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Common Mistakes to Avoid with DTF TransfersDTF Center
August 13, 2024 DTF Center

Common Mistakes to Avoid with DTF Transfers

Table of Contents

The pros of DTF (Direct to Film) transfers are flexibility, vivid color and durability and its fast adopting into global printing. To achieve best result from this new technology, things you need to know would be listed here. DTFCenter.com is dedicated to providing reliable solution to achieve excellent result with your DTF transfers project, and here we share some common mistakes you will encounter with your DTF machine.

1. Choosing the Wrong Type of Fabric

DTF transfers will work best with some types of fabrics, and at DTFCenter.com we suggest that you can use cotton, polyester and a cotton/polyester blend for DTF transfers. For other synthetic fabrics like nylon, the DTF adhesive might not bond correctly, and eventually your DTF transfer won’t be as durable as you’d like. Be sure when working on projects that you’re using DTF-friendly fabrics.

2. Incorrect Temperature and Pressure Settings

The key to a successful DTF transfer is all in the settings. Too much heat and the design warps, too little heat and the transfer won’t stick to the fabric. Wrong pressure and the transfer won’t bond correctly to the garment.

3. Improper Preparation of Fabric

DTF transfers require that the fabric be clean and ready for the transfer to take place. Since the fabric is not being dyed, dust and dirt on the surface of the fabric will not affect the end result. However, they can become trapped in the paint transfer which will reduce the overall quality of the transfer. For information on how to best prepare your fabric for the transfer process, visit DTFCenter.com.

4. Using Low-Quality Images

To get full use of the increased resolution and detail, which is the beauty of DTF transfer, you want to use high resolution, high detail images. Some images, due to their low resolution, will be fuzzy looking, or appear to have a ‘screen door’ effect to them after the transfer process. DTFCenter.com recommends that you always use images that are at least 300 DPI when creating your print files.

5. Not Paying Attention to Cooling Time

It is important to wait just the right amount of time after cooling for the transfer bonds to properly attach to the fabric. If you peel the film too early, the design will lift. If you wait too long, it will be hard to remove the film. You can read the recommended cooling times for each transfer at DTFCenter.com, and, with these guidelines you’ll have perfect results.

6. Not Testing Before Production

For example, if you are releasing a new design, fabric, or using a different heat press setting, performing a small test run in advance can help you identify potential problems before starting a full production run.Test run before production. It’s always a good practice to test run before production. You can avoid wasting time, materials, and effort.DTFCenter.com

7. Neglecting Heat Press Maintenance

The heat press is the most important piece of equipment affecting the outcome of your DTF transfers. An out of tune heat press can cause uneven pressure and temperature distribution which can decrease the quality of the transfer. DTFCenter.com recommends that you regularly clean your heat press and calibrate it.

8. Failing to Align the Design Correctly

If your design isn’t sitting correctly in line on your fabric, it can ruin the whole project, so perhaps the first thing to do is to go to DTFCenter.com and find a link to help you align your design and forces. Second, you had better make sure that your design is true to the centre of your object and straight, before you apply the rubber stamp.

9. Using the Wrong Transfer Paper

The better the transfer paper are, the better the effect of DTF transfers will be. However, if you use a bad quality or inappropriate transfer paper, there is a high chance that the transfers will be incomplete or defective. DTFCenter.com provides a diverse range of products to help find the best transfer paper to use in DTF transfers.

10. Ignoring Post-Transfer Care Instructions

Applying the DTF transfer is just the first step in achieving a finished product. After applying the transfer correctly, following the proper care instructions will further lengthen the life of your finished design. Instructions such as washing inside out and in cold water can help your transfer last longer and avoid fading or peeling. At DTFCenter.com, you’ll find all the information you need for post-transfer care.

Conclusion

By avoiding these easy mistakes, you should see the best results when using DTFCenter.com products. We’re here to offer the highest quality products and the best advice to make sure your DTF transfers turn out every time. Whether you’re a beginner or someone with years of DTF transfer experience, we have you covered.

Find out more at DTFCenter.com and shop for DTF transfers here.

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