Your Custom ApparelSupply Destination
Sign In
Need Help?800-891-1094
Ever wondered if there’s a product quietly operating behind the scenes, rarely getting a mention? Well, there is, and it goes by the name of DTF adhesive powder.
So, how many of you out there have heard of it? Or, perhaps a better question is, how many of you know precisely what it’s used for?
Looks like we’ve got some explaining to do!
In this article, we’ll delve into what DTF powder is used for, how it works, why opting for a high-quality one is essential, and where you can get your hands on it.
And while we’re on the topic, we’ll explore the nuances and characteristics that define a good DTF adhesive powder, empowering you to make an informed purchase.
So, keep on reading.
1. Soft Hand – Let’s start by looking at how apparel decorators want their graphics to feel like when applied to textiles. In an ideal setting, the graphic isn’t laid on too thick.
A thick layer of adhesive powder will make the printed area stiff and less flexible. Over time, this may lead to the graphic starting to crack.
As a decorator, that’s the last thing you (or your clients) want to see.
So, what’s the solution? The key lies in using a higher-quality DTF powder. It might not be the answer you were hoping for, but it’s the truth.
DTF powder, such as THIS one, will create a final product that’s exactly what you’re looking for — soft to the touch!
A soft touch means it is thick enough to ensure a strong bond but doesn’t feel so heavy on the textile.
Onto the next one.
2. Aids in Peeling – A high quality DTF powder helps with the peeling process. It releases the film better.
Let us give you a practical example: during a hot peel, an average powder will have a little resistance when peeling the transfer off the garment. Whereas a premium DTF adhesive will have NO resistance during the peel!
3. Texture – Another thing to look out for is texture. The correct texture of a high quality DTF powder adhesive will have an orange peel texture when properly adhered onto your printed design. This allows for the proper amount of adhesive powder to grip onto your garment and gives a solid bond.
Now, let’s move to the next characteristic that defines a good DTF adhesive powder.
4. Adheres to Ink properly – You want a DTF powder that thoroughly adheres to the ink without any formula conflict. Using the right DTF adhesive powder with your formula of ink is key to producing high quality DTF transfers. Powder adhesives should be more opaque using less white ink to absorb the powder. Excellent quality DTF adhesive powder will do this and provide a final transfer that feels good to the touch.
5. Size of Powder granules – There are three sizes of DTF adhesive powder granules; fine, medium, and coarse. And the differences between the three are as follows. Fine particles will not be as opaque on a print and do not adhere well to some materials but produce a soft hand. Course granules create a very heavy hand that feels thick and weighted on the garment. For optimal results, a high quality DTF powder with a medium granule is ideal. This size provides an opaque print, a soft hand, and is more versatile on a variety of fabrics with better adhesion.
Next we want to talk about consistency.
6. Consistency – You want a DTF powder adhesive to offer consistency of thickness of powder on white ink. Too much or too little and your transfers will feel too thick or not transfer at all.
7. Not Clumpy – Clumpy DTF powder means there is too much moisture in the mix. Powder is, by nature, moisture-wicking and needs to be stored accordingly. You do not want clumpy DTF adhesive powder as it won’t work properly with your transfers.
8. Adheres Well – You want a DTF powder that adheres to fabrics with a strong hold. This excellent grip will work on most textiles including Nylon, Neoprene, and other various fabrics.
9. Color Profiling – You want a DTF adhesive powder that works with the color profiling setup on your printer. Color profiling means the way your printer works with the supplies to create a high quality DTF transfer. To have an exceptional color profile, you must make sure your ink, software, film, and powder adhesive are set up to work together. If you change your DTF powder adhesive, you mess with the profile and may experience transfers that have issues working properly or produce a subpar product.
ColDesi offers DTF powders and products that have been specifically color profiled to our DTF printers to work hand in hand. Direct to Film powders from ColDesi have been tested extensively to ensure our powders meet all of the above criteria. They have worked out the challenges in profiling, so you (the customer) don’t have to waste time and money testing various DTF powders.
ColDesi is here to provide you with the best DTF powder you need to help you succeed.
For one-on-one help simply call 800-891-1094 or live chat with one of our pros!
