What is UV DTF?

UVDTF (UV Direct to Film) is an innovative printing process that combines elements of UV printing and DTF (Direct Transfer Film) printing. Let me break it down for you:

  1. UV Printing:

    • UV printing involves using a specialized UV printer that can print with UV ink, including white, color, and varnish.
    • Typically, UV printers can directly print on hard surfaces like glass, metal, and plastic.
    • However, there are limitations when it comes to irregularly shaped or very large materials.

  2. DTF Printing:

    • DTF (Direct Transfer Film) printing is another technique where an image is printed on DTF film using a digital printer.
    • The DTF film consists of two layers: A film and B film.
    • After printing, an adhesive layer is applied to the film.

  3. Combining UVDTF:

    • In UVDTF, instead of printing directly onto hard objects, you print with UV ink (and varnish) onto UVDTF sheets.
    • These sheets act like UV-printed sticker sheets containing one or multiple images.
    • You then peel and transfer these UV “stickers” to various substrates.
    • UVDTF is particularly useful for irregular materials, curved surfaces, and ultra-tall or large objects that are challenging to print directly onto.

  4. Applications:

    • UVDTF prints adhere well to various substrates, including puzzles, canvas, cell phone cases, glass, metal, acrylic, and more.
    • Clean substrate (alcohol is not advised) prior to application. Peel off the back layer and carefully lay on substrate. UV DTF cannot be moved or repositioned once applied so make sure you get it right! Rub down the image and slowly peel back the top transfer layer! 
  5. Shelf Life:
    • Once applied, they should last a long time if properly applied and cared for. Shelf life means sitting on it's original backing and due to these being relatvley new to the scene - shelf life CAN BE 6 months. It has been said that the glue can lose adhesion sitting on its backing. I personally have them longer than 6 months and they are still fine.
TIPS
MEASURE CUP FIRST
  • do not pull carrier sheet upward when removing from cup
  • you cannot adjust once you place it
  • do not soak in water
  • do not clean cup with alcohol before or after
  • no sealing. If using epoxy, residue may cause repelling, so it wont hurt to seal prior to epoxy
  • remove carrier sheet SLOWLY
  • you can cut up design to place on larger cups
  • TELL CUSTOMER CUP CARE!

you can remove images off cup by submerging/soaking in hot water OR vinegar