Production reference
Press & Application Guide
Starting settings for each film, then step-by-step handling. If your order came with its own instructions, those job-specific settings take priority.
Press settings by film
Test first. These are starting points. Presses read differently, so test on a scrap or an inside seam first. If your order came with its own settings, use those.
| Film or blank | Application |
|---|---|
| Instant Hot Peel | Press at 285°F for 10 seconds with Medium pressure. Peel instantly, slowly at 180°. Repress 5–10 seconds. Pre-press the fabric 5 seconds. Repress with a silicone or rubber pad, or with parchment, to seal and matte the print. |
| Glitter | Press at 305°F for 15 seconds with Medium pressure. Cold peel. Repress 10–15 seconds. |
| Holo Stripe | Press at 305°F for 15 seconds with Medium pressure. Cold peel. Repress 10–15 seconds. |
| Reflective | Press at 305°F for 15 seconds with Medium pressure. Cold peel. Repress 10–15 seconds. Mutes colors. |
| Film or blank | Application |
|---|---|
| Polyester garments | Press at 375–400°F for 45–60 seconds with 5–7 (Stahls Hotronix scale) pressure. Remove the paper right away to prevent ghosting. Pre-press 5–10 seconds. |
| Wood | Press at 350–400°F for 90–180 seconds with 5–7 (Stahls Hotronix scale) pressure. Remove the paper right away to prevent ghosting. Pre-press 45–60 seconds. |
UV DTF needs no heat press: burnish it onto a clean, smooth surface (steps below).
DTF transfers
- Confirm the garment can tolerate heat and pressure, then pre-press it to remove moisture and wrinkles.
- Use the time, temperature, pressure, and peel instructions supplied with your specific transfer; test unfamiliar garments first.
- Keep the garment flat and re-press only when the supplied instructions call for it.
Sublimation transfers
- Use a compatible polyester or polymer-coated blank and protect the press from migrating ink.
- Follow the settings for the exact blank—not a universal temperature copied from the internet.
- Secure the transfer against movement and use clean protective paper for every press.
UV DTF transfers
- Apply only to a smooth, clean, dry surface that is suitable for adhesive graphics; no heat press is used.
- Burnish the transfer firmly before removing the carrier, especially around fine detail.
- Test the intended item when wash, weather, or chemical exposure matters; suitability varies by surface.
Stickers & banners
- Clean and dry sticker surfaces before application, place one edge first, then smooth outward to avoid trapped air.
- Use a banner's ordered hems, grommets, and finishing points to spread load; do not suspend it from one point.
- Contact the shop before using a product in an unusual environment or safety-critical application.