UV DTF AB Film Guide: Types, Storage and Cost per Label
If you run a UV DTF printer, AB film is your biggest recurring cost — and the consumable most often bought on price alone, which is a mistake. This guide explains what the two films do, how to choose and store them, and how to work out your true cost per label.
What A-film and B-film are
- A-film (the print film): a PET carrier you print onto. The design prints in mirror, with white ink layered under the colour.
- B-film (the transfer/adhesive film): laminated on top of the print. When you apply the label, B-film becomes the surface, and the printed image transfers to the product.
Together they form the "AB film" that makes crystal labels waterproof, scratch-resistant and applicable to glass, metal, plastic, ceramic and wood without heat or water.
Gloss vs matt, and special effects
Gloss film gives a shiny, high-impact label; matt gives a premium, understated look. Holographic, glitter and other effect films convert a plain label into a feature product. Match the film to the market: cosmetics and drinks often want gloss; boutique and gift brands often prefer matt.
Storage matters more than people think
- Store rolls upright, sealed, away from direct sun and heat.
- Keep away from dust — contamination causes print defects.
- Use within the supplier's recommended shelf life; old adhesive film transfers poorly.
- Buy rolls sized to your machine width to reduce waste.
Working out cost per label
Cost per label = (film cost per metre + ink cost per label) ÷ labels per metre, plus waste. Because you print and laminate continuously, your real cost is driven by how tightly you nest labels to minimise film waste. At volume, cost per label falls to fractions of a cent — which is why crystal labels carry strong margins when you price per size tier.
FAQ
Can I use any film with any printer? No — film and machine are tuned together; buy film matched to your printer and ink.
Should I buy the cheapest film? No — cheap film causes transfer failure and reprints, which cost more than the saving.
A-film and B-film: what each one does
UV-DTF printing uses two films in sequence, and confusing their roles is the most common beginner mistake.
- A-film (print film): receives the printed image and holds the wet UV ink. It stays with the print until transfer.
- B-film (transfer base): carries the adhesive layer that will bond the image to the final object. It laminates onto the A-film after printing.
- Storage rules: keep both films sealed, upright and away from heat and sunlight. Warm, dusty film causes adhesion failures that look like ink problems.
Lamination defects and what they mean
- Bubbles under the B-film: usually dust or a rushed lamination. Slow down, use a roller, and work in a clean area.
- Cloudy transfer: the adhesive was applied before the ink fully cured. Add cure time before laminating.
- Film stretching during print: reduce vacuum or tension on the A-film roll; stretched film distorts circles and text.
Need film matched to your machine? Tell us your printer model and monthly volume — we will recommend AB film types and quote rolls with ink together. Get Free Quote | See UV DTF films