🎨 How to Press DTF (Direct-to-Film) Transfers

✅ Overview

Direct-to-Film (DTF) transfers are heat-applied graphics created by printing designs onto a special film, coating them with a powdered adhesive, and pressing them onto garments using a heat press.

This guide walks you through every step of the process to ensure vibrant, durable prints on t-shirts, hoodies, tote bags, and other textiles.

📦 Materials You’ll Need

  • ✅ DTF Transfer (printed on PET film, with adhesive backing)
  • ✅ Garment (cotton, polyester, blends)
  • ✅ Heat Press
  • ✅ Teflon or Parchment Sheet
  • ✅ Lint Roller (for prepping fabric)
  • ✅ Clean, flat surface

📝 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Garment

  • Place the garment on the heat press.
  • Use a lint roller to remove any dust, lint, or debris.
  • Pre-press the garment for 5–7 seconds to remove wrinkles and moisture.

2. Position the DTF Transfer

  • Place the transfer face down on the garment (ink/adhesive side touching the fabric).
  • Align your design where desired.

3. Press the Transfer

  • Cover the transfer with a Teflon or parchment sheet.
  • Lower the heat press with medium to firm pressure.
  • Press using the chart at the bottom of these instructions.

4. Hot Peel

  • Remove the film immediatly after the press is complete.

5. (Optional) Post-Press for Durability

  • Place parchment or Teflon over the design again.
  • Press for 5–10 more seconds to lock in the print and improve wash resistance.

🧼 Aftercare Instructions

  • Wait 24–48 hours before washing.
  • Wash inside-out, cold water, gentle cycle.
  • Do not bleach or use harsh detergents.
  • Tumble dry low or air dry for best results.

Heat Press Settings

Build Gang Sheet

Resources

Buying DTF Transfers in Grand Rapids, Michigan!

Buying DTF Transfers in Grand Rapids, Michigan!

Getting started in buying DTF Transfers in Grand Rapids, Michigan! The screen printing industry has seen considerable evolution over the years, with many printing techniques emerging to enhance both the...

Buying DTF Transfers in Grand Rapids, Michigan!

Getting started in buying DTF Transfers in Grand Rapids, Michigan! The screen printing industry has seen considerable evolution over the years, with many printing techniques emerging to enhance both the...

Best Transfers in Michigan

Best Transfers in Michigan

Why Printed Marketplace Transfers is the Best Place to Buy Transfers in Michigan   When it comes to custom apparel, few things are as important as the quality and reliability...

Best Transfers in Michigan

Why Printed Marketplace Transfers is the Best Place to Buy Transfers in Michigan   When it comes to custom apparel, few things are as important as the quality and reliability...

How to Apply DTF Transfers to Various Materials: A Comprehensive Guide

How to Apply DTF Transfers to Various Materials...

    How to Apply DTF Transfers to Various Materials: A Comprehensive Guide Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing has rapidly gained popularity in the custom printing industry due to its versatility and...

How to Apply DTF Transfers to Various Materials...

    How to Apply DTF Transfers to Various Materials: A Comprehensive Guide Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing has rapidly gained popularity in the custom printing industry due to its versatility and...

Best Place to Get DTF Prints

Best Place to Get DTF Prints

  Why Printed Marketplace is the Best Place to Get Your DTF PrintsIf you're looking for high-quality Direct-to-Film (DTF) prints, *Printed Marketplace* is the best place to turn to for...

Best Place to Get DTF Prints

  Why Printed Marketplace is the Best Place to Get Your DTF PrintsIf you're looking for high-quality Direct-to-Film (DTF) prints, *Printed Marketplace* is the best place to turn to for...