers and CMYK for colors.
Après l'impression, TPU hot-melt adhesive powder is applied to the wet design. The powder is then cured using heat, creating a strong bond for transferring onto fabrics with a heat press.
Key components of DTF printing include:
- Imprimante DTF – Specialized printers that produce vibrant, precise designs directly onto film. Xinflying offers models for both small and large-scale production.
- Film PET DTF – High-quality film with an adhesive layer, available in various sizes.
- Encres DTF – Water-based pigment inks that provide bright, couleurs durables.
- Logiciel RIP – Prepares your artwork for the printer and optimizes colors, halftones, and layers.
- DTF Poudre – Adhesive powder that ensures designs stick firmly to the fabric.
- Machine de presse à chaud – Transfers the cured design from the film to garments with controlled heat and pressure.
DTF works well on coton, polyester, mélanges, dark fabrics, and even non-textile surfaces. It excels at complex designs with fine details and full-color gradients.
What is Heat Transfer Vinyl (VTH)?
HTV is a simpler printing method using vinyl sheets. Designs are cut from colored vinyl and then heat-pressed onto fabric.
Required tools and materials for HTV:
- Vinyl Sheets – Pre-cut or customizable sheets in various colors, textures, and finishes.
- Vinyl Cutter – Cuts designs from the vinyl sheet.
- Presse chauffée – Applies temperature and pressure to adhere the design to the garment.
- Teflon Sheet – Protects the design during heat pressing.
HTV produces long-lasting prints suitable for small batches, single-color designs, or specialty finishes like glitter and metallic textures.
Key Differences Between DTF and HTV
1. Flexibilité de conception
- DTF: Unlimited colors, dégradés, et des images photoréalistes. Multiple colors printed at once on one film.
- VTH: Best for simple vector designs and solid colors. Multi-color designs require layering, increasing labor and complexity.
2. Compatibilité des matériaux
- DTF: Works on nearly all fabrics — cotton, polyester, nylon, cuir, blends — and even wood, métal, or ceramic.
- VTH: Mainly cotton and polyester. Blends require careful temperature control; less versatile overall.
3. Production Efficiency
- DTF: No weeding required. Multiple designs printed on one sheet. Efficient for medium to large batch production.
- VTH: Each color and design must be cut and weeded. Labor-intensive for complex designs. Single-color, small batches are faster.
4. Durabilité
- DTF: Withstands 50+ washes, resists cracking and peeling, maintains flexibility.
- VTH: Typically lasts 25–30 washes. Quality varies by vinyl type; may crack over time, especially with multiple layers.
5. Feel & Appearance
- DTF: Thin, fabric-like feel. Minimal bulk, soft to touch.
- VTH: Slightly raised texture; thickness increases with layers. Specialty vinyls may feel plasticky.
6. Coût & Equipment
- DTF: Investissement initial plus élevé (imprimante, encrer, film, poudre), but lower per-unit cost for bulk orders.
- VTH: Lower startup cost (vinyl cutter + presse chauffée), but higher per-unit labor for multi-color or complex designs.
When to Choose DTF
- Photorealistic, gradient, or complex designs
- Large or medium production volumes
- Need for maximum durability
- Diverse fabric types
- Multi-color artwork
When to Choose HTV
- Simple text or logo designs
- Small batches or personalization
- Budget-conscious setups
- Specialty finishes like glitter or metallic
- Quick single-color jobs
Is DTF Better Than HTV?
Both DTF and HTV have their place. Pour high-volume, détaillé, et des impressions durables, DTF is superior. Pour simple, small-batch, and budget-friendly applications, HTV remains ideal.
The choice depends entirely on your business needs, complexité de conception, and production scale.
Choosing the Right DTF Printer
Selecting the right printer is key for your success. Xinflying DTF printers deliver vibrant colors, precise details, and stable performance across fabrics, including cotton and leather.
Avec soutien technique, entraînement, et 24/7 online service, Xinflying helps you maximize productivity, minimize downtime, and ensure consistent, high-quality results for all printing applications.
Data Source: Grand View Research, Direct-to-Film Printing Market Report
https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/direct-film-printing-market-report
