HEAT. PRESSURE. PEEL.

How to Press DTF Transfers

The exact settings and steps for a print that lasts, plus what to check if a transfer won't stick.

Build a Gang Sheet Artwork guide
Heat press with a DTF transfer lined up on a black t-shirt

Before you press

  • Pre-press the garment for a few seconds to drive out moisture and flatten wrinkles. Moisture is a common cause of poor adhesion.
  • Check your press temperature with a heat gun or test strips if you can. Many presses read hotter or cooler than the dial says.
  • Use even, high pressure. Seams, zippers and collars can lift the platen and leave low-pressure spots. A pressing pillow under the print area helps on hoodies and thick garments.

If a transfer won't stick

If the film peels up with the print still on it, the usual causes are low pressure, a press running cooler than it reads, or not enough time. Press again for a few more seconds with firm pressure, then peel. If edges lift after washing, the post-press step was probably skipped or too short. The full troubleshooting guide is why DTF transfers peel.

Washing and care

  • Wait 24 hours before the first wash.
  • Wash inside out in cold or warm water with mild detergent.
  • Tumble dry low or hang dry. Skip bleach and fabric softener.
  • Don't iron directly on the print. If you need to, iron inside out or use a cover sheet.

THE SETTINGS

HOW TO PRESS.

Press temp
300°F
Press time
10 seconds
Pressure
High
Peel
Hot, right away
Post-press
5 seconds

  1. Cut and place.

    Cut each design from the sheet, leaving a small margin, and place it on the garment.

  2. Press.

    300°F for 10 seconds with high pressure.

  3. Peel.

    Peel hot, right away. No waiting for it to cool.

  4. Post-press.

    Cover and press again for 5 seconds to lock it in.

A household iron works, but the print won't last as long as a heat press application. Use a press for anything that gets washed often. Unpressed transfers keep 6 to 12 months. store transfers flat in a sealed bag, somewhere cool and dry, out of direct sunlight.

GOOD QUESTIONS

BEFORE
YOU ORDER.

Can I use a household iron?

Yes, but the print won't last as long as a heat press application. Use a press for anything that gets washed often.

How long do unpressed transfers keep?

6 to 12 months. Store them flat in a sealed bag, somewhere cool and dry, out of direct sunlight.

KEEP GOING

Why transfers peel Hoodies Polyester Shipping & storage DTF gang sheets

LET’S PUT YOUR IDEAS TO WORK.

GOT DESIGNS?
LET’S PRINT.

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