DTF Transfer Pressing Guide

DTF Transfer Application Guide

⚠️ Important: Results depend on your heat press, material, and technique. These are starting guidelines—test on similar material first.

Standard Pressing Parameters

General Settings (Most Fabrics)

  • Temperature: 300-320°F
  • Time: 8-12 seconds
  • Pressure: Medium to High (40-60 PSI)
  • Peel: Hot peel (after pressing)

Optional Second Press

For enhanced durability, apply second press:

  • Same temperature (300-320°F)
  • Same pressure (40-60 PSI)
  • Time: 3-5 seconds

Material-Specific Instructions

✓ Cotton & Cotton Blends

  • Pre-Press Required: Press garment for 5-10 seconds to remove all moisture
  • Temperature: 320-340°F (higher than standard)
  • Time: 10-15 seconds (longer than standard)
  • Pressure: High (50-60 PSI)

Why: Cotton absorbs moisture and requires higher heat to cure properly.

⚠️ Polyester & Performance Fabrics

  • Method: Burst pressing (multiple short presses instead of one long press)
  • Temperature: 300°F (lower to prevent dye migration)
  • Time: 3-5 seconds per burst × 2-3 times
  • Pressure: Medium (40-50 PSI)

Critical Warning: Polyester dyes can migrate (bleed) at high temps. Low-quality or sublimated garments are especially risky. Always test first.

UV-DTF Application (Hard Surfaces)

Pressure-Sensitive Application

  1. Clean surface thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol (let dry completely)
  2. Peel backing from UV-DTF sticker
  3. Apply to surface with firm, even pressure
  4. Use squeegee or credit card to remove air bubbles
  5. Peel clear transfer film carefully

Best Results On: Glass, metal, plastic, wood, ceramic

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem Solution
Transfer won't peel Temperature too low or time too short. Increase both.
Adhesive residue on transfer sheet Temperature too high. Reduce by 10-20°F.
Colors look dull or washed out Insufficient pressure or time. Increase both.
Design cracks after first wash Under-cured. Increase time by 2-3 seconds.
Polyester garment has discoloration Dye migration. Lower temp to 280-300°F, use burst method.

Need Help?

Contact us with photos/details of your setup:

Email: support@dtfchromazone.com
Available: Mon-Fri, 9AM-6PM ET

Disclaimer: These guidelines are starting points. Heat press performance varies by brand, age, and calibration. We are not responsible for application results—testing on similar material is always recommended before production runs.