Understanding the differences between DTF, Subli, and Vinyl can be frustrating for customers, so we are going to do our best to keep it simple and explain how each method affects the design, fabric, and durability.
DTF Printing
DTF prints a full-color design onto a special film, which is then heat-pressed onto fabric. It works on any material and any color. The design is flexible, detailed, and long-lasting.
✅ Best for: Cotton, Polyester, and Blends
✅ Feel: Soft but slightly textured where the design is
✅ Durability: Long-lasting, stretch-resistant, won’t crack easily
✅ Colors: Vibrant on any fabric color, including black
Subli Printing
Sublimation dyes the fabric instead of placing a layer on top. It gives a super smooth, breathable feel, but only works on light-colored polyester. It won’t work on cotton or dark fabrics.
✅ Best for: 100% Polyester
✅ Feel: No texture – ink is infused into the fabric
✅ Durability: Won’t peel or crack (becomes part of the fabric)
✅ Colors: Super vibrant but only works on light-colored fabrics
Vinyl Printing
Vinyl is cut from a sheet and pressed onto fabric. It’s great for solid-colored designs but doesn’t generally allow for full-color prints like DTF or sublimation. We have a process that can combine sublimation with vinyl for images that need to cover more surface area on the shirt.
✅ Best for: Cotton, Polyester, and Blends
✅ Feel: Thicker, slightly raised texture
✅ Durability: Long-lasting, stretch-resistant, won’t crack easily
✅ Colors: Limited to solid colors unless layered, but does allow for different textures, such as glitter, metallic, puff, etc.
| FEATURE | DTF | SUBLI | VINYL |
| Use on Cotton? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Use on Polyester? | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Dark Colors? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Feel of Design | Soft, Slight Texture | No Texture (Ink in Fabric) | Thicker, Raised |
| Durability | High | Very High | High |
| Full Color Prints | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
How to Choose?
•If you want full color on any fabric, go with DTF.
•If you want a smooth, permanent design but only on light polyester, choose sublimation.
•If you want solid colors and a textured feel, vinyl is a great choice.
Don't worry, at TUDS, once we have your design/image we will determine the best process that meets your needs!!