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UV DTF Guide

UV DTF Ink vs. Regular DTF Ink: What's the Difference?

UV DTF and regular (textile) DTF share three letters but are different printing methods using different inks. Here's a practical, no-hype comparison so you order the right consumables for your printer.

The short version

UV DTF uses UV-curable ink and a two-part A+B transfer film to move a printed, cured design onto hard and curved surfaces. Regular DTF (direct-to-film) uses water-based pigment ink, adhesive powder, and heat to transfer designs onto fabric. Different inks, different films, different end products.

UV DTF ink

Us

What this page's products are

  • UV-curable ink
  • Transfers via A+B film (no heat press needed for the transfer step)
  • Typically used for hard/curved surfaces and dimensional stickers
  • Sold here in 1L bottles: C, M, Y, K, White, Gloss/Varnish

Regular (textile) DTF ink

Our separate DTF line

  • Water-based pigment ink
  • Needs adhesive powder + heat curing/pressing
  • Used for apparel and fabric
  • Sold in our 500mL DTF range

What about White and Gloss/Varnish?

UV DTF commonly uses White as an underbase layer and Gloss/Varnish as a finish layer, in addition to CMYK. We offer both in the same 1-liter bottle format. How much of each your workflow uses depends on your printer and designs.

Shop UV DTF

Browse UV DTF supplies — individual 1-liter inks, build-your-own packs, and complete ink sets. For fabric printing, see our textile DTF ink.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is UV DTF ink? +

UV DTF ink is a UV-curable ink used in UV DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing. The design is printed and cured onto a transfer film, then applied to a product using an A+B film system.

What is regular (textile) DTF ink? +

Regular DTF ink is a water-based pigment ink printed onto PET film, dusted with adhesive powder, and cured with heat to transfer designs onto fabric and apparel.

Are UV DTF ink and regular DTF ink interchangeable? +

No. They are different products for different printers and workflows. Confirm which ink your specific printer is designed for with the manufacturer before ordering.

What colors does UV DTF ink come in? +

USA Ink Supply offers UV DTF ink in Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black, White, and Gloss/Varnish — all in 1-liter bottles.