What You Need
- A heat press (clamshell or swing-away)
- Your DTF transfer from Long Island DTF Printing
- A garment or substrate (cotton, polyester, blends, and more)
- A Teflon sheet or parchment paper (optional, for re-press step)
Application Instructions
Step 1: Pre-Press Your Garment
Place your garment on the heat press and press for 3-5 seconds to remove any moisture and wrinkles. This ensures a smooth, flat surface for the transfer.
Step 2: Position the Transfer
Place the DTF transfer face-down onto the garment. The printed design should be touching the fabric, with the PET film carrier on top. Make sure the transfer is positioned exactly where you want the design to appear.
Step 3: Press the Transfer
Close the heat press and apply with the following settings:
- Temperature: 300-325 degrees Fahrenheit (150-163 degrees Celsius)
- Pressure: Medium pressure
- Time: 15-20 seconds
Step 4: Peel the Film
Perform a hot peel or warm peel. Open the press and carefully peel the PET film away from the garment while it is still hot. Peel at a steady, consistent angle (approximately 45 degrees) for the cleanest release.
Step 5: Re-Press
Place a Teflon sheet or parchment paper over the design and press again for 5 seconds at the same temperature. This final press ensures maximum adhesion and a smooth, professional finish.
Tips for Best Results
- Do not use a household iron. A heat press provides the even pressure and consistent temperature necessary for proper adhesion. Household irons will produce uneven results and may damage the transfer.
- Test on scrap fabric first. If you are working with a new material or substrate, always do a test press to dial in your settings before applying to your final garment.
- Wait 24 hours before washing. Allow the transfer to fully cure before the first wash. When you do wash, turn the garment inside-out, use cold water, and tumble dry on low or hang dry.
- Avoid direct contact with the design during re-press. Always use a Teflon sheet or parchment paper to protect the transfer surface.
- Store unused transfers flat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve adhesive quality.