DTF Printing in Cape Coral, FL
Polkabean prints DTF (direct to film) in house in Cape Coral, Florida. Send us your artwork and we print it in full color, press it onto your garment, and ship it or hold it for local pickup. We take orders from a single shirt to a full team or event order.
What is DTF printing?
DTF prints your design onto a special film. The film is coated with adhesive powder, cured, and then heat-pressed onto the garment. The design bonds to the fabric and keeps its sharp edges and bright color.
Because the design is printed on film first, DTF is not limited by fabric type. That makes it the right choice for materials that other methods struggle with.
Best uses for DTF
- Performance and moisture-wicking shirts. DTF works on polyester, which is what most athletic and performance wear is made of.
- Polyester, nylon and blended fabrics that don't take direct printing well.
- Detailed, multi-color artwork. Gradients, fine lines, photos and small text come out clean.
- Team, club and event shirts where every shirt needs the same design.
- Small runs and one-offs. There are no screens to set up, so a single piece costs the same per print as a batch.
- Hats, bags and other items where a flat print area allows a transfer.
DTF vs. DTG: which should you choose?
| DTF | DTG | |
|---|---|---|
| Best fabric | Polyester, performance wear, blends, many other fabrics | Cotton and high-cotton blends |
| Feel | Slightly raised, flexible film layer | Softest, ink sits in the fabric |
| Colors | Full color, strong on dark and light garments | Full color, excellent detail on cotton |
| Good for | Athletic wear, mixed-fabric orders | Everyday tees, hoodies and sweatshirts |
Not sure? Send us your design and the garment you have in mind, and we'll tell you which method suits it. See our DTG printing page for the other option.
What we need from you
- Artwork: a PNG with a transparent background at the size you want printed, at least 300 dpi, or a vector file such as AI, SVG or PDF for logos.
- Garment: tell us the style and color, or choose from our catalog.
- Quantity and sizes: from one piece up.
Don't have print-ready art? Send what you have, even a photo of a logo, and we'll clean it up for you. Artwork cleanup is free.
How ordering works
- Send us your design and details through our quote form.
- We send you a proof to approve.
- We print and press your order in house.
- Most orders ship within 3-5 business days after you approve your proof.
Caring for DTF prints
Wash the garment inside out in cold or warm water and tumble dry on low or hang dry. Don't iron directly on the print. Following these steps helps the design stay bright wash after wash.
DTF printing FAQ
Is there a minimum order?
No. DTF orders can start at one piece.
Can you print on performance shirts?
Yes. DTF is our first choice for polyester and moisture-wicking fabric.
How durable is a DTF print?
When pressed properly and washed as directed, it holds up well to regular wear and washing. It is a flexible layer that stretches with the fabric.
Do you print for churches, schools and businesses?
Yes. We make shirts for churches, VBS programs, ABA clinics, teams and local businesses. See our VBS shirts and ABA clinic apparel pages.
Can I pick up locally?
Yes, local pickup is available in Cape Coral. Contact us for more information.
Comparing methods? Read our guide: DTG vs Screen Printing vs Embroidery: Which Fits Your Order?.
Ready to start? Request a quote or call 941-270-3012.
Polkabean, 2648 NW 9th Ter, Cape Coral, FL 33993.