While neither requires cutting or weeding, there are some big differences between the two. Read on for a list of pros and cons for each, along with a brief comparison of sublimation vs DTF transfers.
If you're not yet clear on how the two processes actually work, start with Sublimation vs DTF: what is the difference? for the full side by side. This post is about which one to pick.
Since most people are more familiar with sublimation we'll start with the pros and cons of sublimation.
Sublimation Pros and Cons
There are a lot of benefits of sublimation printing. A sublimation printer can produces high-quality, vibrant, and long-lasting transfers. The transfers can be used on both hard goods and garments.
Because sublimation ink is infused into the material, there is no hand. In other words, you can not feel the image when it's transferred.
Sublimation also allows for a wide range of colors and intricate details because you are simply printing and pressing and there's no cutting or weeding involved.
Sublimation printers are also the cheaper and lower maintenance of the two. Machines like the Brother SP1, Sawgrass SG500, and the 24" Epson F570 don't need daily printing the way a DTF printer does.
The biggest downside to sublimation is its limitations to materials. You must have have a high polyester or polymer-coated substrates in order to transfer the sublimation ink from the printed sheet to the substrate. That means natural fabrics like cotton and non coated surfaces do not work directly with sublimation.
Secondly, because a sublimation printer can not print white ink, sublimation is limited to light colored substrates. You can not sublimate directly onto dark colored fabrics or surfaces.
DTF Transfer Pros and Cons
Sublimation's biggest drawbacks are DTF transfers biggest benefits. DTF transfers - whether you print them yourself or outsource - are compatible and can be used on a wide range and colors of fabrics including cotton, polyester and blends.
In addition, because direct to film printers can print white ink, there is no limitation to color. Direct to Film transfers can be quickly and easily pressed on any color garment including black!
Like sublimation transfers, direct to film transfers are cutless and weedless so you can get a lot of detail.
There are some drawbacks to DTF transfers though. DTF transfers work best on fabrics and garments, rather than hard goods, although I have had some luck applying t shirt transfers to journals, canvas and wood.
When applied, the transfers sit on top of the fabric so there is a hand. This means there is a chance for peeling or cracking if not applied or laundered correctly.
DTF printers are also usually more expensive than sublimation printers and require a lot of maintenance. If not printed on daily direct to film printers tend to get clogged with ink - specifically the white ink. If not maintained correctly or routinely a DTF printer can be a real headache.
So which is best?
It depends less on which process is better and more on what you're actually making. Here's how I'd decide.
Go with sublimation if you're making tumblers, mugs, drinkware, luggage tags, photo panels, or anything hard. Also if your garments are light colored polyester or poly blends, if you want a transfer with no hand at all, or if you want the lower startup cost and the machine that won't punish you for not printing every day.
Go with DTF if you're selling shirts. Cotton, dark colors, or any color garment, and full color designs without layering. If t shirts are the business, DTF is the answer and sublimation will keep boxing you in.
Go with neither, at least at first, if you're still figuring out whether the product sells. You can outsource DTF transfers without owning a printer at all, and that's often the smarter first move. A DTF printer that sits unused is a DTF printer with clogged heads.
Go with both if you're running a real product line across drinkware and apparel. They're not competing, they cover different ground.
For the full spec by spec breakdown, head over to sublimation vs DTF: what is the difference?
Which printer should you buy?
If you've landed on DTF, the machine you pick matters more than the process does. I've tested a lot of them and put my picks in one place: best DTF printer for small business.
If you've landed on sublimation, start here for sublimation printers and how they compare.
Ultimately, the choice between sublimation and DTF transfers depends on the substrate, the type of materials you plan to print on, and your budget constraints.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. By clicking on them and purchasing products through my links, I receive a small commission. That's what helps fund Silhouette School so I can keep buying new Silhouette-related products to show you how to get the most out of your machine!
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