5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using DTF Transfers
You’re so close to the perfect custom shirt. You followed the steps, but something’s not quite right. Is the edge of your design peeling? Does it look faded after one wash? Don’t worry—these are common issues, and they’re almost always caused by a few simple, avoidable mistakes.
Mastering your technique is about knowing what not to do. Here are the top five mistakes people make when applying DTF transfers and how you can avoid them for flawless results every time.
Avoid frustrating results by learning from these common errors.
Mistake #1: Skipping the Pre-Press
The Problem: Fabric is like a sponge; it holds moisture from the air. Pressing a transfer onto fabric that contains even a little moisture prevents the adhesive from properly bonding. This is the #1 cause of transfers peeling after washing. Wrinkles can also create gaps in adhesion.
The Fix: Always, always pre-press your garment for 5-10 seconds. This drives out all moisture and irons out any wrinkles, creating the perfect canvas for your transfer.
Mistake #2: Using Incorrect Pressure
The Problem: Pressure is just as important as time and temperature. Too little pressure, and the adhesive won’t be forced into the fabric fibers, leading to a weak bond. Too much pressure can “squish” the ink, making the design look thin and causing the adhesive to ooze out from the edges.
The Fix: Aim for medium-firm pressure. You should have to use some effort to close your press, but not your entire body weight. If your transfers look bubbly or are peeling, you likely need more pressure. If the adhesive is visible around the edges, you have too much.
Mistake #3: Peeling at the Wrong Time
The Problem: Hot peel and cold peel films are not interchangeable. Trying to peel a cold peel film when it’s hot will result in a stringy, ruined mess. Waiting for a hot peel film to cool will make it extremely difficult to remove and can damage the print.
The Fix: Read the instructions for your transfers! Know exactly which type you have. For hot peels, peel immediately and confidently. For cold peels, be patient. Let the garment cool completely to room temperature before even thinking about touching the film.
Mistake #4: Forgetting the Finishing Press
The Problem: Your design might look great after the peel, so you stop there. While it looks finished, the transfer hasn’t reached its maximum durability or best possible feel. It might feel slightly stiff and be more susceptible to wear and tear in the wash.
The Fix: The second press is not optional if you want professional quality. After peeling the film, cover the exposed design with a Teflon or parchment sheet and press again for 5-7 seconds. This simple step locks the design into the fabric, improving washability and giving it a much softer, “in-the-shirt” feel.
Mistake #5: Pressing Over Seams or Zippers
The Problem: When you press a garment with a thick seam, collar, or zipper on the platen, it creates an uneven surface. The raised areas receive all the pressure, while the area next to them receives almost none. This will cause parts of your transfer to fail completely.
The Fix: Use a heat press pillow or pad. Place a pillow inside the shirt, which raises the print area so that the seams and collars fall off the edge. This ensures your design receives direct, even pressure.
Print with Confidence!
By avoiding these common pitfalls, you’re not just making a shirt—you’re creating a durable, professional-quality product. Now that you know the secrets, you can press with total confidence.