What Kind of Powder Is Used for DTF Printing

Got a DTF printer or planning to step into DTF printing? One of the first ingredients you will come across is DTF powder. It might appear as another powder that you can use casually, without paying much attention.

But, in reality, DTF powder is one of the most important factors that can make or break your printing journey. Many of the common issues with DTF printing (weak adhesion, cracking, or fading) are linked to either using the wrong powder or misapplying it.

So, what is the best DTF powder to use? This article explores the role of DTF powder, the different compositions and types available, and the best choices that will help you achieve professional-quality results every time.

What is DTF Powder?

DTF powder is a hot-melt adhesive (mixture of polymers + additives) that melts under heat, forming a “magic glue” that bonds the ink printed on a special film directly to the fabric fibers.

The powder is applied to the wet ink on the DTF transfer film and then cured through heating in an oven. And since DTF transfer is heat-pressed, it melts and activates the powder, forming a strong bond with the fabric.

Types of DTF Powder

DTF powder is not an inert dust. It is made from polymers – TPU, PA, PES – combined with additives that adjust properties like elasticity, wash resistance, melting point, and flow.

DTF powder has different classifications. One based on the fundamental polymer, the second based on particle size, and the third based on color. Let’s walk through all these types and their strengths.

By Composition

DTF powder is typically made from one of three base polymers:

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) Powder: Most popular due to elasticity and durability, compatible with most fabrics, especially stretchy ones, as in sportswear.

PES / Polyester-based powder: It is more rigid, gives stronger bonding and good wash resistance, though less stretch. Useful for polyester fabrics, or when you need durability over flexibility.

PA (Polyamide / Nylon): This powder is a balance between strength and flexibility, though it is less common than TPU or PES. It is recommended for applications where you need more resistance to wear, particularly on nylon items. 

By Particle Size

By Particle SizeThe same material powder comes comes in different particle sizes, each designed for different types of applications:

Fine DTF Powder (0-70 microns): You can consider its particles as fine as flour. It has a soft finish but is less resistant to humidity and abrasion. Works best for detailed prints, small letters, sharp lines, and fine artwork.

Medium DTF Powder (70-170 microns): Particle size nearly similar to salt. It’s the most versatile and commonly used, offering a good balance of adhesion, softness, and durability. Such powder is recommended for cotton, mixed fabrics, hoodies, sportswear, and most projects.

Coarse DTF Powder (120-240 microns): Strongest grip and lasts longest, suited for thick, textured fabrics like denim or when a three-dimensional effect is required. It can create a rough feel and is good for high-usage items.

By Color

DTF powder is available in both black and white forms. Here’s how each differs:

White DTF Powder: It works well on clothes of any fabric color but is particularly suited for white or light-colored garments. Though it’s suitable for most colors, it has a relatively weaker covering effect compared to black powder.

Black powder: It is primarily made of TPU rubber powder combined with activated carbon. Black hue makes it ideal for black or dark-colored clothes and is widely used on polyester, luggage, and similar fabrics.

Differences Between DTF Powder and Regular Powder

Unlike other heat transfer printing methods, DTF is a unique case that requires adhesive powder as part of the process. For instance, sublimation and DT do not rely on powder at all, and if powders are ever used with them, it is usually in a very specific context, maybe as experimental coatings or fabric treatments, not as a standard step in the workflow.

Now, DTF powder is a hot-melt adhesive, meaning it is designed to melt under heat and create a strong bond between the printed ink and the fabric. This adhesive property is what gives DTF prints their durability, flexibility, and wash resistance.

In contrast, any regular powder, being inert and non-adhesive, does not have any constituents with the ability to melt and form a bond. So, using a non-adhesive powder in place of DTF powder would result in poor adhesion or complete transfer failure.

Best DTF Powder for Recommendation

With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which DTF powder to choose. The right answer depends on your priorities, but one constant is that the powder must be high quality and selected with your fabric or surface in mind. To help narrow the choice, here is a short list of some of the top options available today.

xTool DTF Powder: Premium Choice

For those who want professional-grade results, xTool DTF powder is one of the most reliable options. It’s priced at $39 per kg and specially designed to work with our automated equipment, the xTool Automatic Shaker and curing oven.

Its DTF transfers withstand between 50 and 100 washes without losing adhesion. Suited for all types of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, silk, synthetics, and even leather.

CenDale DTF Powder

CenDale powder is made from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), which gives it excellent softness and elasticity, making it suitable for garments that stretch. It is priced at $28 per kilogram and has a particle size range of 80–200 microns. Another advantage is that it works with both hot peel and cold peel films.

Godora DTF Powder

Godora’s powder is available for $29 per kilogram. It delivers waterproof and flexible adhesion that prevents cracking and peeling even after repeated use. It resists scratches very well and doesn’t turn yellow, helping designs maintain their clarity.

Welacer DTF Powder

Welacer provides a balanced option that combines affordability and reliable quality. Sold at $23, it features an 80–200 micron size that supports detailed prints while ensuring solid adhesion. It is also acompatible with automated shakers and curing ovens.

Yamation Powder: Value Pick

Yamation is the budget-friendly choice for those who need consistent results at scale. It is made from 100 percent high-purity polyurethane, yet is available for $20 per kg. With a finely controlled 120 mesh classification, it spreads evenly and produces a smooth adhesive layer.

FAQs Related to DTF Powder

Can I use DTG powder for DTF? 

DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printing does not use powder at all, as the ink is applied directly to fabric and cured with heat. In contrast, DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing requires adhesive powder to bond the printed design from film onto fabric. Since DTG has no equivalent powder, you cannot substitute one for the other. 

How should I store my DTF powder?

DTF powder should be stored much like you would store DTF transfer films, in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Always seal the container tightly after use, as the powder can easily absorb humidity from the air, which reduces its performance during printing

Is finer powder always better? 

No, fine powder is not always better. It’s mostly preferred because it creates a smoother hand feel and can capture detailed artwork or small lettering more effectively. However, it is also more sensitive to humidity, making it prone to clumping. In addition, finer powder may stick to blank areas of the film, which casn cause unwanted specks on the final print.