Direct-to-film (DTF) transfer film is a critical material for printing designs directly onto fabrics like t-shirts. The film transfers printed images and patterns onto the clothes. There are two main types of DTF film that enable this direct-to-fabric printing: – Hot Peel film and Cold Peel film. Both films allow transfer of prints onto apparel, but have some differences in their properties and ideal applications. Understanding the distinctions between Hot Peel and Cold Peel transfer films enables selecting the right material for a particular printing job.
The main distinctions between Hot Peel and Cold Peel DTF films are: Hot Peel film allows faster transfer of large prints at lower temperature presses (140–150 °C), while Cold Peel works on more fabric types, has better wash durability, and costs less.
Cold Peel Film:
Cold peel DTF transfer films are designed to be peeled off the garment after they have completely cooled down following the application process. This usually takes about 20–30 seconds. Cold peel DTF printing is often used for projects where a smooth, professional finish is desired.
- Application Process: After applying the DTF transfer to the garment, you need to let it cool down entirely before attempting to peel off the film.
- Benefits: The major advantage of cold peel transfers is that allowing the film to cool down completely results in the most vibrant and visually appealing colors. The curing powder’s adhesive properties fully develop during the cooling process, ensuring a strong bond between the transfer and the fabric.
- Caution: While cold peel transfers offer superior color quality, they do require some patience as you have to wait for the film to cool down entirely before peeling it off.
Hot Peel Film:
Hot peel DTF transfer films can be peeled off the garment shortly after the application process, without the need to let them cool down completely. This means that the carrier sheet is still hot when it is removed. Hot peel DTF printing is often used for projects where a quick turnaround time is desired.
- Application Process: Once you apply the DTF transfer to the garment, you can start peeling the film off almost immediately, without waiting for it to cool down.
- Benefits: The main advantage of hot peel transfers is that they allow for quicker processing as there’s no need to wait for the film to cool down. This can be beneficial if you’re working on time-sensitive projects.
- Consideration: While hot peel transfers offer faster processing, they may not achieve the same level of color vibrancy as cold peel transfers. For the most vibrant results, cold peel transfers are generally recommended.
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Difference between Cold Peel and Hot peel in DTF Printing
To meet different direct to film printing needs and maximize print quality, there are two main versions of DTF film available: Hot Peel and Cold Peel. These films have distinct properties and applications to suit various printing requirements.
The table below outlines the key differences between Hot Peel and Cold Peel DTF films, including their main component, pressing temperatures and times, suitable application materials, transfer size capabilities, cost, efficiency, and wash fastness.
| Hot Peel Film | Cold Peel Film | |
|---|---|---|
| Main Component | Wax | Silicon |
| Pressing Temperature & Processing Time | Pressing at 140-150℃, 5-10 seconds; Cooling 2-3 seconds | Pressing at 150-170℃, 10-20 seconds; Cooling 30 seconds |
| Application Material | All kinds of fabrics | All kinds of fabrics, Perfect for special fabrics such as: tarpaulin, coated cloth, canvas, flannelette |
| Transfer Features | Large images, patterns, such as: T shirt print on front and back | Complex, intricate patterns such as fine lines, small icons, letters with details |
| Cost | More expensive | Less expensive |
| Efficiency | More efficient, up to 100 T-shirt in a hour | Less efficient |
| Washing Fastness | Shorter-term than Cold Peel Film | Long-term water washing fastness |
DTF (Direct to Film) transfer film is a specialty coated film essential for direct to fabric printing. It transfers printed designs onto textiles and other materials. DTF film is typically constructed of 6 layers: a base, release coating, viscose layer, ink receiving layer, protective layer, and antistatic layer.
The main component of Hot Peel DTF film is wax, which helps provide better release from fabrics after transfer. However, wax can be challenging to evenly melt and coat during manufacturing, requiring strict process controls.
Cold Peel film uses silicon as its main component, which is easier to apply as a coating onto the film. This makes Cold Peel film more stable and consistent in the market.
Hot Peel film needs to be pressed at 140-150°C for 5-10 seconds, followed by 2-3 seconds of cooling before removing.
Cold Peel film requires higher 150-170°C temperatures during the longer 10-20 second press time. It also necessitates around 30 seconds of cooling before the film can be removed after transfer.
Both Hot Peel and Cold Peel films can work on all fabric types. However, Cold Peel is especially well-suited for specialty materials like tarpaulin, coated fabrics, canvas, and flannel. These textiles have time to flatten and adhere properly during Cold Peel’s longer cool down period after pressing.
Hot Peel can risk wrinkling or damaging these delicate fabrics, producing lower print quality versus Cold Peel transfers. Consequently, Cold Peel is preferable when high quality, detailed prints with intricate patterns, small icons, and textured transfers are needed.
Read Also: Best fabric for DTF Printing
Cost of Hot Peel Film and Cold Peel Film, Which is Higher?
Hot Peel film is more expensive to produce because its manufacturing process is more complex. Strict controls are required to achieve uniform wax coating and accuracy.
Efficiency of Hot Peel Film and Cold Peel Film
Hot Peel film can be removed nearly instantly after pressing, saving significant time. This allows printers to quickly move to the next garment, with productivity of up to 100 t-shirts per hour possible.
Cold Peel’s higher print quality results in lower efficiency due to its longer cool down period before the film can be removed.
Different Washing Fastness Between Hot Peel and Cold Peel Film
Hot Peel film uses a water-based adhesive coating, which can stick to garments if not removed promptly. It also lacks long-term wash durability guarantees.
Cold Peel’s oil-based adhesive provides better washing fastness.
Hot Peel vs. Cold Peel Film, Which is Really Better?
Overall, Hot Peel DTF film suits high volume printing of large, simple designs on common fabrics like cotton t-shirts. Cold Peel is better for complex, detailed prints onto specialty textiles where print quality is paramount over efficiency.
Though not as complex as choosing a DTF printer, considering key factors like ink absorption, release, storage, and heat resistance helps select the optimal film. But nothing substitutes trying film samples yourself to determine the best match for your direct to film printing application.
Read Also: How to Cure DTF Powder with a Heat Press
What Are The Other DTF Film Types from Different Categorization?
Beyond Hot versus Cold Peel, DTF films can be categorized other ways like by coating method (single or double sided) or visual effects (reflective, laser, glowing, color shifting, metallic).
An in-depth DTF film guide explains the many options and helps identify the right transfer material for your printing goals.
Get DTF Film for Free, Try It Yourself
Testing DTF film samples is the best way to choose the right transfer film for your printing business. Request free samples to compare Hot and Cold Peel performance.
Faq’s
What is a DTF Film?
DTF (Direct to Film) transfer film is a specialty coated material essential for direct to fabric printing. It enables transfer of printed designs onto textiles and other substrates. DTF film typically contains 6 layers: a base, release coating, viscose layer, ink receiving layer, protective coating, and antistatic layer.
To meet varying direct to film printing requirements and maximize print quality, there are usually two main versions of DTF film: Hot Peel and Cold Peel. These different films are formulated to suit specific printing needs and applications. Testing samples can help determine which film is optimal for a particular job.
How to Use DTF Transfer Film?
Using DTF Transfer Film:
- Identify the adhesive coating side and use that side for printing.
- Carefully handle and load the film to prevent scratches.
- Dry the printed film at 40-90 seconds at the temperature specified for the DTF powder (advanced DTF printers automate drying).
- Remove film: immediately for Hot Peel, wait 30 seconds for Cold Peel.
- Store film in a cool, dry environment.
Which Side of DTF Film Do You Print On?
The adhesive coating side should face up for direct to film printing. This side can often be identified by lightly scratching or dropping water on the surface – if the coating is reflective, that is the print side. Gently test small areas to determine which side has the adhesive layer to ensure proper film loading and printing.
Can You Reuse DTF Film?
No. DTF transfer film can only be used once. The specialized coating layers are expended during the printing and transfer process. However, the PET plastic film base can be recycled. Used DTF film may be able to be returned for reprocessing into new transfer film.
Read Also: Best Resolution for DTF Printing
In Summary:
Choosing between cold peel and hot peel DTF transfer films depends on your priorities. If you prioritize vibrant colors and a visually stunning finish, opt for cold peel transfers, even though they require some waiting time. On the other hand, if speed is of the essence, and you are willing to compromise slightly on color vibrancy, hot peel transfers might be more suitable for your needs. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations and perform test prints to determine which type of DTF transfer film best suits your specific printing requirements.
