TruePrint DTF Application Instructions

Discover how to use DTF transfers, including tips on monitoring your temperature and pressure!

Applying our TruePrint DTF heat transfers is simple and fast. You'll need a good heat press (CraftPro, MPress or HPN recommended), TruePrint DTF transfers, and the item you want to decorate! For optimal results, we suggest performing a post-press. Follow the steps and instructions below to ensure a flawless application!

Quick Checklist Before You Begin

First, Check Your Temperature & Pressure.

It's crucial to calibrate your press to the correct temperature and pressure for top-notch results. Use a quality Infrared (IR) Temperature Gun (contactless) to check that your heat press is heating evenly and accurately. Bonus points for doing this at the start of every new project.

For high-quality heat-pressed garments, pressure is nearly everything. Insufficient pressure is the most common cause of application issues. Ensure your machine's pressure is set correctly by consulting your press's manual for proper instructions.

Second, Remove Non-stick Sheets, Covers, or Pillows.

We don't recommend using non-stick sheets, covers, or pillows with any of our DTF heat transfers, as they can reduce the heat reaching the transfer. Less heat means issues with application.

*We do appreciate using non-stick sheets with DTF transfers, but only if you want a gloss finish. In that case, cover your applied transfer with a non-stick sheet during the post-press. Use prograde parchment paper for a matte look.

Last, Test Before Your Press!

We suggest testing a sample transfer on the intended fabric before starting full production, especially if you're using a new transfer formula or fabric. This quick test ensures you're prepared. Before ordering and applying our transfers, check the fabric contents carefully. Be aware of any coatings, such as waterproofing, that may be present on the item (for instance, a waterproof windbreaker might not be solely polyester).

If something doesn't go as planned, you'll have an opportunity to troubleshoot, saving both time and money. We find that approach invaluable!

Application Instructions 

Step 1: Adjust Settings & Prepare your Garment

Set your time and temperature to our recommended settings.

Temperature: 300˚F
Time: 10 seconds
Pressure: Medium to Heavy

Step 2: Load Garment, Place Transfer, and Press

Place the garment on the lower platen, ensuring that seams, zippers, and other elements are off the edge for an even application. Lay the transfer print-side down with the ink touching the garment - be mindful to orient it correctly. The clear film aids in accurate placement.

Press the transfer at 300˚F for 7-10 seconds. Our DTF transfers are now hot peel. Immediately upon opening the platen, stabilize the garment, grasp a corner of the paper, and peel diagonally and swiftly in one smooth motion.

Remember, peeling quickly ensures the best results. Don't hesitate!

Step 3: Finish it Off With Post Press

To ensure the transfer seals well onto the garment, a post-press step is highly recommended. Now, it's time to choose the desired finish!

For a glossy finish, use non-stick sheet.
For a matte finish, opt for prograde parchment paper.

Cover your transfer with your chosen option and post-press for 5-10 seconds.

Pro tip: In a pinch, you can even use scrap fabric for post-pressing, which works remarkably well.

Additional Tips & Tricks

Preparing Your Item

  • It is advisable to pre-press your garment to eliminate wrinkles and excess moisture from the fabric. Ensure the garment cools completely before applying DTF transfers.
  • Ensure that zippers, seams, buttons, etc., are kept off the edge of the platen for uniform application.

Use a Commercial Heat Press

Not sure which one to get? Click here to read more about the presses we love and recommend.

Please note, Cricut® Easy Press and other low-end Amazon presses may not provide the necessary pressure to apply our transfers correctly. We strongly advise against using these types of presses.

Still having trouble applying our transfers? Contact our team here.

Wash & Care Instructions

For long-lasting transfers, we recommend washing inside out with cold water. While line drying is strongly recommended for best results, tumble drying with low heat is also effective and more convenient.

We suggest laying out the newly applied garments for approximately 24 to 48 hours to ensure they fully cure before folding or washing.

Disclaimer

We cannot guarantee the washability of the heat transfer as we cannot verify whether our product was applied and washed according to our recommended guidelines. Our products are sourced from various major retailers, each conducting their own testing before accepting our products. Many of these clients require a minimum washability test of 60 washes.