DTF Basics - Pressing

Once the graphic has been prepared, it’s time to press it on the shirt. The process is all about time, pressure, and temperature. When you’re determining these, the most important thing to think about is the type of material that’s being used. If these factors aren’t right for the material, it can ruin the shirt.

The heat press is used to melt the adhesive that’s being used. This makes the ink and the shirt into a single item. It also affects the film’s release layer, activating it. The film is then peeled away. If hot-peel film is used, it can be done right away. If a cold-peel film is used, the garment must completely cool down before peeling. A second press is then recommended to keep the graphic in place and make it smoother.