Koala Paper, a China-based supplier of digital printing materials, has developed a PET film for the direct-to-film (DTF) printing sector that is compatible with sublimation inks.

DTF printing typically involves printing a design onto a coated film using water-based pigment inks, applying hot melt adhesive powder, and then heat-pressing the image onto a textile item.

The process has gained traction in the last five years as an affordable and relatively low-maintenance solution for garment decoration, presenting new opportunities for print service providers (PSPs) and facilitating the growing print-on-demand business model.

Market proliferation
DTF technology has already made headlines for obtaining some of the direct-to-garment (DTG) printing market, particularly the low-cost, low-volume end. However, despite its ability to print onto all fibre types, including polyester, DTF technology has not been considered a natural alternative to the transfer sublimation process.

DTF equipment sales have risen sharply since 2020, but according to WTiN data, the sector is showing signs of maturing. Between 2026 and 2030, print production will slow to single digits in China, the world’s largest DTF market.

Koala Paper’s new solution targets users of desktop sublimation printers looking to print onto non-polyester materials, such as cotton and canvas. If successful, it