In the world of sustainable clothing, every detail counts. At Shenty, we don't just select eco-friendly materials for our garments, but we also pay great attention to customization processes, such as printing logos and graphics. One of our most innovative and environmentally friendly choices is DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing. In this article we will explore why we chose this technology and the benefits it brings to both our brand and the planet.

What is DTF printing?

DTF printing is an innovative technique that consists of transferring ink directly onto a special film which is then applied to the fabric using a hot press. This method has quickly become popular in the fashion industry due to its versatility and the quality of the prints it produces.

Benefits of DTF printing for sustainability

1. Reduction of waste

One of the main benefits of DTF printing is the reduction of waste. Contrary to other printing techniques, such as screen printing, DTF printing does not require the use of large quantities of ink or water. According to a study conducted by Printful , digital printing, including DTF, uses up to 50% less ink than traditional screen printing.

2. Using eco-friendly inks

DTF printing uses water-based inks, which are less toxic and more environmentally friendly than solvent-based inks commonly used in other printing techniques. This means fewer emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the environment, helping to reduce air pollution.

3. Energy efficiency

DTF printing machines are generally more energy efficient than other printing equipment. This leads to lower energy consumption, which translates into a reduction in CO2 emissions. A study by the Textile Industry Sustainability Report highlighted that adopting more efficient printing technologies can reduce energy consumption by 30%.

4. Versatility and durability

DTF technology offers high quality, long-lasting and wash-resistant prints. This not only improves the longevity of the garments, reducing the need to replace them frequently, but also contributes to a more sustainable consumption pattern. In an age where fast fashion dominates, extending the life of garments is essential to reducing our environmental impact.

5. Less impact on the water

DTF printing does not require washing of films or screens, as is the case with screen printing. This significantly reduces water consumption and wastewater pollution. According to Water Footprint Network , the textile industry is one of the largest consumers of water in the world, so every step towards reducing this consumption is crucial.

Comparison with other printing techniques

Screen printing

Screen printing, despite being a widely used technique, involves a high consumption of resources. It requires the use of chemicals to prepare the screens, large quantities of ink and a considerable amount of water to wash the instruments. Additionally, VOC emissions are higher than DTF printing.

Sublimation printing

Sublimation printing is another popular technique, but it has some limitations. It is only suitable for synthetic materials, such as polyester, and requires high temperatures to transfer the ink, thus increasing energy consumption. Additionally, sublimation ink may contain non-biodegradable chemicals, which pose a risk to the environment.

Direct digital printing (DTG)

Direct digital printing (DTG) is similar to DTF but requires pre-treatment of the fabric and may be less effective on dark fabrics. Although DTG uses water-based inks like DTF, DTF offers greater versatility in terms of materials and is more cost and time efficient in production.

Conclusions

Our choice to adopt DTF printing is driven by the desire to offer high quality products without compromising our sustainability principles. Thanks to its many environmental benefits and efficiency, DTF printing represents the ideal solution for a brand like Shenty, which aims to reduce environmental impact at every stage of production.

Start with Shenty: Start your journey towards sustainability

If you are an entrepreneur, a designer or simply passionate about fashion and want to create your own personalized garments in a sustainable way, contact us to discover our Start with Shenty service. We offer you complete support, from the choice of materials to the printing of your graphics with DTF technology, guaranteeing you high-quality products with low environmental impact.

Start your journey towards more sustainable fashion today. Contact us and take the first step with Start with Shenty !