How to apply DTF: temperature, time and pressure

Temperature, time and pressure by fabric

As a general reference, DTF is applied between 150 and 170 °C for 10–15 seconds with medium-high pressure. Heat-sensitive fabrics (polyester, technical) need the low end of the range; cotton takes the high end.

• Cotton: 160–170 °C, 12–15 s, medium-high pressure
• Polyester and technical: 140–150 °C, 10–12 s
• Blends: a middle point, with a prior test
• Firm, even pressure, always without steam

Cold or hot peel

Peeling is removing the film once the design has transferred. Hot, you remove it right after pressing: it is faster and leaves a slightly glossy finish. Cold, you wait for the piece to cool, giving a more matte finish that is usually safer on delicate fabrics.

The film itself tells you which to use; when in doubt, cold. Peeling at the wrong moment is one of the most common causes of a poor finish.

Application by fabric and second press

On cotton, DTF grips very well and takes high temperatures. On polyester and technical fabrics, lower the temperature so you do not scorch or mark the garment. On dark garments it works just the same thanks to the white layer.

In every case a second press of about 5 seconds after removing the film helps, placing silicone paper or a thin cloth on top: it seals the ink and improves the feel and durability.

Mistakes that lift the design

Most lifting comes from too little pressure, too little heat or too short a time. Peeling at the wrong moment, using steam or washing the garment before 24 hours also cause it. Always test on a scrap of the same fabric before a run.

• Insufficient pressure, temperature or time
• Cold-peeling a hot-peel film (or vice versa)
• Using steam or washing before 24 h
• Not testing first on new fabrics