The DTF Process

The DTF Process

DTF Academy — In This Series

This is the guide we wish existed when we started running DTF six years ago. We're going to walk you through every step of the process — from the moment you submit your file to the moment you peel the transfer off your garment — including the heat press settings we use in our shop, the mistakes we see most often, and how to get results that last.

If any of the terms in this guide are unfamiliar, our DTF Terminology Guide has plain-English definitions for everything. And if you're still deciding whether DTF is the right method for your project, read our DTF vs DTG comparison guide first.

The DTF Process — Step by Step

  1. 1
    Submit your artwork

    Submit a PNG file with a transparent background at 300 DPI minimum. The transparent background tells our printer exactly where to apply the white ink base layer — without it, you can end up with unwanted white borders around your design. PDF and AI files are also accepted. Low-res files will produce soft, blurry edges regardless of what we do on our end.

  2. 2
    We print to PET film on our Audley printer

    Our Audley DTF printer lays down your design in full CMYK color, then prints a white ink base layer over the entire design. The white layer is what makes colors pop on dark garments — it acts as a canvas so your colors appear exactly as intended on any fabric color.

  3. 3
    Hot-melt adhesive powder is applied

    While the ink is still wet, hot-melt adhesive powder is applied across the entire printed surface. The powder only adheres where ink is present — blank areas of the film stay clean. Excess powder is shaken off. This powder is the permanent bond that holds your design to the garment through 50–100+ washes.

  4. 4
    Curing

    The printed film passes through a curing oven where heat melts the adhesive powder into the ink. The result is a stable, shelf-ready transfer sheet. Cured transfers can be stored for weeks without quality loss — they're ready to press whenever you need them.

  5. 5
    Pre-press your garment — don't skip this

    Before placing the transfer, press your blank garment for 3–5 seconds with your heat press. This removes moisture and wrinkles. Moisture trapped under the transfer is one of the most common causes of poor adhesion and edge lifting. This step takes five seconds and saves garments.

  6. 6
    Heat press at the correct settings for your fabric

    Position the transfer film-side up on your garment and press at the correct temperature and pressure. See the full settings table below — this is where most mistakes happen. Too much time or too much pressure are the two most common errors we hear about from customers.

  7. 7
    Hot peel — peel immediately

    We use hot peel instant transfer film. Peel the film immediately after pressing while it's still hot — lift from a corner at a steady, consistent angle. No waiting, no cooling. Your design is now bonded to the garment.

  8. 8
    Second press for durability

    Optional but recommended: place a Teflon sheet over the design and press for another 3–5 seconds. This improves hand feel (softer finish), eliminates any surface sheen, and improves wash durability. Takes seconds and makes a noticeable difference.

Heat Press Settings by Fabric

These are the settings we start from in our Danbury shop. Every heat press is calibrated slightly differently — always test on a scrap piece of the same fabric before your full run. Settings marked "Hot / Instant" reflect our hot peel film.

Fabric Temp Time Pressure Peel
Cotton 320–350°F 12–15 sec Medium–Firm Hot / Instant
Polyester 275–290°F 10–12 sec Medium Hot / Instant
Cotton/Poly Blend 300–315°F 12–15 sec Medium Hot / Instant
Nylon 270–280°F 10–12 sec Light–Medium Hot / Instant
Denim 320–330°F 12–15 sec Firm Hot / Instant
Tri-Blend 290–305°F 10–12 sec Medium Hot / Instant

Remember: Pre-press your garment 3–5 seconds before applying the transfer. After peeling, a second press through a Teflon sheet for 3–5 seconds improves hand feel and wash durability. Always test on a sample first when working with a new fabric type.

The Two Most Common Pressing Mistakes

After six years of running DTF, these are the two things customers tell us went wrong. Both are easy to fix once you know what to look for.

Wrong Press Time

Too long: The adhesive over-bonds, leaving a shiny mark or scorching the fabric. Polyester is especially sensitive — always stay on the lower end of the time range for synthetics.

Too short: The adhesive never fully activates. The design looks fine immediately but starts lifting or peeling after the first or second wash.

Wrong Pressure

Too much: Crushes the transfer and distorts fine details and thin lettering. Can push ink beyond design edges, creating fuzzy outlines.

Too little: Air pockets form under the transfer. Edges lift after washing, especially on textured fabrics like denim and canvas.

DTF Care Instructions — Making Prints Last

Proper application gets you a good print. Proper care keeps it looking good for years.

  • Wash inside-out in cold water on a gentle cycle
  • Never use bleach or fabric softener — both degrade the adhesive bond
  • Tumble dry on low heat or hang dry
  • Do not dry clean — solvents break down the adhesive layer
  • If ironing is needed, iron inside-out or place a cloth over the design — never iron directly on the print
  • Wait at least 24 hours after pressing before the first wash

Ready to Order? We Print Same Day.

Orders placed by 1:00 PM are printed the same day. No minimums. Audley printers, high-end inks, hot peel instant film. Danbury, CT.