DTF Printing Guide

What is DTF Printing?
DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing is a heat transfer method that produces vibrant, full-color designs on a special film with adhesive powder. These transfers can be applied to virtually any fabric type using heat and pressure. Unlike screen printing or vinyl, DTF delivers photographic-quality images with incredible detail, works on both light and dark fabrics, and has no minimum order requirements.
Why Choose DTF Transfers?
  • No Minimums: Order just one transfer or thousands
  • Full-Color Capability: Print photos, gradients, and complex designs with ease
  • Works on Any Fabric: Cotton, polyester, blends, nylon, leather, and more
  • Soft, Flexible Feel: Thin transfers that move and breathe with the fabric
  • Durable: Withstands washing and wearing without cracking or fading
  • Fast Turnaround: Most orders ready same day or next day
How to Apply DTF Transfers
Applying DTF transfers is simple with the right equipment and technique:
What You'll Need:
  • Heat press (recommended) or household iron
  • Your DTF transfer
  • Your garment
  • Parchment paper or Teflon sheet
Step-by-Step Application:
  1. Preheat your heat press to 300-320°F with medium-high pressure
  2. Pre-press your garment for 5 seconds to remove any moisture and wrinkles
  3. Position the transfer on your garment with the design facing up (clear film on top, white adhesive powder touching the fabric)
  4. Press for 15 seconds with firm, even pressure
  5. Hot Peel: Immediately remove the clear film in one smooth, quick motion while the transfer is still hot
  6. Final Press: Immediately cover the design with parchment paper and press again for 5 seconds to seal
Important Tips:
  • Hot peel immediately: Remove the film right away while it's still hot - don't wait for it to cool!
  • Use parchment paper: Protects your heat press and ensures proper adhesion on the final press
  • Firm pressure: Make sure your heat press applies even, firm pressure across the entire design
  • No steam: If using a household iron, turn off the steam function
  • Test first: Always test on a similar fabric scrap if possible
Care Instructions:
  • Wait 24 hours before first wash
  • Wash inside-out in cold water
  • Tumble dry low or hang dry
  • Do not iron directly on the design
  • Avoid bleach and fabric softeners
Ordering DTF Transfers
Our DTF transfers come on 22-inch wide sheets priced at $5.99 per linear inch.
  • Single transfers in various sizes
  • Gang sheets using our online Gang Sheet Builder - arrange multiple designs on one sheet to maximize value
Turnaround:
  • Transfers ready same day (by noon or end of day) or next day
  • Available for pickup or shipping
Questions?
Contact us for help with your order or application questions!
📧 sales@gcgvt.com
📞 802-522-1333
You click, we ship, you stick!