Not sure whether to use single-sided or double-sided frosted DTF PET film? We’re here to help you choose the best type based on your preferences and setup.
Why are there single-sided and double-sided DTF films?
Single side frosted
Originally, there was only one type of PET film used in DTF printing, which was single side frosted, but some desktop printers didn’t recognise it perfectly at all times. For some desktop printers, this resulted in the printer rejecting it as an intruder media and pushing it through without printing.
The single side frosted PET film is shiny on the back and this meant that some printers’ paper roller did not function well with it, causing the film to sometimes slip, which naturally compromised the printing.
Double side frosted
Double side frosted DTF PET film was developed to address these slipring issues. The double side frosted PET film has frosting on the back (the non-print side), which is better for printer recognition of it.
Further information about the reasoning behind these two types:
The DTF process is still in its infancy and pioneers used modified Epson printers which of course were not designed for PET film, but rather for paper, especially plain paper. These printers have optical sensors which ‘read’ the unique ‘signature’ of the media (the paper), this being its inherent optical properties. When the printer compares the signature of the media being fed into it with other media’s signatures, it knows how to optimise its settings for that particular media. Of course, the PET film did not have an optical ‘signature’ that the printer was designed to configure for, and therefore the printer’s sensors at times treated the DTF PET film as an ‘intruder media’ and pushed it out without printing on it.
DTF double side frosted PET film was developed in early 2021 to address these issues. The back side of the PET film (the non-printing side) was given a frosted coating to enhance recognition and friction/ grip, solving those issues.
We sell the A4 size only in double side frosted type for this reason, as it was just the smallest printers most at risk from these issues.
Differences in outcome between single-sided and double-side frosted PET Film
single-side frosted DTF PET film:
Printed images typically have a more vibrant, shiny appearance compared to those on double-sided frosted film.
Single-sided frosted PET film has fewer layers, absorbing less ink than double-sided versions, resulting in lower ink consumption.
Since it absorbs less ink, the drying time is quicker.
double-side frosted DTF PET film:
Printed images have a slightly more matte look.
The double-sided frosted film offers more resilience, especially in less-than-ideal environments, such as high humidity.
It takes longer to dry, so using a heat plate to ensure proper drying before adding adhesive powder is essential.
This film type resists rejection and slipping better than single-sided frosted films.
We hope this helps in making your film choice easier and supports your decision-making for your printing business!