Step-by-Step Guide to Apply UV DTF Transfers

2025-02-19

Traditional DTF (direct-to-film) transfer technology is mainly used for textile fabrics (such as T-shirts and hats), and the pattern is bonded to the fabric through hot melt adhesive powder. But UV DTF transfers are mainly used for hard surface objects, such as mobile phone cases, metals, glass, plastics, ceramics, etc., giving them unprecedented three-dimensionality and sophistication, completely changing the game rules for personalized customization of hard surface objects!

In this article, we will introduce the specific process and steps of UV DTF transfers printing in detail to help you easily master this technology.

What is UV DTF Transfer?

UV DTF transfer is a printing method that directly prints the pattern on a special AB film and then transfers the pattern to the object’s surface through UV curing technology.

Among them, the A film is used as a printing carrier to carry the printing task of the pattern; the B film is used as a protective layer, which is closely combined with the A film to form the complete structure of the transfer pattern.

Then, through ultraviolet irradiation, the resin component in the ink is quickly cured, so that the pattern and the AB film are closely combined to produce durable prints.

UV DTF Transfers Required Materials

UV DTF printer/UV DTF sticker printer

Equipped with nozzles and inks, it can print with high precision to ensure the clarity and color saturation of the pattern.

UV DTF film (AB film)

A film is used as a printing carrier to print the pattern; B film is used as a protective layer, which is closely combined with A film to form the complete structure of the transfer pattern.

This film has excellent flexibility and adhesion and is suitable for transfer printing on various hard surfaces.

UV ink

After curing, it has strong adhesion and high weather resistance, ensuring that the printed pattern is bright and scratch-resistant.

Hard surface object

This is the target object of UV DTF transfers, which can be any hard object that needs personalized decoration, such as mobile phone cases, glass cups, thermos cups, metal boxes, etc.

Specific Steps: How to Apply UV DTF Stickers?

Step 1: preparation

First, clean the work area to ensure that there is no dust and impurities. This is an important prerequisite for ensuring printing quality and transfer effect.

Step 2: printing pattern

Use design software to create or edit the pattern you want to ensure that it meets your personalized needs. Then import the designed pattern into the UV DTF printer, adjust the print settings, and print the pattern on A film.

Step 3: lamination and curing

(1) Lamination: the automatic laminator covers the B film on the printed A film. Make sure that the B film fits tightly to the A film without bubbles and wrinkles.

(2) Curing the pattern: the pattern after curing will be more firmly attached to the AB film, ready for the subsequent transfer process.

Step 4: cutting the pattern

Use scissors or cutting tools to cut the printed pattern from the A film. Make sure that the cutting edges are neat and burr-free so that it can better fit the target object.

Step 5: transfer

(1) Tear off the A film (located on the back of the pattern), and then align the pattern with the surface of the target object.

(2) Press the pattern gently with your fingers or a scraper to ensure that it fits tightly to the surface of the target object.

(3) Tear off the B film (located on the front of the pattern). At this time, the pattern has been successfully transferred to the target object.

Popular Uses of UV DTF Transfers

UV DTF transfers have the advantages of a strong three-dimensional sense, exquisite patterns, convenient transfer, and flexible order acceptance. It can meet the personalized needs of different customers and is widely used.

Electronic products: mobile phone cases, tablet cases, headphone cases, etc.
Customized cups: glass cups, mugs, plastic bottles, ceramic cups, thermos cups, etc.
Commercial signs: metal signs, acrylic display boards, small store logos, etc.
Home decoration: ceramic plates, coasters, wall stickers, furniture stickers, etc.
Promotional products: metal pens, key chains, etc.
Car interiors: car stickers, interior decorations, etc.

Precautions for UV DTF Transfers

Operating environment

Keep the working area clean to avoid dust and impurities that affect the print quality and transfer effect.

Material selection

Make sure to use high-quality UV DTF AB film and UV ink to obtain the best transfer effect. At the same time, pay attention to selecting material specifications and models that suit your product characteristics and needs.

Equipment maintenance

Regularly check and maintain UV DTF printer and related equipment to ensure their normal operation and extend their service life. In particular, consumable parts such as print heads and UV curing lamps need to be replaced and maintained regularly.

Conclusion

UV DTF transfers are becoming the new favorite in the personalized customization industry due to their high compatibility with hard surface objects, convenient operation, and professional-level effects.

Whether you are a small studio or a large manufacturer, mastering this technology, you can easily apply it to your own products to enhance the added value and market competitiveness of your products.

In addition, KingJet is an 18-year professional digital printer manufacturer, If you still don’t know how to do UV DTF transfers, welcome to contact the professional KingJet team.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply UV DTF Transfers

2025-02-19

Table of Contents

What is UV DTF Transfer?