Full-Color Custom Prints
DTF Printing in Rutherfordton, NC
When your design needs vibrant, full-color detail that embroidery cannot deliver, DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing is the answer. Large back-of-shirt graphics, photographic artwork, complex multi-color logos, and lightweight apparel all print beautifully with DTF. And because we also do embroidery, you can get a professional embroidered logo on the front and a full-color DTF design on the back, all from one shop.
What Is DTF Printing?
Direct-to-Film printing transfers your design onto a special film, which is then heat-pressed directly onto the fabric. The result is a smooth, flexible print with sharp detail and colors that hold up through washing. Unlike screen printing, there is no minimum run and no color limit. Unlike sublimation, DTF works on cotton, polyester, blends, and dark fabrics.
Perfect For
- Large back designs on t-shirts
- Full-color artwork and photographic prints
- Detailed logos and complex graphics
- Lightweight apparel where embroidery would be too heavy
- Designs that are not ideal for embroidery
- Small runs and one-off custom pieces
Standard Sizes and Placement
| Placement | Finished Size | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Pocket Logo | 3" x 3" | Small business logo |
| Left Chest | 4" x 4" | Company and work shirts |
| Youth Front | 7" x 7" | Youth shirts |
| Adult Front | 10" x 10" | Standard front design |
| Adult Wide Front | 11" x 8.5" | Wide logos and designs |
| Adult Back | 12" x 15" | Large back design |
| Oversized Front or Back | 13" x 15" | Large statement design |
| Long Sleeve | 3" x 10" | Names, logos, wording |
Not sure what size you need? Send us your artwork and we will recommend the best placement and size for your project.
Embroidery + DTF: One Shop, More Options
Most DTF shops are print-only. Most embroidery shops do not offer DTF. ALC Embroidery does both, which means you do not have to coordinate between two vendors for a single order. Need your company logo embroidered on polo shirts for the office and a full-color event graphic printed on t-shirts for the weekend? One order, one point of contact, one turnaround.
See All ServicesFront
Professional embroidered logo
Back
Full-color DTF design
Common Questions About DTF Printing
What is DTF printing?
DTF stands for Direct-to-Film. Your design is printed onto a special transfer film, then heat-pressed onto fabric. The result is a vibrant, flexible, full-color print that works on cotton, polyester, blends, and dark or light fabrics. No color limits and no minimum order.
Is DTF better than embroidery?
They serve different purposes. Embroidery is best for logos, professional apparel, and items that need a textured, premium look. DTF is best for large designs, full-color artwork, and lightweight garments. We offer both, so we can recommend the right method for your project.
How long do DTF prints last?
DTF prints are durable and designed to withstand regular washing. The transfer bonds to the fabric through heat and pressure. With proper care (wash inside out, tumble dry low), your prints will stay vibrant through many washes.
What file format do I need for DTF printing?
High-resolution PNG or PDF files work best. For the sharpest results, provide artwork at 300 DPI at the finished print size. If you are not sure about your file quality, send us what you have and we will let you know if it needs adjustments.
Do you offer DTF printing with no minimum order?
Yes. Whether you need one custom shirt or a hundred, we handle orders of any size. No minimums, no setup fees for repeat designs.
Can I get embroidery on the front and DTF on the back of the same shirt?
Absolutely. This is one of the advantages of working with ALC Embroidery. We do both in-house, so combining embroidery and DTF on a single garment is simple and does not require coordinating with a second vendor.
Ready to bring your design to life?
Tell us about your project and upload your artwork.
Or call Linda directly at 303-652-7061.