CCI DTF Powder – Custom Blend Adhesive Premium Hot-Melt Adhesive Powder for Direct-to-Film (DTF) Printing

DTF adhesive powder is a hot-melt thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) compound. When heated, it melts and flows into the fabric fiber structure, then re-solidifies as a flexible adhesive layer. The quality of the TPU compound determines the bond strength, wash durability, and stretch performance of the finished transfer. CCI’s custom-blended formula is engineered specifically for DTF printing — not a repurposed generic hot-melt.

White powder is standard for virtually all DTF applications — it melts clear and becomes invisible under the transfer. Black powder is available for specific applications where white powder might be visible through very thin or sheer dark fabrics, or for specialty dark-on-dark effects. For most shops, white powder covers 95%+ of jobs.

The cleanest method is an automated powder shaker like the STS S-20 — it applies, shakes off excess, and filters airborne particles in one enclosed system. For manual application, work over a containment tray, apply powder liberally over the wet film, then tilt and tap gently to shake off excess back into the tray for reuse. Never apply powder over the printer.

CCI DTF powder typically cures at approximately 135–165°C (275–330°F) depending on dwell time and conveyor speed. When using a curing oven or the S-20 shaker, aim for a setting that melts the powder into a smooth, even, tacky layer without scorching the ink. Always run test strips when dialing in a new powder lot.

Yes — powder that falls off the film and is collected in a clean tray can be reused as long as it has not been exposed to heat, moisture, or contamination. Store reclaimed powder in a sealed container in a cool, dry location. Discard any powder that has clumped or partially melted.

Coverage varies significantly by design size and ink density. A rough estimate for a full 12×12″ CMYK + white print is approximately 5–10 grams of powder per transfer. A 1 kg bag covers roughly 100–200 full-size transfers depending on coverage. Gang sheets with many small designs use powder more efficiently.