General information on PDF and PNG as print files in DTF printing
Both PDF and PNG can be used as print file formats in digital printing. In this blog post, we would like to show you their individual properties.
PDF in general
PDF is a common file format for print files in digital printing. This is because PDF files generally offer higher print quality and colour accuracy than other file formats, especially compared with image formats such as JPG or PNG.
PDF files contain information about fonts, colour profiles and other parameters that are important for printing. This makes it easier to ensure that the printed result meets the customer’s expectations and that the colours and fonts look as they should.
In addition, PDF files can usually be printed at different resolutions, making them suitable for different print formats, from small business cards to large posters. The PDF file retains its quality and clarity even at greater magnification, without losing sharpness.
PNG files in general
PNG, on the other hand, is a raster image format that was primarily developed for use on the web. It consists of pixels and contains no vector data. This can lead to a loss of quality, especially when the image is scaled.
The biggest disadvantages of PNG files:
- Larger file size: PNG files are usually larger than vector graphics or other raster image formats, which can lead to longer transfer times and higher storage requirements.
- Limited colour palette: PNG files have a limited colour palette compared with other formats such as TIFF files. This can be particularly problematic when displaying gradients or fine details.
- Transparency problems: PNG files support transparency, but in some cases, problems with transparency can occur when the image is printed on a particular material, as the transparency may not be displayed correctly.
- Lower print quality: When PNG files are used in digital printing, the limited colour palette and the raster image format can result in lower print quality. This can be particularly problematic when displaying fine details or text. In addition, if the resolution is too low, edges become blurred.
DTF printing with the right file format
DTF printing is a printing process in which a special film is printed in order to transfer the design to the textile. To achieve the best possible result, it is important that the print file you use meets the requirements of DTF printing.
PDF files are generally better suited to DTF printing than PNG files. The reason is that PDF files can contain vector graphics, which offer high precision and sharp edges. In contrast, PNG files are rasterised, which means that the edges of the design are shown with little colour in the pixel. This can make the edges look blurred and cause details in the design to be lost.
Another important factor is that in DTF printing, a layer of white ink is printed under the colours to ensure that light and vibrant colours are clearly visible on dark fabrics. When using PNG files, however, a problem with so-called ‘white flashes’ can occur. A white flash occurs when white ink is printed in a place on the design where it should not be. This can make the design look uneven or incomplete.
The reason for this is that every pixel the RIP software recognises is backed with white. If the edges of the design are rasterised because PNG files are used, this can increase the number of white flashes.
Conclusion
In summary, PDF files are better suited to DTF printing than PNG files because of their vector graphics and the ability to create sharp edges. If you want to use a PNG file, it is important to make sure that the design has a sufficiently high resolution and that the edges of the design are not too heavily rasterised, to avoid white flashes.
