YOUR PRINT. PRESSED RIGHT.
Heat press instructions
A smooth setup, an even press and the right peel. Follow these four steps for a clean, lasting garment transfer.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Start with the right settings
Starting guidance for standard DTF only—not a universal recipe. Film, fabric and equipment can require different settings. Test one garment before a full run.
THE PRESSING PROCESS
From blank to finished in four steps
Prepare the garment
Use a stable heat press and a clean, dry garment. Lay the shirt flat on the lower platen and smooth out wrinkles.
Briefly pre-press if recommended for your garment to release moisture and flatten the printing area.
Remember: Keep seams, collars and zippers outside the pressing area.
Position your transfer
Place the transfer on the garment with the printed adhesive side touching the fabric and the carrier film on top.
Check the placement before closing the press. Use a ruler or alignment guide if needed.
Remember: Make sure the artwork is straight before you press.
Press with even pressure
Set the temperature, time and pressure according to the instructions supplied with your transfer. Use a protective sheet only when those instructions recommend it.
Close the press for the full recommended time. Keep your hands clear of the hot platen.
Remember: Check the actual platen temperature if results are inconsistent.
Peel, finish & check
Open the press carefully. Peel the carrier only at the recommended stage: hot, warm or cold. Pull smoothly at a low angle.
If the design lifts, stop and lay the carrier back down. Follow your transfer instructions for another press and any finishing press with a suitable cover sheet.
Remember: Check the edges and let the garment settle before washing.
WHEN SOMETHING NEEDS ADJUSTING
Small fixes. Better results.
The design lifts with the carrier
Stop peeling and lay the carrier back down. Check the required peel temperature, pressing time and even pressure. Follow your transfer instructions before pressing again.
Some edges are not sticking
Seams or uneven thickness can prevent full contact. Move the garment to a flat area and check that pressure reaches the entire transfer. Use a suitable pressing pad only if your equipment and garment instructions allow it.
The garment scorches or shows a press mark
Stop and test a spare garment. Check the fabric’s heat tolerance and the actual platen temperature. A transfer that works on cotton may need a different process on heat-sensitive fabric.
Can I press UV DTF decals?
No. UV DTF decals use a separate application process on suitable hard surfaces. Do not use these garment heat-press settings for UV DTF.
AFTER THE PRESS
Keep your print looking its best
- Wait at least 24 hours before washing.
- Wash inside out in cold water with mild detergent.
- Avoid bleach and fabric softener.
- Hang dry or tumble dry on low.
- Do not iron directly over the printed design.
Always follow the garment care label and your transfer’s specific care instructions.