How to Put DTF Transfers on T Shirts

DTF transfers are becoming increasingly popular with crafters as many realize they offer a lot more flexibility than sublimation transfers. 

DTF transfers are cutless, weedless, full color transfers that are not only inexpensive and easy to apply, but they can go on any color or type of garment. 

A DTF printer is a high priced investment for a small business that plans to print transfers daily. But there are plenty of options for purchasing DTF transfers. 

In this tutorial I'll show you how to put DTF transfers on t shirts, whether you print them yourself or purchase the transfers.

What you need to apply DTF transfers

Not much, which is part of why DTF has taken off. You need your DTF transfers, a garment, and a heat source. A heat press is easiest and most consistent, but you can also use an iron - I cover that in a separate tutorial on applying DTF transfers with an iron if you don't have a press. 

One thing to check before you start: ask your DTF supplier whether the film is hot peel or cold peel. Cold peel is most common. It changes when you remove the film, so it matters. 

DTF transfer heat press settings

Warm your heat press to 338 degrees and set it for 10 to 15 seconds. 

TIP: if you're like me and have a hard time remembering the exact times and temperatures for DTF, you can download this free DTF time and temperature printable cheat sheet.

How to put DTF transfers on t shirts

Place your shirt directly on the press and give it a pre press to get out any wrinkles or moisture. 

Put the DTF transfer directly onto the shirt with the film side facing up. 

Lower the upper platen of the heat press directly onto the transfer and apply medium, even pressure for 10 to 20 seconds. Do not use a cover sheet on this first press. 

Open the heat press. If you have cold peel DTF transfers, remove the shirt from the heat press and wait until the transfer is completely cool to the touch before carefully peeling off the transfer film. 

If your DTF transfer starts to lift with the film, it's not cool enough yet. 

Now repress at the same time and temperature, this time with a cover sheet, to press the DTF transfer into the fibers of the t shirt. 

And that's it. That's how easy it is to put DTF transfers on t shirts. 

No heat press? Use an iron

You don't have to own a heat press to apply DTF transfers. An iron works, and that opens up selling transfers to customers who don't have a press either. The technique is a little different since you press section by section rather than all at once - I walk through it here: how to use an iron for DTF transfers. 

More DTF help

Want to learn more about the best desktop DTF printer for small businesses? Check out my DTF printer comparison. 

Still deciding if DTF is right for you? Here's DTF vs sublimation, side by side. 

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