f you’ve been to any craft show lately, you’ve probably noticed something big, more small businesses are switching from traditional screen printing or screen print transfers to DTF (Direct to Film) printing. And honestly, it makes sense. The industry is always changing fast, and DTF is giving makers way more freedom, better quality, and quicker turnaround times.
Here’s why so many vendors are making the jump in 2025.
1. No Screens, No Setup Fees, No Minimums
Screen printing requires lots of prep and generally if you're ordering transfers, large volumes of sheets. If you're making your own, it requires:
• burning screens
• color separations
• cleaning screens
• minimum order requirements
DTF doesn’t need any of that.
You can press one shirt or fifty without any setup cost. Bonus if you have electricity and can customize on the spot. That’s a game changer for craft show sellers who need small-batch designs or last-minute restocks. It also makes testing new designs low-risk.
2. Better for Multi-Color and Detailed Artwork
Screen printing struggles with:
• tiny details
• full color prints
• gradients
• small lettering
DTF handles it all easily.
Because the design is printed digitally, you get clean edges, smooth blends, and bright colors every time. It’s perfect for trendy designs, character art, and anything that needs crisp detail.
3. Faster Turnaround = More Sales
Craft shows move fast. Trends change overnight. Inventory sells out without warning.
That’s where DTF really shines – the turnaround time is lightning fast. At Fuzzy Loon Designs, most DTF orders ship same or next business day, which helps small businesses restock quickly and keep their tables full for the next event!
When you can order transfers today and restock tomorrow, you’re always ahead.
4. Works on Almost Any Fabric
Screen printing looks great on cotton, but it starts getting limited from there.
DTF presses beautifully onto:
• cotton
• polyester
• blends
• canvas
• hoodies
• bags
• aprons
• nylon (with proper prep)
This flexibility matters at craft shows because vendors are offering everything from shirts to totes to seasonal items.
5. Vibrant, Long-Lasting Color Every Time
DTF transfers are durable. They hold up to wash after wash without cracking, fading, or peeling when applied correctly.
For buyers at craft shows, that’s huge, they want shirts that last. For sellers, it means fewer returns and happier customers who will search you out again at the next fair!
6. Small Businesses Can Compete With Larger Print Shops
Because you don’t need expensive equipment to press a DTF transfer, anyone can start their own apparel line from home or expand their craft show setup without a huge investment.
It levels the playing field. It makes it easy for you do to from the comfort of your own home. Often larger shops have long TATs where you can get the sale by
And with gang sheets, you can maximize space and slash cost per print, which increases profit margins.
7. Perfect for People Who Want to Create Without the Mess
No emulsion.
No washing out screens.
No ink cleanup.
You just heat press and go.
Most crafters prefer spending time creating designs and serving customers, not dealing with the mess of traditional printing. DTF keeps things simple and clean.
The Bottom Line
DTF printing isn’t just a trend. It’s reshaping how small businesses run their apparel lines in 2025. With fast turnaround, no minimums, better color, and more flexibility all around, it’s quickly becoming the go-to method for craft show sellers.
If you’re ready to jump in or need to restock your next event, you can order your gang sheets or custom prints here:
→ Fuzzy Loon DTF Gang Sheets (Fast Turnaround & Incredible Quality)
→ Custom DTF Transfers (Ready to Press)
Need help? We’re always here to make gifting (and creating) personal.