The Magic Touch and Resolute DTG have worked together to launch a new direct-to-film printing option that they say ‘bridges the gap’ between direct-to-garment (DTG), screen printing and traditional transfer printing methods.
The announcement comes after six months where both companies conducted an ‘extensive evaluation’ of all things relating to direct-to-film technology. This assessment concluded that one of the key considerations for garment decorators is the ability to produce short and long-run full colour transfers for garments and textiles, regardless of colour or composition, and compatible with cotton, polyester, leather, softshell, performance fabrics, pique blends, canvas or denim.
Their solution is a new process and a new flagship direct-to-film printer, the R-Jet Pro DTF. The process involves printing a roll-fed, 60cm coated PET film using a pigment based textile ink, then lightly coating the printed transfer with a hot-melt adhesive powder. The transfer is then cured before the transfer is applied to the media using a traditional heat press. There is no pre-treatment required.
Meanwhile the R-Jet Pro DTF features the latest in dual print head technology and is powered using the latest version of Resolute RIP PRO software to ensure control and colour management. The printer also boasts an ink mixing function designed to ensure the ‘perfect circulation’ of white ink and therefore resulting in minimal maintenance or production issues. Its wet cap system means it can be switched off for up to a month without the need to flush out the white ink.
The two companies claim that, for those looking for an affordable and reliable alternative to DTG, their new direct-to-film technology is ideal, also providing the look and feel of textile inks. Jim Nicol, managing director of TheMagicTouch commented, ‘We have previously opted away from DTG for various reasons and indeed passed any enquiry directly to Colin and his team at Resolute, but the DTF process is simply the best new transfer solution for many, many years. With our transfer experience combined with Resolute’s knowledge and experience with DTG we believe we have the perfect combination to market and more importantly support this product beyond customer expectations. This really is a game changer for this industry.’
Both TheMagicTouch and Resolute are to supply the printers and powder units together with the inks, PET film, and consumables.
