How do I press DTF Transfers?

Zero, zilch, nada! Order 1 or 1001, we don’t discriminate against numbers. Every quantity is a good quantity in our books!

A gang sheet is a printable document that has multiple designs on it. So you can arrange your designs in a gang sheet that is up to 10 ft long using our Gang Sheet Builder, which allows you to get more transfers for your money. The gang sheet comes rolled up and you will need to cut the individual designs out of the sheet.

DTF, short for Direct To Film, is a precision printing method. Designs are printed directly onto a specialized film, which is then transferred to materials such as cotton, polyester, or linen using a heat press in just 15 seconds. Benefits of using DTF include vibrant full-color prints, sharp detail accuracy, compatibility with various materials, and elimination of manual processes like weeding. It’s an efficient and high-quality solution for diverse printing needs.

Whether it’s the household iron collecting dust in your closet or a top-tier industrial heat press, you can use a range of tools. However, for optimal results, it’s crucial to use a press that can uniformly apply the right amount of pressure across the transfer. For a detailed guide, visit our “How to Press” page.

DTF transfers are remarkably durable in wash cycles. In our observations, transfers can undergo up to 50 washes before any noticeable decline in quality. For longevity, the key is in the application: using an adequate press that ensures even heat and pressure distribution will maximize transfer resilience.

• Format: PNG files are preferred. acceptible file formats: PNG, AI, EPS PDF
• Resolution: Aim for 300 DPI or higher.
• Files: Ensure all imported files are embedded.
• Imaging: Please refrain from mirroring images.
• Background: Use transparent backgrounds exclusively.
• Smallest Text: 10px (.85mm | 0.03in)

Important Note: Heat presses can vary in temperature and pressure settings, so the following are general guidelines. If you are a first-time customer, we recommend ordering a few extra designs to test and determine the optimal temperature, time, and pressure for your press. Please note that a household iron is not suitable for these transfers.

Warning: Do not press the color ribbon running along your transfer roll, as it will not come off the shirt.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Pre-Press the Garment: Before applying the image, pre-press the garment for 5 seconds to remove wrinkles and any moisture trapped in the fabric.
2. First Press: Set the heat press to 290-310 degrees Fahrenheit and apply medium pressure. Place the image in the proper position and press for 7-10 seconds. Note that each heat press may vary, so some experimentation may be necessary for optimal results.
3. Peel Hot/Cold: Our Transfers can be peeled hot or cold. We recommend Hot Peel. For Hot Peel, peel within 3 seconds in one solid motion. For Cold Peel, wait until the transfer has completely cooled and peel with one solid motion. Rubbing the film with a cloth is recommended before cold peel.
4. Second Press: Cover the design with Teflon (for a shiny finish), use the backside of the transfer paper (for a shiny finish), or parchment paper (for a matte finish). Set the heat press to 290-310 degrees Fahrenheit and apply medium pressure for 5-10 seconds.

Note: Applying firm and even pressure is crucial for good adhesion. Avoid pressing over pockets, seams, buttons, zippers, etc.

Adjustments for Different Fabrics:

• Polyester/Blend Fabric: Reduce the temperature to 280-300 degrees Fahrenheit and shorten the press time to 3-8 seconds. These fabrics absorb heat faster. If the transfer is not adhering to the fabric, you can press multiple times, allowing the fabric to cool in between.
• 100% Polyester: Lower the temperature to 250-285 degrees Fahrenheit and reduce the press time to 3-8 seconds. This fabric may require some adjustments to determine the best settings. Practice is recommended to find the proper settings. If the transfer is not adhering, press multiple times, allowing the fabric to cool in between.

• Format: PNG files are preferred. acceptible file formats: PNG, AI, PDF
• Resolution: Aim for 300 DPI or higher.
• Files: Ensure all imported files are embedded.
• Imaging: Please refrain from mirroring images.
• Background: Use transparent backgrounds exclusively.
• Smallest Text: 10px (.85mm | 0.03in)

Our DTF transfers are printed in the United States. We ship from Spring Hill, Fl. which is about 30 minutes north of Tampa. 

Turnaround Times: We will print and ship your order within 3 business days. 

Unleash Your Creativity with Our Simple 6-Step Gang Sheet Creation Process!

1. Choose Your Canvas: Kickstart your design journey by selecting the perfect size and quantity for your gang sheet. This is where your vision begins to take shape!
2. Initiate the Magic: Hit the ‘Build a Gang Sheet’ button. This is your gateway to unleash creativity and bring your ideas to life.
3. Craft Your Masterpiece: Dive into the world of design with our Gang Sheet Builder. Here, you can let your imagination run wild and create something truly unique.
4. Save Your Progress: Once you’re happy with your design, click the ‘Save and Exit’ button inside the builder. Your creation is now ready for the next big step!
5. Perfect Your Vision: Head over to the cart page for a final glimpse of your gang sheet. Feel free to tweak and fine-tune your design here. It’s all about getting it just right!
6. Seal the Deal: All set? Great! Proceed to checkout and get ready to see your custom gang sheet come to life.

Here is a step-by-step video:

1. Clean the Surface:
   • Use a lint-free cloth and rubbing alcohol.
   • Ensure the surface is dirt, oil, and debris-free.
   • Allow the item to air dry.
2. Peel Away the Backing:
   • Carefully remove the backing paper from the decal.
   • Avoid touching the adhesive side to prevent fingerprints or marks.
3. Position the Decal:
   • Position the decal carefully on the desired surface.
   • Smooth out bubbles or wrinkles using fingers or a plastic card.
   • Work from the center to the edges.
4. Apply Pressure:
   • Use fingertips to apply pressure across the design.
   • Ensure a strong bond between the decal and the surface.
5. Remove Clear Carrier Sheet:
   • Gently peel away the clear transfer sheet.
   • Work slowly to avoid lifting the decal.
   • If the decal lifts, push it back down and apply firm pressure before trying to remove the sheet again.