How to Heat Press DTF on Polyester?
Polyester is a synthetic material, known for its durability and wrinkle resistance. It’s a staple in both fashion apparel and sportswear.
Among the various printing techniques, Direct-to-Film (DTF) transfer is one of the easiest and most flexible methods for decorating polyester and its blends. However, the DTF results are dependent on how accurately you set the time and temperature. If the temperature is too high or the press time too long, it can result in scorching or distortion of the fabric.
No one wants a ruined garment, right? So, continue reading this blog to learn the right way to heat press DTF on polyester. We will discuss all the necessary supplies and provide detailed instructions to ensure your projects turn out perfectly every time.
In This Article
- Tools and Supplies Needed
- Preparing Your Polyester Garment
- Settings for Heat Pressing DTF on Polyester
- The Heat Pressing Process
- FAQs Related to Heat Pressing DTF on Polyester
Tools and Supplies Needed
To get started with DTF, you'll need the following DTF supplies:
DTF Transfer Supplies
(Printer, Transfer Film, Inks, Adhesive Powder, curing Oven)
DTF transfers are available pre-made, but for customized ones, you mostly have to create them at your end. To do so, you’ll need graphic design software or an AI generator like AI Make.
For printing, a dedicated DTF printer equipped with specialized DTF inks and transfer film is necessary. Although it’s possible to convert inkjet printers for DTF use, they require frequent use and cleaning to prevent clogging.
A more reliable option is the xTool Apparel Printer. It features dual Epson print heads capable of high-resolution printing at 720 x 1080 DPI. This printer can handle film sizes up to 14 by 18 inches and complete such prints in just 2 minutes.
For other DTF setups, you might need to manually apply powder and use a curing oven. The xTool, however, offers a shaker oven unit that integrates directly with the printer, automating the entire DTF transfer film process. Simply input your design, and the output transfer film is ready.
Heat Press
Heat Press is another essential tool that needs to be chosen wisely. Avoid using a regular iron as it cannot provide uniform pressure, which may lead to sticking issues.
A modern choice is the xTool Heat Press, available in two variants: mini press and smart press, suitable for various design jobs. The mini press is ideal for smaller designs on polyester shirt sides or caps, while the smart press supports larger, full-print designs. It can operate hands-free with a clamping setup or be manually positioned on a flat surface. The best part: controls are wireless and preset parameters are provided. So, it’s both safe and easy for newcomers.
Lint Roller
To remove lint and fibers from polyester fabric, particularly if the material has been previously worn or washed.
Parchment Paper
As a protective between transfer film and heat press, to prevent scorching of fabric and apply uniform heat to the film.
Preparing Your Polyester Garment
If you’re using a new garment, it’s usually clean. However, if the polyester has been washed, it may carry moisture, lint, or wrinkles. You’ll need to dry it, iron it, and then use a lint roller to remove any fibers that might interfere with the design.
Settings for Heat Pressing DTF on Polyester
Polyester is sensitive to heat, and high temperatures could cause scorching, while too low temperatures may not transfer the design properly. Similarly, if the time is set too high, it could damage the fabric. So, setting it optimally is crucial.
The actual heat press settings depend on the type of polyester blend. For 100% polyester, the recommended settings are 270 to 275°F for about 10 seconds, with the pressure set to medium.
The Heat Pressing Process
Place the polyester fabric on the heat press, ensuring it is free of wrinkles and not stretched. Then, add the DTF transfer on top, followed by a sheet of parchment paper. Heat press once for 10 seconds using the settings mentioned.
After the first press, remove the parchment paper, rub the film with a cloth, and perform a secondary press for about 5 seconds. (Another option is to remove the transfer film and press again with parchment paper on top.)
Ideally, you should let the film cool before removing it. However, check the manufacturer's instructions to see whether the transfer is a hot peel or cold peel, and then remove it accordingly.
FAQs Related to Heat Pressing DTF on Polyester
Can you use DTF on polyester?
Yes, DTF is compatible with almost all fabrics, including polyester, cotton, and their blends. It works effectively on any fabric type, regardless of color, including the darker ones.
Can you use DTF on 100% polyester?
DTF is effective on 100% polyester as well as on blends where polyester is not the dominant material. Unlike sublimation, it does not require a specific percentage of polyester to function correctly.
Why is my DTF transfer not sticking to polyester?
This issue is likely due to incorrect temperature and time settings. To ensure the design adheres properly to the fabric, consider performing a secondary press for a few additional seconds.
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