Pressing Instructions

Step 1 - Setting up your press.

When setting up your press please realize that all presses are not created equal. You should take time if possible to experiment with settings the work best for you and your Team. Factors that should be considered when you are setting up your press.

  1. Substrate - Use Less application time and Temperature for synthetic materials, more of each for Cotton. Temp Range: 250°-280°
  2. Pressure - Use More pressure for textured fabrics, standard pressure is 40psi.
  3. Press - Find ways to test the accuracy of your press in terms of temperature and pressure.

Step 2 - Pre-pressing

Pre-pressing fabric smooths out any wrinkles that could potentially impact your print quality. It also heats up the surface making it more conducive for the transfer. While some decorators may skip this step, we suggest taking the time to pre-press whenever possible. Simply apply heat for about 2 to 5 seconds to flatten, smooth, and de-humidify your garment.

  • Time: 2-5 seconds
  • Temp: 250°F - 280°F

Step 3 -Lining up your Film

An important step to making sure your print comes out as designed. is getting your DTF transfer properly aligned on the shirt. Whenever possible use a t-square or laser alignment tool to help keep things straight and in the correct position. If you don't have access to these tool your hands can work as a great substitute.

Step 4 - Applying the Transfer

Once you have you shirt loaded and transfer where you want, it's time to apply. Press Settings will vary depending on the press so there is no one size fits all set up. We recommend experimenting as much as possible with your routine, and figure out what works best. Standard press settings for application on most products most products:

  1. Temp - 250°F -280°F
  2. Pressure - 40psi, More pressure for textured fabrics
  3. Press - 10 seconds

Step 5 - Hot Peel

1. Allow the heated fabric and film to cool for just a few seconds

2. Bend corner of film with as much break as possible. Holding the garment down with your opposite hand.

3. Peel back the film in one confident and fluid motion, keeping your hand as close to the product as possible. Do NOT pull the film up.

Step 6 - Post-Press

Time: 2-5 seconds

The Post-Press is an important step in the application process. It removes any excess moisture from the transfer and ensure's proper adhesion.

Download Pressing Guidelines

How To Heat Press A T-Shirt