How to Press a DTF Transfer

Perfect Pressing Every Time: A Step-by-Step Guide

Direct-to-Film (DTF) transfers are taking over the custom apparel world — and for good reason. They’re vibrant, versatile, and easy to apply. But if you want your prints to look flawless and last through countless washes, you need to press them correctly.

At ENG PROMOS, we provide only the highest quality DTF gang sheets, and now we’re giving you the exact steps to apply them like a pro.

🔧 What You’ll Need

Before you start pressing, gather your tools:

  • Heat press (not a household iron)

  • Teflon sheet or parchment paper

  • Lint roller

  • Flat, clean garment

  • Your DTF transfer from ENG PROMOS

  • Optional: Heat tape (for exact placement)

✅ Pressing Instructions for DTF Transfers

Follow these exact steps for a long-lasting and vibrant transfer:

🔹 Step 1: Prep the Garment

  • Use a lint roller to remove dust, debris, or loose fibers.

  • Pre-press the shirt for 5 seconds to remove moisture and wrinkles.

🔹 Step 2: Position the Transfer

  • Place the DTF transfer face-up (design facing you) on the garment.

  • Align it properly based on your desired placement (e.g., 3 fingers down from the collar for chest prints).

🔹 Step 3: Heat Press Settings

Set your heat press to the following recommended settings:

Setting Value
Temperature 300–320°F (149–160°C)
Pressure Medium to firm
Time 15 seconds

Use a Teflon sheet or parchment paper on top of the film to protect it.

🔹 Step 4: Peel Cold

  • Allow the transfer to cool completely (usually 30–60 seconds).

  • Once cool, peel the film slowly and evenly from one corner.

🔹 Step 5: Final Press (Optional But Recommended)

Place a Teflon or parchment sheet over the design and press again for 5–10 seconds. This seals the ink into the fibers and gives a softer feel.

🔁 Washing & Care Instructions

To make your DTF prints last:

  • Wait 24 hours before washing

  • Wash inside-out with cold water

  • Avoid bleach and fabric softeners

  • Tumble dry low or hang dry

  • Do not iron directly over the design

With proper pressing and care, your DTF transfer will stay bright, stretchy, and crack-free for 40+ washes.

👕 Need More Transfers?

Browse our High-Quality DTF Gang Sheet Printing service and upload your custom design today. We offer fast turnaround and nationwide shipping — perfect for small brands, resellers, or bulk projects.

🛠 Having Trouble?

If your transfer didn’t stick right:

  • Check pressure — it may have been too light

  • Make sure you let it cool fully before peeling

  • Try a second press with more pressure

Still unsure? Contact us at Enuffgraphics@gmail.com or call 281-771-9572 — we’re here to help!