DTF transfers are one of the most versatile and highly durable methods for printing designs onto shirts when it comes to garment customization. Be it an experienced professional or a custom apparel beginner, knowing how to apply DTF transfers can greatly enhance the quality and lifespan of your designs.
Unlike other methods, such as screen printing or heat transfer vinyl, DTF transfers will give you flexibility in application. You'll have the ability to apply it on cotton, polyester, blends—just about any kind of fabric. Additionally, they create bright and detailed prints that will remain so through time and wear.
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to apply DTF transfers on shirts. This ranges from DTF transfer temperature and time to the pressing itself. So, by the end of this blog, you will be able to confidently use DTF transfers for your shirt designs in a way that makes sure your prints turn out great and your prints last long.
What Are DTF Transfers?
Before getting into the application, let's discuss what DTF transfers are. The term DTF stands for Direct-To-Film. It's a print technique where designs get printed on a special film, which later gets transferred to garments using a heat press. This is a very durable technique since the ink binds well with the fabric and the colors stay very vivid with detailed prints that can stand as many washes as possible.
The DTF transfer process starts with printing your design onto a clear film that has special inks. This film is coated with heat-activated adhesive powder. Once that is ready, this is applied using a heat press onto the garment, bonding the design to the fabric. Now that we know what a DTF transfer is, let's dive into how to apply them to shirts.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply DTF Transfers to Shirts
1. Prepping the Shirt
Before transferring, ensure that you have properly prepped your shirt. This step is critical to make the DTF transfer a good bond in place with the garment.
- Pre-Press the Garment: First, pre-press the garment on the heat press for 5 to 10 seconds.
- Position the Transfer: place your DTF transfer film in the desired area of your garment. Set it correctly on the garment by using heat tape if necessary to hold it in its place.
2. Setting the Heat Press for DTF Transfers
DTF transfer temperature and time settings are parameters that you can't get wrong for a successful transfer. The heat press should be set according to the right temperature and pressure settings; at the wrong settings, some transfers can get spoiled, or you might end up with poor-quality prints.
- Temperature and Time: Recommended temperature and time settings for DTF vary with the kind of heat press one is using and with the kind of fabric being processed. However, for this case, the range lies between 300 - 325°F and a press time of between 5 to 10 seconds.
- Pressure Settings: Keep your heat press at a medium scale. Too high pressure will smudge the transfer, while allowing too little may not secure adequate bonding of the adhesive to the fabric.
3. Pressing the DTF Transfer
Now comes the most critical part of the process—pressing the DTF transfer onto the shirt. These steps will ensure you get top results:
Place Parchment Paper Over the Transfer: This is to prevent scorching of the DTF transfer film and charring of the garment. Place a sheet of parchment paper or a Teflon sheet over the transfer before pressing.
Apply the Heat: Lower the heat press onto the shirt, applying even pressure for the recommended time and temperature. The press needs to be closed for 15-20 seconds.
4. Let the Garment Cool
After you press a transfer, it's the general rule to let the garment cool off a bit before peeling off the film. Cool to the touch is the general rule for DTF transfers, that's good for the adhesive setting and proper bonding of the design to the fabric.
Gently Peel the Film: For best results, peel the film after the garment has cooled down. Peel it out gently. Do not pull it out fast to avoid raising any part of the design out of the garment.
5. Post-Pressing for Added Durability
When the transfer film has been peeled off, press the garment can be a second time for the durability of the print. Optional, of course. But the print will have more life this way.
Extra Press for 5-10 Seconds: Place a sheet of parchment paper over the design and press again for about 5-10 seconds. This just presses the design further into the fabric and improves wash resistance.
Read more: Types of T-shirt Printing Methods
DTF Transfer Application Tips and Tricks
While applying these transfers through the DTF process is pretty straightforward, here are a few more tips that will go a long way in helping you get the best results:
Wash in Cold Water: After pressing the shirt, it is best to wash the shirt in cold water to prevent the design from fading off or damaging the transfer.
Avoid Stretch: Excessive stretching of the fabric post-transfer can cause the design to crack or peel. Be mindful of this when wearing or washing the shirt.
Use of Heat-Resistant Tape: If you have a big and intricate design, you might consider using some heat-resistant tape to at least keep the DTF transfer in place when pressing so that the design doesn't shift during the transfer process.
It could also be beneficial in increasing your custom apparel business or even your DIY projects by learning how to apply DTF transfers to shirts. Be sure to produce vibrant, long-lasting designs by following the step-by-step guide above on the proper DTF temperature and time.
Be it for your clients or yourself, custom shirt printing and detailed fabric prints can never go wrong with a DTF transfer. Your DTF will look professional and remain vibrant for years to come upon proper preparation and execution.
So do not forget to take a look at our very wide range of DTF transfers and heat press at Chameleon Transfer to get started on your next project.
FAQs
1. What can DTF transfers be pressed on?
DTF transfers can be applied to any fabric, be it cotton, polyester, blends, or even more delicate ones like nylon or silk.
2. Can you press a DTF transfer with an iron?
Although it is technically possible to apply a DTF transfer with a regular household iron, would not recommend it for just about anything if professional results are desired. The equipment's even heat press and pressure ensure satisfactory transfer bonding.
3. How long do DTF transfers last before pressing?
After printing and applying the adhesive powder, DTF transfers can be stored and remain viable for a few months. They just need to be stored in a cool dry place to remain viable for press before use.
4. Can I print DTF transfers at home?
Yes, you can. Provided you have the means to do so, you can print your DTF transfers from your home. You need to have a special DTF printer, the right inks, adhesive powder, and of course, transfer films to produce high-quality transfers.
5. How do you press a DTF transfer on a shirt?
The process is called pre-pressing the garment, followed by placing the DTF transfer on the fabric. Adjust to the right temperature and time, press with a heat press, then let the garment cool a bit before peeling the film off.
6. Do you press DTF transfers twice?
Yes, the second pressing after the film removal really improves the durability of the print. This step, although optional, is nevertheless highly recommended for long-lasting designs.