Direct-to-Film Press Instructions and Settings
Temp: 375° F
Pressure: Medium-to-High
Time: 12-15 seconds
Cold Peel
1. Preparation:
- Clean and Dry: Ensure your garment or surface is clean, dry, and free from wrinkles or debris.
- Pre-press (optional): Consider pre-pressing the garment to remove moisture and wrinkles.
- Positioning: Place the DTF transfer on the garment with the image facing up.
- Protective Layer: Use a silicone upper platen cover or a garment protector to prevent direct contact with the heat press platen.
2. Pressing:
- First Press: Apply heat and pressure according to the recommended time and settings.
- Cool Down: Allow the garment to cool completely.
- Peel: Carefully peel off the transfer film, starting at a corner when it is cooled down.
- Second Press: For a softer and more durable finish, cover the transfer with a Teflon sheet (for a shiny look) or parchment paper (for a matte look) and press again for 10-12 seconds.
Note: The recommended settings above may need adjustments for best results.
Settings will vary depending on the heat press brand and model and atmospheric conditions.
Washing Instructions for Garments with Direct-to-Film (DTF) Prints
Direct-to-film prints are durable but require special care to maintain their quality. Follow these steps to keep your DTF-printed garments looking their best:
1. Turn Garment Inside Out
- Always turn your garment inside out before washing to protect the print from abrasion or damage during the wash cycle.
2. Wash in Cold Water
- Use cold water (ideally no more than 30°C or 86°F) to preserve the print’s integrity and prevent the colors from fading.
- Avoid hot water as it can cause the print to crack or peel over time.
3. Gentle Wash Cycle
- Select the gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine to reduce the impact on the print and fabric.
- Avoid heavy-duty cycles, as they can create more friction and may affect the print's longevity.
4. Use Mild Detergent
- Use a mild, fabric-friendly detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softeners, as they can degrade the print over time.
5. Avoid Fabric Softeners and Bleach
- Do not use bleach or fabric softeners, as these can damage the print or affect its adhesion to the fabric.
6. Drying
- Air dry your garment by laying it flat or hanging it up. Avoid wringing the garment, as this can distort the print or fabric.
- Do not tumble dry, as the heat can weaken the print and cause it to peel or crack.
- If you must use a dryer, set it to a low-heat or air-fluff setting.
7. Ironing
- Iron the garment inside out if needed.
- Do not iron directly on the print. Place a cloth between the iron and the print to avoid direct heat exposure.
- Use a low heat setting when ironing.
8. Spot Cleaning
- For small stains, spot clean the area using a mild detergent and a soft cloth.
- Avoid scrubbing directly on the print to prevent damage.
9. Storage
- Store your garment in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, which can cause the colors to fade over time.
- When possible, fold your garment carefully to avoid unnecessary stress on the print.
By following these care instructions, your direct-to-film printed garments will maintain their vibrant designs and last longer!
