As UV DTF printing continues to gain momentum across the digital printing industry, crystal labels have become one of the most profitable and flexible applications. From customized packaging to branded promotional products, crystal labels deliver a premium look with a simple transfer process.
At the heart of this technology lies Crystal Label AB Film—a critical consumable that directly affects print quality, transfer success, and production efficiency. Understanding how AB film works and how to choose the right type is essential for anyone operating a crystal label printer or UV DTF printer.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about crystal label AB film, from structure and workflow to selection tips and real-world applications.
Crystal label AB film is a specialized UV DTF printing consumable used to produce crystal labels, also known as UV transfer labels or crystal stickers. It works as a two-layer film system that enables printed designs to be transferred onto various surfaces without heat pressing.
The complete crystal label process relies on UV oil-based ink, white ink, and varnish printed onto the film, followed by lamination and manual application. The result is a high-gloss, raised, and durable label that adheres smoothly to glass, plastic, metal, wood, and many other materials.
Because of its ease of use and strong visual impact, crystal label AB film has become indispensable in modern UV DTF printing workflows.
Unlike traditional sticker materials, crystal label AB film is designed specifically for UV DTF crystal label production. It allows printers to achieve:
No-heat transfer application
High transparency and gloss
Strong adhesion without residue
Excellent color vibrancy and detail
Wide material compatibility
Without the correct AB film, even the best UV DTF printer cannot deliver consistent, professional crystal labels. This makes film selection just as important as printer configuration.
Crystal label AB film consists of two separate but complementary films: A Film and B Film. Each plays a distinct role in the printing and transfer process.
The A film is the primary printing layer and is made up of two functional components:
PET base film: Provides structural stability during printing
Ink-absorbing glue layer: Receives UV ink, white ink, and varnish
During printing, the UV DTF printer deposits ink in a precise sequence:
White ink
Color ink (CMYK)
UV varnish
This layered structure creates the signature crystal label effect—clear edges, raised texture, and strong visual depth.
The B film is a single-layer laminating film that is applied automatically after printing. Its role includes:
Protecting the printed design
Stabilizing the ink layers
Assisting with smooth pattern transfer
Once laminated, the A and B films work together to ensure the label can be transferred cleanly without distortion or tearing.
Understanding the workflow helps avoid material waste and printing errors.
Designs are printed onto the A film using a UV DTF printer with white ink, color ink, and varnish.
The printer or laminating device applies the B film over the printed surface.
When applying the label, the A film is peeled away, exposing the adhesive-backed design.
The exposed design is pressed onto the target object.
The B film is peeled off, leaving the crystal label perfectly attached.
This simple process makes crystal label printing accessible even for beginners.
Crystal labels are popular because they do not require heat or special tools. However, correct handling ensures optimal adhesion:
Clean the target surface before application
Apply even pressure when transferring
Peel films slowly to avoid edge lifting
Avoid dusty or humid environments during application
When done correctly, the label appears seamless, glossy, and highly durable.
Selecting the right UV AB film directly impacts print success, especially as demand for UV DTF consumables continues to grow.
AB films typically come in 100-meter rolls, with common widths including:
30 cm
60 cm
Always match the film width to your UV DTF printer’s printing width to prevent misalignment or waste.
Most crystal label AB films are transparent, which is ideal for clear, floating designs. However:
White A film is also available
Easier for beginners to identify printed areas
Improves visibility during application
Choosing transparency depends on operator experience and design preference.
While standard B film is transparent, special finishes are also available, such as:
Gold B film
Silver B film
Specialty decorative films
These options allow businesses to create differentiated crystal labels for premium branding applications.
Many print shops encounter issues due to low-quality or incompatible film. Common problems include:
Poor ink adhesion
Bubble formation
Edge lifting after transfer
Yellowing over time
These issues often stem from inferior materials rather than printer settings.
Crystal labels produced with high-quality AB film are widely used in:
Cosmetic packaging
Beverage bottles
Glass containers
Electronic accessories
Promotional gifts
Branded retail products
Their versatility makes crystal labels a fast-growing segment in the UV DTF printing market.
Premium AB film ensures:
Stable ink absorption
Clean peeling performance
Strong adhesion across materials
Consistent gloss and texture
For businesses scaling UV DTF printing operations, film quality directly affects customer satisfaction and repeat orders.
TODOjet crystal label AB film is engineered to meet professional production standards. It offers:
Reliable ink compatibility with UV DTF printers
Multiple width and color options
Stable lamination performance
Consistent quality for bulk production
Whether you are producing standard crystal stickers or premium decorative labels, TODOjet provides a complete UV DTF consumables solution.
Crystal label AB film is not just a consumable—it is the foundation of successful UV DTF crystal label printing. By understanding its structure, workflow, and selection criteria, businesses can significantly improve print quality, efficiency, and product value.
Choosing the right AB film means fewer errors, better adhesion, and a stronger competitive edge in the digital printing market. With the right materials and a reliable supplier like TODOjet, crystal label production becomes a scalable and profitable business opportunity.