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Heat Press Instructions for DTF Transfers

Professional method - Recommended for best results

🌡️ 300°F (150°C) ⏱️ 3-5 seconds 💪 Medium pressure
1

Pre-Press the Garment

Pre-press the garment for 3-5 seconds at 300°F to remove moisture and wrinkles. This ensures better adhesion.

💡 Pro Tip: Always pre-press, even on new garments. This removes manufacturing residue and moisture.
2

Position the DTF Transfer

Place the DTF transfer face-down on the fabric. The powder adhesive (textured side) should be touching the garment.

  • Center the design where you want it
  • Make sure the transfer is flat with no wrinkles
  • Check that the entire design is on the fabric
3

Set Heat Press Temperature

Set your heat press to 300°F (150°C) with medium pressure.

Temperature
300°F
150°C
Pressure
Medium
Even distribution
Time
3-5 sec
Per shirt
4

Press the Transfer

Close the heat press and apply pressure for 3-5 seconds. Apply even pressure across the entire transfer.

⚠️ Important: Make sure pressure is even across the entire design. Uneven pressure causes incomplete adhesion.
5

Peel the Film

Immediately hot peel the film while still warm. Peel slowly and steadily in one smooth motion.

  • Do NOT wait - peel immediately after pressing
  • Peel at a 45-degree angle
  • Use steady, even pressure while peeling
  • If any design lifts, stop and re-press that area for 2 seconds
6

Final Press (Optional)

For maximum durability, cover the design with parchment paper and press again for 5 seconds.

💡 Pro Tip: This final press helps ensure all edges are fully adhered and increases wash durability.

🧺 Washing & Care

✅
Wash

Inside-out, cold water, gentle cycle

✅
Dry

Tumble dry low or hang dry

❌
Avoid

Bleach, fabric softener, high heat

🔧 Troubleshooting

Design not sticking?

Solution: Increase pressure or press time by 1-2 seconds. Make sure garment was pre-pressed.

Film won't peel cleanly?

Solution: Let cool for 5-10 seconds, then try warm peel instead of hot peel.

Edges lifting after wash?

Solution: Do the optional final press step. Ensure washing inside-out.

Uneven pressure across design?

Solution: Check heat press platen for warping. I rely on a 0.5 PSI pressure bump when running thicker 7 oz hoodies—the extra weight requires slightly firmer compression for edge adhesion.

Scorching on polyester?

Solution: Reduce temperature to 290°F for synthetic fabrics. Use parchment paper as a heat buffer to prevent direct platen contact.

Pressure Calibration & Platen Care

Proper pressure is critical for DTF success. I calibrate our Houston facility presses monthly using this method:

  1. Place a sheet of copy paper on platen
  2. Close press with medium pressure setting
  3. Try to pull paper out—it should resist but slide with steady force
  4. If paper pulls out easily, increase pressure by one setting
  5. If paper tears when pulling, reduce pressure

Platen Maintenance: Clean platen weekly with isopropyl alcohol to remove adhesive buildup. Replace Teflon sheets every 500 presses to maintain even heat distribution.

⚠️ Safety Protocols

  • Never reach under the press while it's closing—keep hands clear at all times
  • Use heat-resistant gloves when handling freshly pressed garments (surface temps exceed 250°F)
  • Ensure adequate ventilation—pressing releases minor amounts of adhesive vapor
  • Keep a first-aid kit nearby with burn gel and sterile bandages
  • Unplug press when changing settings or performing maintenance

Quick Reference: Settings by Fabric

Fabric Type Temperature Time Pressure
100% Cotton 315-320°F 12-15 sec Medium
50/50 Blend 305-315°F 12-15 sec Medium
100% Polyester 290-300°F 10-12 sec Medium
Tri-Blend 300-310°F 10-12 sec Light-Medium
Nylon 275-285°F 8-10 sec Light

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