DTF (Direct-to-Film) stickers are durable, full-color decals made by printing a design onto a special film using UV-curable ink, which is then transferred to a hard surface via an adhesive film. The UV light curing process makes the stickers waterproof, scratch-resistant, and long-lasting. They offer a vibrant, high-resolution option for customizing hard surfaces like mugs, laptops, and phone cases without needing special coatings, heat presses, or water. How they are made A design is printed in reverse onto a special release film using UV-curable ink. A secondary adhesive film is applied to the printed design. The UV ink is instantly cured with ultraviolet light, which bonds the design to the film. A separate adhesive is applied to the back of the film, making the sticker ready for application. Key characteristics and advantages Durable: They are waterproof, scratch-resistant, and UV-resistant, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Vibrant and high-quality: The process allows for full-color, high-resolution designs with crisp edges and can print on any color surface. Versatile: They can be applied to a wide variety of hard surfaces such as glass, metal, plastic, and wood, notes Transfer Kingdom and wemust.com. Easy to apply: They are a “peel-and-stick” product that doesn't require a heat press, special coatings, or water, making them convenient for users, says Transfer Kingdom and wemust.com. Permanent: Once applied, the adhesive is very strong, and the stickers are permanent on the surface.