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DTF Transfers How-to and Troubleshooting

YOU MUST USE A COMMERCIAL HEAT PRESS MACHINE

FOR DTF TRANSFERS SOLD FROM THIS STORE. 

 

A CRICUT EASY PRESS OR IRON WILL NOT WORK! A MULTIPLE-IN-ONE PRESS MAY NOT WORK BECAUSE SOME ARE NOT CAPABLE OF PRESSING WITH A HIGH PRESSURE!

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PLEASE BE AWARE… All DTF transfers DO NOT work the same! The instructions will be different for different brands of DTF film/transfers.

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  • We ship all DTF orders with 2 sample DTF transfers and detailed written instructions. Please test our transfers on an old shirt first.

  • ALWAYS read and follow the instructions that are specific to the DTF transfer you are using.

  • If you cannot locate a set of instructions that came with your order, DO NOT use instructions from another brand of DTF transfers!

  • Please do not apply your previous knowledge of DTF to our transfers. Our transfers may be very different from the ones you used before.

  • You can find our instructions at the bottom of this page.

 

There are three main elements when setting your heat press to get good results:

  1. PRESSURE

  2. TIME

  3. TEMPERATURE

And a couple of other factors that may affect the pressing quality as well:

  1. MOISTURE

  2. TECHNIQUE

When the three main elements are appropriately balanced and the other two elements are considered, you will get professional quality results every time.

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THE FOLLOWING IS A COMMON DTF PRESSING ISSUE, ITS REASONS, AND SOLUTIONS.

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ISSUE: Film does not peel off easily or remains stuck after pressing

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Reason 1. The transfer process was not completed. One of the three main elements has been set too low.

  1. Start by ensuring the pressure of your heat press is set to heavy. If your press comes with a pressure gauge, set it to at least 70 PSI. If your press doesn't have a pressure reading, that's OK too! Take small pieces of paper about the size of a dollar bill and place them at each corner of the press, half on and half off the platen. Close the press. If you can pull them out, your pressure is too light. They should be locked in there pretty good for heavy pressure. With insufficient pressure, the transfer may not adhere well or fail when washed.

  2. If the pressure is OK, check your temperature. Use an infrared thermometer to ensure your heat press is heated to the set temperature and the upper platen has no cold spots. 

  3. If the pressure and the temperature are OK, increase your time by 2-5 seconds.​

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Reason 2 The transfer film was not removed properly. 

Our Hot Peel DTF film has to be removed while still very hot! As soon as you open the press and while the garment is still laying on the press, grab the corner of the film and pull, not straight up but parallel to the garment, in ONE quick, smooth motion. Do NOT stop or slow down while peeling. If you hesitated, close the press for a few seconds and try again. Otherwise, the transfer may rip.

This video will help you master your technique: https://youtu.be/iwGyRXapuaY.

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Reason 3. The garment was not pre-pressed to remove moisture.

Make sure you pre-press your garment for 5 seconds. Moisture is the enemy of any heat transfer!

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DTF TRANSFERS PRESSING INSTRUCTION

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  • Heat press settings: 300-310 degrees depending on your press, 13 seconds, and HIGH pressure (read above on how to set your pressure high). 

  • We recommend starting with a lower temperature and going to a higher temperature if needed. Some presses run hot, and some have cold spots. We recommend testing your press in multiple areas with a heat gun and practicing with extra transfers to find your "sweet spot."

  • Make sure no seams get in the way.

  • Pre-press your garment for 5 seconds to remove moisture.

  • Lay the transfer down with adhesive facing the fabric

  • Press with heavy pressure for 13 seconds.

  • Peel the transfer film immediately while the shirt is HOT.

  • If the transfer does not stick to the fabric or does not release from the film, put the transfer film back down, and press for a few more seconds. Refer to the information above on how to troubleshoot pressing issues.

  • Cover the design with parchment or Teflon sheet, and press for another 5 seconds, HIGH pressure. 

  • PLEASE NOTE: If applying to a 100% Polyester or Nylon material, lower the temperature by 10 degrees.

  • If you still need help with troubleshooting, please reach out via email at order@pnwprintco.com.

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DTF PRINTED SHIRT CARE INSTRUCTIONS

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Turn your garment inside out and use cool water and a gentle cycle on your washing machine. DO NOT use Bleach. Air dry your garment or use the LOW heat setting on your dryer.

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PNW Print Co. is not responsible for operator or machine error when applying DTF or sublimation transfers. We recommend purchasing extra for each transfer and practicing with your machinery, temperatures, pressure, and times before attempting your final product.

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