Transfers: DTF, plastisol or silicone — which one fits your project?
We produce three types of transfers:
The three types of transfers
DTF transfers
Direct to Film. Full-colour artwork on a special film with adhesive layer, pressed onto the textile. No minimum quantity, no colour limit. Works on virtually any fabric — cotton, polyester, nylon and blends.
Plastisol transfers
Classic screen-printed transfer: the design is first screen-printed onto transfer paper and then heat-pressed onto the textile. Gives an opaque, robust layer — ideal for dark textile and larger runs where screen-print precision is needed.
Silicone transfers
Silicone ink on transfer paper for extreme stretch and adhesion on difficult materials (sportswear, polyester blends, seamless fabrics). Rubber-like finish that moves with the textile without cracking.
At a glance: which transfer fits?
What you need to order
The design
DTF: vector (.AI.EPS.PDF.SVG) or high-resolution PNG with transparent background (300 dpi at actual size). Full-colour and photos no problem. · Plastisol transfer: vector. Colours are Pantone-mixed — supply Pantone codes if you have them. · Silicone transfer: vector. Pantone codes welcome for exact brand matching.
The textile
DTF: works on virtually anything — cotton, polyester, blends, nylon, fleece, softshell. For water-repellent fabrics we test first. · Plastisol transfer: ideal for cotton, blends and heavy-quality shirts. Works excellently on dark textile. · Silicone transfer: the go-to for polyester sportswear, stretch and seamless fabrics where DTF or plastisol may crack or not adhere.
Quantities
DTF: from 1 piece, no minimum. · Plastisol transfer: from 25 pieces. Per-piece price drops considerably at higher quantities. · Silicone transfer: from 50 pieces.
Frequently asked questions
Plastisol transfer is more cost-effective and more durable at larger runs (~25 pieces and up), and gives stronger colour strength in Pantone. DTF wins for small runs, photorealistic designs and fine detail.
Plastisol is classic screen-print ink on transfer paper — opaque, robust, ideal for cotton and dark textile. Silicone adheres better to polyester and stretch fabrics, moves with the textile without cracking — ideal for sportswear and corporate apparel.
With proper wash care (inside-out, max. 40°C, no tumble dry): DTF lasts 30–50 wash cycles, plastisol transfer and silicone transfer 50+ wash cycles — often longer than the garment itself.
Yes, but its value really shines on polyester and stretch fabrics. For a cotton T-shirt, plastisol transfer or screen printing is usually more cost-efficient.
Yes, with DTF. Send a high-resolution file (300 dpi at actual size) and we deliver sharp, colour-true prints. Plastisol and silicone are less suitable for photorealistic work.
Yes. We supply DTF, plastisol and silicone transfers as loose sheets you can press yourself. Useful for resellers, personalisation and seasonal work.
DTF uses water-based inks and adhesive. Plastisol transfers contain plastisol — less sustainable but with longer lifespan. Silicone is free of PVC and plasticisers. We advise per project which balance between impact and durability fits best.
Examples & cases
DTF prints on fashion and kidswear, plastisol-transfer team shirts, silicone-transfer on sportswear and corporate apparel, photorealistic merch and personalised pieces.
[Gallery with examples — Chris adds own photos]
Why Visualprint
Honest advice
Advice on materials and techniques or processes — without preference for one specific technique.
Everything in-house
Screen printing, embroidery, DTF, discharge, sublimation and our specialties. From Pantone colours in direct screen printing to up to 15 colours in embroidery.
Our own R&D
We actively develop our own specials and explore new formulations. Got a special wish? Just ask.
45+ years of experience
Family business with short lines and a wealth of in-house knowledge. Since 1980 in Leidschendam-Voorburg.
Other techniques we offer
Screen printing
Robust and colour-precise. From 25 pieces.
Embroidery
Premium look, durable.
Sublimation
All-over print on polyester sportswear.
Specialties
Foil, multichrome, glitter, high density, glow in the dark, thermochromic, photochromic.
Graphic screen printing
Posters and art prints up to 70x100 cm.
Lead time & price indication
Standard lead time: 5–7 working days after proof approval. Rush orders: possible within 2–3 working days.
Price: depends on size, quantity and complexity. Request a quote for a tailored price.