Stretch DTF
A premium DTF transfer variant engineered with high-elasticity TPU adhesive and softer pigment formulations to flex with athletic, swim, and performance fabrics without cracking. Stretch DTF transfers are common on leggings, compression shirts, swimwear, and spandex blends. They typically cost 20-40% more than standard DTF and require slightly lower press temperatures.
Related Terms
The base material used in DTF adhesive powder. TPU melts at heat press temperatures and re-solidifies when cooled, forming a flexible, washable bond between the printed ink and the fabric.
A thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) powder applied to wet DTF prints that melts when heated, creating the bond between the ink and the fabric. Available in different particle sizes — finer powder for detailed designs, coarser for heavy coverage.
A measure of how many wash cycles a DTF transfer can withstand before noticeable fading, cracking, or peeling. Properly applied DTF transfers typically last 50-100+ washes.