UV DTF is thriving as a technique for personalising a wide range of rigid items. But what about the classic adhesive vinyl? Both have their strengths, so which one is right for you?

If you are starting in the world of customisation or want to explore new techniques, here we tell you the pros and cons of each so you can make the best decision yourself.

What is UV DTF?

UV DTF (Direct-to-Film UV) is an advanced technique that allows the transfer of printed designs onto a wide range of surfaces, such as glass, wood, or metal, without the need for cutting or peeling. What sets it apart is its ability to print high-resolution graphics and vibrant colours, achieving a 3D embossed finish. This technique is perfect for personalising objects with complex shapes or challenging surfaces where other options may not perform as well.

And we have great news! The DTF Station Aries 113 UV DTF Printer will soon be available at Brildor. This state-of-the-art printer offers an exceptional print resolution of 1440 x 2880 dpi, ideal for achieving high-quality graphics with vibrant colours. Its printing speed reaches 15 metres per hour, making it efficient for high-volume productions. It is sure to become an indispensable tool. Stay tuned!

Advantages of UV DTF

• Versatility: Compatible with a wide range of surfaces, including those difficult to customise with other methods.
• Durability: It is scratch and water-resistant, ideal for frequently used products.
• Fine details: Allows for incredible precision in details, ideal for logos and complex designs.
• Superior print quality: 3D effect finish that truly makes a difference, offering vibrant colours and sharp details that enhance the level of any customization.

Disadvantages of UV DTF

• Initial cost: Requires a higher investment in equipment, which can be a barrier for beginners.
• Production speed: The printing process of some machines is slower compared to other techniques, which can be a challenge in large productions.
• Material limitations: Although versatile, it does not adhere well to surfaces with many irregularities or sharp angles. On very curved or angular objects, the ink may crack, limiting its application in these cases.

Endless possibilities

UV DTF printing opens up endless possibilities for personalisation. You can use it to create unique packaging for products or educational materials such as posters and graphics. In the hospitality industry, it is ideal for decorating menus, boards, and decorative elements. It is also excellent for personalising glass bottles, thermoses, and product labels. Additionally, its versatility extends to promotional products, indoor signage, mobile and computer cases, delivering results with great detail and durability. We have prepared a Pinterest board with a collection of ideas for you to explore some of the possible applications:

Follow Brildor's UV DTF board on Pinterest.

What is Adhesive Vinyl?

The adhesive vinyl is a classic in the world of customisation, used for years due to its versatility and ease of use. This self-adhesive material, which can be printed in many cases, is cut into shapes of letters, logos, or graphics and then applied to various surfaces. It is ideal for customising objects with simple designs and solid colours, being a very popular choice for projects such as labels, decoration, and signage.

Advantages of Adhesive Vinyl:

Adhesive vinyl is an excellent choice if you are looking for versatility and ease. One of its greatest advantages is:

• Ease of use, ideal for DIY projects, as it can be applied and removed, in many cases, without complications.
• Wide range of applications, from signs and signage to interior and exterior decoration. At Brildor, you will find window films, decorative and special vinyls according to your needs.
• Economical, ideal for high-volume projects or where frequent changes are required.

Disadvantages of Adhesive Vinyl:

• Lower Durability: Adhesive vinyl tends to be less durable in extreme outdoor conditions, especially when exposed to UV light and weather.
• Detail Limitations: This technique may not be suitable for designs with intricate or complex details. In such cases, the vinyl can be very tedious to weed, and when applying the design, there is a risk that the smallest elements or fine lines may not adhere correctly, affecting the final finish.
• Adhesion: On irregular surfaces, adhesive vinyl may not adhere evenly, which can result in a less professional finish.

Here is the "Vinyl Technique" playlist, a collection of all our videos related to this technique to help you become a professional. We show you how to cut, print, and apply vinyl from scratch:

Which to Choose? UV DTF or Adhesive Vinyl?

In conclusion, the choice between UV DTF and adhesive vinyl largely depends on the type of project you have.

If you are looking to customise items with a durable and high-quality finish, UV DTF is the ideal choice, thanks to its durability and ability to print fine details. On the other hand, if you need a quick and cost-effective process for simple designs, adhesive vinyl is perfect.

Both techniques are valuable tools for any personalisation professional. Discover our options for UV DTF (coming soon) and adhesive vinyl at Brildor to continue impressing your clients.

And you? Do you prefer adhesive vinyl or UV DTF? If you have any questions, do not hesitate to leave us a comment. We are here to help you. Additionally, you can contact our Customer Service team for more information or to resolve any concerns.

Every day we share a plethora of ideas, offers, and updates on various personalisation techniques on our social media. To stay updated, follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Oh, and don't forget to subscribe to this Blog and to our YouTube channel to continue learning with us.

See you in the next post!