What Is Direct-to-Garment (DTG) Printing? How It Works and When to Use It
If you’ve ever wanted to print high-quality, full-color images directly onto t-shirts, hoodies, or other garments—without color or size restrictions—...
3 min read
Avery Threadwell : Jul 22, 2025 4:44:09 PM
If you’re researching the STS DTF printer, you’re likely considering investing in a Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing solution that offers exceptional quality, ease of use, and scalability. Whether you run a custom apparel shop, promotional products business, or want to expand your print capabilities, the STS DTF printer is quickly becoming the go-to choice for decorators worldwide.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know:
The STS DTF printer is a purpose-built direct-to-film printing solution developed by STS Inks, a respected name in specialty inks and wide-format printing. Unlike traditional Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printers, DTF printers create transfers you can apply to virtually any fabric—cotton, polyester, blends, nylon, and more.
How It Works (In Simple Terms):
Print your design onto a special film using STS’s DTF printer and inks.
Premium DTF powder is applied to the printed film.
Cure the powder with a shaker/dryer unit like the STS S-20 Powder Shaker.
Transfer the design onto your garment with a heat press.
This process produces vibrant, durable prints with a soft hand feel and excellent stretch.
Here’s why so many businesses are adopting the STS DTF system:
✅ Exceptional Color Vibrancy
STS’s proprietary inks produce bright, detailed images that pop on dark and light fabrics.
✅ No Pretreatment Required
Unlike DTG, DTF doesn’t require pre-treating garments, saving time and reducing mess.
✅ Universal Application
Print on nearly any fabric—cotton, poly, nylon, blends, leather.
✅ Low Maintenance
STS designed their system with user-friendly maintenance, including built-in white ink circulation to prevent clogging.
✅ Faster Production
Quick turnaround with fewer steps compared to traditional methods.
✅ Lower Cost per Print
DTF transfers can be more affordable and scalable, especially for small and medium runs.
✅ Compact Footprint
The STS DTF printer fits into small shop environments without requiring extensive space.
While STS offers different configurations, here are the highlights of the popular STS XPD-724 DTF Printer:
Print Width: Up to 24 inches (ideal for gang sheets)
Resolution: High-definition 720x1800 dpi
Ink System: STS Inks DTF formulated CMYK+White
Software: NeoStampa Neo Stampa Inedit RIP Software available
Integrated Powder Shaker & Dryer: Automates powder application and curing
Output Speed: Approx. 80–100 sq. ft. per hour (depending on settings)
Feature | STS DTF Printer | DTG Printing |
---|---|---|
Fabric Types | Any (cotton, poly, blends, nylon) | Mostly cotton |
Pretreatment | Not required | Required |
Durability | Excellent (stretch, wash-resistant) | Excellent |
Production Speed | Faster for small/medium runs | Slower (pretreatment + curing) |
Startup Cost | Often lower entry-level investment | Typically higher (industrial DTG units) |
Feel | Soft, flexible | Soft, integrated into fabric |
Bottom line: DTF with STS is more versatile and easier to adopt, especially if you print diverse materials.
STS Inks has decades of experience formulating inks and developing print systems that perform reliably. Here’s what sets the STS DTF printer apart:
Fully Integrated System: Printer, powder shaker, dryer, inks, film, and software—all engineered to work seamlessly together.
Outstanding Support: Authorized distributors provide installation, training, and troubleshooting.
Genuine STS Inks: Consistent color and performance, backed by STS’s reputation.
Fast ROI: Lower consumable cost and minimal waste help you recoup your investment quickly.
Q: Is the STS DTF printer beginner-friendly?
Yes. The printer comes with clear instructions and training. Many users with no prior DTF experience are up and running in a few days.
Q: Can I print on performance apparel and synthetics?
Absolutely. DTF excels on synthetics, making it ideal for sportswear, hats, bags, and more.
Q: How durable are the transfers?
When properly applied, STS DTF transfers withstand 50+ washes with no cracking or fading.
Q: What software do I need?
The system includes NeoStampa Neo Stampa Inedit RIP Software, offering color management, gang sheet creation, and queue management.
Q: How do I get pricing and a demo?
Contact Hirsch Solutions and your local representative will happily answer all questions you may have.
If you want to:
✅ Expand into multi-fabric decoration
✅ Lower production time and cost
✅ Deliver bright, durable prints customers love
…the STS DTF printer is one of the best investments you can make for your print business.
Get a personalized quote or schedule a demo today.
Contact Us!
800-394-4426 CARE@HSI.US
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