DTF Pressing Instructions — Hot & Cold Peel

Mahalo for choosing Aloha Print & Press Customs! Follow this guide to apply your DTF (Direct to Film) transfers.

Before you press

Identify your transfer’s peel type before pressing. Hot peel and cold peel describe when to remove the carrier film. Use the method specified for your transfer. If you do not know which type you received, contact us before pressing.

Use a heat press that provides even heat and pressure. Check that your garment is suitable for heat application, and test a spare transfer on the same fabric before starting a full batch.

Press settings — hot & cold peel

  • Temperature: 300°F (149°C)
  • Press time: 10–15 seconds, depending on your heat press
  • Pressure: Heavy pressure. Ensure even contact across the design.

These settings apply to our standard DTF transfers. Contact us before applying specialty transfers or pressing heat-sensitive fabrics. Check the garment’s heat tolerance and test before pressing a full batch.

1. Prepare your garment

Place the garment flat on the press. Remove lint and smooth out wrinkles. Keep seams, collars, zippers, and buttons outside the pressing area so the transfer receives even pressure. Briefly pre-press to remove moisture and wrinkles, taking care not to scorch the fabric.

2. Position and press

Cut apart your designs without cutting into the artwork. Place the transfer with the adhesive side against the fabric and the clear carrier film facing up. Check placement before closing the press.

Press at 300°F for 10–15 seconds, depending on your heat press. Use heavy, even pressure.

3. Peel your transfer

Hot peel

For transfers labeled hot peel, remove the carrier while it is still hot, immediately after opening the press. Hold the garment steady and peel the film back close to the fabric in one smooth movement. Avoid pulling straight upward.

Cold peel

For transfers labeled cold peel, allow the transfer and garment to cool completely before removing the carrier. Hold the garment steady and peel the film back close to the fabric in one smooth movement. Do not peel while it is still warm.

If the design lifts: Stop peeling. Lay the film back down carefully. Check the peel timing, press temperature, time, and pressure before trying again. Contact us if you are unsure; do not keep increasing the heat or press time.

4. Cool and check

Allow the garment to cool. Check that the entire design has adhered before wearing or washing. If an edge lifts or the design has not adhered, contact us for help before applying more heat. Never place the hot platen directly against the exposed design.

Garment care

  • Follow the garment’s care label.
  • Wash inside out with mild detergent. Avoid bleach and dry cleaning.
  • Do not iron directly over the printed design.

Need help?

Contact alohaprintcustoms@gmail.com with your order number, fabric type, peel type, press settings, and a photo of the issue.

Mahalo for supporting our Oʻahu small business!