DTF labels – iron-on patches
They offer a unique opportunity to apply custom shapes and sizes without the need for sewing. They can be very small or much larger than traditional labels, and their shape is not limited to rectangles – they can take any form, e.g. circles. Such a „label” is flat and adheres to the fabric, which means that it does not stick out and provides complete design freedom while maintaining the clarity of the graphics.
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DTF labels
Modern signage that you can easily apply yourself
DTF (Direct-to-Film) labels are a unique printing technology that allows you to create full-colour, flexible markings on clothing and other textiles. Unlike traditional sewn-in labels, DTF labels are offered in the form of cut-to-size pieces of film that customers can apply to their products themselves. This solution gives you flexibility in labelling your products without having to send them to an external manufacturer. DTF labels provide an aesthetic print effect directly on the fabric, giving you complete freedom to customise your products to your vision.
Applications of DTF labels
DTF labels are ideal for a wide range of applications, both on clothing and accessories. You can use them as internal labels to indicate the composition of the material, washing instructions or country of manufacture. A popular application is to place DTF labels inside shirts, on the back under the collar – on the left side of the material. This makes the label visible through the neck opening, giving the product an elegant, professional look.
You can also use DTF labels on the outer surface of products such as backpacks, caps, jackets, and even large textiles such as mattresses or covers. The transparent background makes the printed elements look as if they were applied directly to the material, giving an aesthetic, minimalist effect.
Advantages of DTF labels
- Stand-alone applicationWe offer DTF labels in the form of cut-out foil fragments, which means that you can apply them to the product yourself using a heat press or iron. This is a convenient solution, especially for smaller manufacturers and handmade brands.
- Freedom of shape and colourDTF labels can be any shape, allowing you to create unusual forms – from classic rectangles to more creative contours that better suit your brand.
- Transparent backgroundThe transparent background gives a „clean” print effect – letters, logos or graphics look as if they are printed directly onto the material, without any additional background, giving a modern look.
- Wash resistanceDTF labels are resistant to washing at temperatures up to 30°C, which makes the marking durable, even with intensive use.
- Aesthetics and comfortAfter application, the DTF label is flat and imperceptible to the touch, ensuring comfort, especially for products that come into direct contact with the skin.
The process of creating and applying DTF labels
- Printing on foilThe design is printed on special film using DTF technology. It is also possible to prepare film with a transparent background, which allows for a „direct” print effect on the material.
- Cutting and delivery of filmDTF labels are cut to the appropriate size and shape, then delivered on a roll for cutting into pieces of film, ready for application.
- Application on the product: The customer attaches the label to the fabric themselves using a heat press or iron, which allows for quick and permanent attachment of the print.
- Removing the filmAfter application, the film is removed, leaving a permanent print directly on the material.
Comparison of DTF labels with other types of labels
DTF labels offer unique advantages over traditional fabric labels:
- Compared to jacquard labelsDTF labels are more flexible in terms of shape and colour. They can take any form, which gives greater design freedom. In addition, the minimum order for DTF labels is 50 pieces, which is significantly less than for jacquard labels, where the minimum quantity is usually several hundred pieces.
- Compared to sublimation printed labelsAlthough both technologies enable full-colour printing, sublimation labels are slightly more durable, especially in terms of resistance to intensive washing. However, DTF labels are easier to apply, making them a more convenient solution for smaller manufacturers.
- Compared to flexographic labelsFlexography works best for care labels and simple graphics, while DTF labels offer greater flexibility in terms of form and a full range of colours, making them more suitable for decorative logos on the outer parts of garments.
Minimum order quantity and customisation options
The minimum order for DTF labels is 50 pieces per design. We offer a wide range of customisation options – customers can choose any shape, colour and size of label, making DTF technology an excellent solution for both larger brands and smaller manufacturers.
Examples of applications
DTF labels are particularly popular as internal markings on T-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets and rucksacks. Their flat, imperceptible structure and full customisation options make them ideal for marking products that are intended to have a modern, minimalist look. They can also be used as information labels containing product details such as material composition, washing instructions or country of manufacture. Thanks to the possibility of self-application by the customer, DTF labels are ideal for brands that want to label their products quickly and conveniently without the need for sewn-in fabric labels.
Summary
DTF labels are a modern, flexible solution for creative labelling of clothing products and accessories. Thanks to their self-application, freedom of shape and full range of colours, they are an attractive option for manufacturers who want to distinguish their products and give them a unique character. The durability of the print, resistance to washing and aesthetic appearance make DTF labels an increasingly popular choice in the clothing industry.
