Focus on Soft Signage
Soft signage meets DTF: stretching the capabilities
Opening our look at soft signage products is Laura Vodden, marketing executive at YES Group. In this article she explores how direct to film printing is making an impact for sign makers.
polyester or poly blend materials, used for displays, retail graphics, flags, banners, pennants, and trade show signage. Traditionally, sublimation and latex have been the go-to methods. But DTF is carving out space for itself by providing a simpler, more accessible alternative that doesn’t require coated media or pre-treatment. DTF transfers are created by printing a design onto a coated PET film, applying a heat-activated adhesive powder, and curing it before transferring the image to fabric using a heat press. The result is a flexible, durable, and vibrant image with excellent stretch and wash resistance, perfect for temporary textile signage or branding displays that need to travel light.
How sign makers can integrate DTF For sign makers not currently offering garment decoration, integrating DTF might sound like a leap, but it’s surprisingly straightforward. Here’s how to approach it:
W
hen most people think of DTF (direct to film) printing, they picture
high-resolution garment transfers for T shirts, hoodies, or workwear. But the truth is, this technology is beginning to reshape how sign makers approach soft signage, particularly for temporary, flexible, or event, based applications where fast turnaround and visual impact are key. With the right combination of film, adhesive, and printer, DTF opens new creative and commercial opportunities for sign professionals looking to diversify their service offering.
Why DTF for soft signage? Soft signage typically refers to digitally printed graphics on fabric, such as
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1. Start small Entry-level DTF printers are compact, easy to maintain, and ideal for shops experimenting with new offerings. These units are affordable compared to large-format latex or sublimation setups and can deliver professional, quality prints suitable for both soft signage and garment decoration.
2. Choose the right films
When producing soft signage, the choice of film matters. DTF film with a softer hand, feel and flexible adhesive allows transfers to move naturally with the fabric. At YES Group, we recommend our Vividlux Series film for signage applications due to its smooth peel, excellent ink absorption, and high opacity white base, which ensures vibrant
colours, even on coloured or textured fabric substrates.
3. Test on textile substrates DTF works well on polyester-based textiles, which are commonly used in signage. Try it on stretch banners, promotional backdrops, chair covers, pennants or even branded tablecloths. The key is testing your transfer settings (temperature, pressure, and dwell time) to achieve optimal adhesion without over-curing.
4. Add value with short-run on-demand printing
One of the greatest strengths of DTF is its ability to print one-offs or small runs without high setup costs. This makes it ideal for producing limited edition event signage, pop-up displays, or branded décor. For customers who need something fast, custom, and lightweight, DTF delivers.
5. Bundle it with existing services DTF doesn't have to replace anything: it's additive. Many sign shops use it to produce soft signage while also taking advantage of garment printing opportunities, such as branded uniforms, tote bags, and promotional giveaways. This cross-selling potential is particularly valuable when servicing event, retail, or hospitality clients.
The business case for DTF With setup costs starting much lower than traditional textile printers, DTF gives sign makers an easy, low-risk way to expand their offering. Consumables are cost-effective, colour output is consistent, and there’s no need for extensive finishing or post-processing. Whether you’re looking to add textile signage, offer branded soft furnishings, or simply say yes to more custom jobs, DTF printing deserves serious consideration. It’s not just for T shirts anymore: it’s for sign makers ready to rethink what’s possible with soft signage.
www.signupdate.co.uk
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