Iron Pressing
To press a DTF (Direct to Film) transfer onto fabric using an iron, set the iron to a temperature suitable for the fabric (usually around 320-350°F for cotton) and turn off the steam function. Preheat the garment, position the DTF transfer, cover it with parchment paper, and press firmly with the iron for 10-20 seconds, moving the iron around to cover the entire design. Allow the transfer to cool slightly before peeling off the film.
1. Position Your Design
Take your time and line up your artwork in the desired print area. Use our thermal heat tape to secure your transfer so it doesn’t move while you iron it onto the garment.Cover the transfer with a sheet of parchment paper, kraft paper, or a Teflon cover sheet.
2. Press
Set your iron to a dry, steam-free setting with no water in the reservoir and also to a temperature that matches the fabric you’re using. If the transfer isn’t adhering properly, gradually increase the heat toward the cotton/linen setting — the hottest option — while ensuring it won’t damage your garment.Press the iron firmly onto one small section of the transfer for 10-15 seconds, mimicking the pressure of a heat press, then slowly drag the iron to the next overlapping section. Repeat until the entire design is pressed.
3. Peel Hot After a Few Seconds
Allow the transfer to cool down before peeling off the clear film. If the transfer is not fully adhered, repeat the pressing process. Wait a few seconds (or more) and peel! If parts of the design are not sticking, lay it back down and press again with added pressure and heat (+15°F). If unsuccessful, increase heat by 15°F increments until it works. Remember, one of the great things about DTF Ghana is that repeated pressing won’t damage the transfer.
4. Final Press
Place the parchment or Teflon paper back on top of the design, and press again for 15 seconds to soften the design, increase durability, and remove shine.