Sublimation vs DTF vs vinyl: which file do I need?
Sublimation and DTF both want a transparent PNG at print size — sublimation mirrored, DTF usually not. Vinyl wants a cut file, which means an SVG. Apex stickers ship as transparent PNGs, so they fit sublimation and DTF as-is; for vinyl you trace the PNG yourself — no Apex sticker includes an SVG.
- 01
Sublimation
Dye turns to gas and bonds to polyester or a poly coating. White does not print — it is the substrate showing through — so the file needs transparency where you want white. Mirror the image before printing. Works on light polyester only.
- 02
DTF (direct-to-film)
Ink printed on film with a white underbase, then pressed onto almost any fabric. Transparent PNG at print size; the RIP software adds the white layer. Not mirrored by most workflows — check yours.
- 03
Vinyl (HTV or adhesive)
A plotter cuts along paths, so the file must be vector. Single-color designs cut best; each additional color is a separate layer and a separate weed.
Can I use a wall-art file for sublimation?+
You can — it is a raster at print resolution. It has a full background, so it suits a mug or a panel, not a shirt where you want the fabric to show.
Which method for a full-color sticker design on a dark shirt?+
DTF. Sublimation cannot print on dark or cotton; vinyl cannot do full color economically.
Do I need an SVG for DTF?+
No. PNG is the right file.
- —Apex does not ship SVG cut files for any sticker — for vinyl, plan on tracing the PNG.
- —It does not include press settings; those come from your film, ink and press.
PNGs that DTF printers want.
Transparent, 300 DPI, clean edges — the sticker catalog is the DTF-ready one.