Use Code: JANFREESHIP25 & Get Free Shipping On Your Next Supply Order!

Free Shipping in the Contiguous US Learn More

Use Code: NINJA & Save 20% Off Your First Order Of Transfers

YOUR NEXT SUPPLY ORDER SHIPS FREE!

JANFREESHIP25
USE CODE: JANFREESHIP25

OmniDTF Sample Print Instructions


How to Apply Omni DTF Transfers

To ensure flawless results, it’s important to follow the correct application process. Here’s a step-by-step guide from unboxing to final press.

Step 1: Prepare Your Transfer

  • Cut Away Excess Film
    Use scissors to trim around the design, following the "cut line" provided. You only want to transfer the image, so remove any extra film.

Step 2: Set Up Your Heat Press

  • Temperature: 260°F to 320°F
  • Time: 20 seconds for the first press
  • Pressure: 5 to 7 on your heat press (this equals roughly 50 to 70 lbs of force)

Pro Tip: If your heat press has a pressure setting of 4 or less, it’s still possible to get a clean transfer. Just make sure to increase pressure on your follow-up press to ensure full adhesion.

Step 3: Position Your Transfer

  • Place your T-shirt (or garment) on the heat press.
  • Position the design where you want it, like a left chest print or full front design. A good rule of thumb is to measure halfway down from the collar to center the print.

Pro Tip: If you’re working with organic cotton or sensitive materials, pre-press the garment for a few seconds to remove moisture and wrinkles. This will create a smoother surface for your transfer.

Step 4: The First Press

  • Place a Teflon sheet on top of the transfer to protect it from direct heat.
  • Press at 320°F for 20 seconds with 50-70 lbs of pressure.
  • Carefully open the press slowly. Sudden suction can cause the transfer film to lift unexpectedly, resulting in a poor release.

Pro Tip: Don’t yank the press up. Lift it gently to avoid creating a vacuum effect that can pull the transfer off the fabric.

Step 5: Peel While Hot (Hot Peel Transfer)

  • As soon as you open the press, remove the Teflon sheet and immediately peel the film off while it’s still hot.
  • Peel slowly and steadily, keeping the angle low. If done right, the design will remain firmly on the fabric.

Pro Tip: If the design isn’t releasing cleanly, it’s likely a pressure issue. For the next transfer, increase pressure and try again.

Step 6: The Second Press

  • After peeling, you’ll want to “seal” the transfer with a second press.
  • Cover with parchment paper, Teflon, or canvas fabric (depending on your desired finish).
  • Press for 10-20 seconds at 320°F.
  • Using canvas can add a subtle texture to the print, giving it a more “premium” look, while Teflon leaves a smoother, shinier finish.

Pro Tip: If you notice any press marks (like lines or indentations around the print), don’t panic. You can remove these by using a fabric steamer or spraying a light mist of water on the area. The marks will also disappear after the first wash.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

  • Check Your Pressure: Consistent, even pressure is key. Set your press to a 5-7 pressure setting, but if it’s too light, increase it for the second press.
  • Avoid Heat-Sensitive Materials: DTF transfers aren't suitable for materials like poly bags or hard surfaces. Stick with cotton, polyester, or blends.
  • Prevent Lift-Off: If you notice the film lifting up with the design, adjust your press release to be slower and gentler.
  • Wash Test Your Prints: Every material reacts differently, so make sure to wash-test your transfer on different fabrics. This helps you dial in the right time, temperature, and pressure for your specific needs.

    Common Issues and How to Fix Them

    Here’s a list of the most common problems you may encounter when using Omni DTF transfers — plus simple, effective solutions to get you back on track.

    Issue Cause Solution
    Design Won’t Peel Cleanly Pressure too low, temperature too low, or the transfer was cooled before peeling. Solution: Ensure you're using 5-7 pressure (50-70 lbs) and pressing at 320°F for 20 seconds. Peel immediately while hot. If it still doesn’t peel cleanly, increase the pressure slightly.
    Transfer Lifting Off (Not Adhering Fully) Pressure was too low, or the garment wasn’t pre-pressed to remove moisture. Solution: Increase the pressure (6-7) and re-press. Pre-press the garment for 5-10 seconds before applying the transfer to remove moisture and wrinkles.
    Rough, Bumpy Texture Low pressure during the first or second press, or intentional texture was added using canvas or parchment. Solution: Increase pressure to 6-7 and ensure you press firmly during both presses. For a smooth finish, use a Teflon sheet on the second press. For a textured finish, use canvas or parchment.
    Excessive Shine on Print Teflon sheet was used on the second press, which can create a glossy finish. Solution: For a matte finish, use parchment paper or canvas on the second press instead of Teflon. This will give the design a more natural, "screen-printed" look.
    Press Marks Around the Design (Indentations on Fabric) Excessive pressure, incorrect Teflon placement, or garment was over-pressed. Solution: Reduce pressure slightly (target 5-6) and avoid pressing the garment for too long. To remove press marks, lightly mist the area with water and use a fabric steamer or let it run through a wash cycle.
    Film or Transfer Sticking to the Teflon or Parchment The vacuum effect from opening the clamshell too quickly pulls the film up with it. Solution: Open the press slowly and carefully to avoid a suction effect. If you see the film lift, press it back down and increase pressure for the next press.
    White Ink Looks Dull or Grayish Not enough pressure or incorrect press time. Solution: Increase the pressure to 6-7 and press for the full 20 seconds. For a brighter white, ensure you’re using the correct Omni DTF powder and film.
    Blurry or Fuzzy Edges (Bleeding Image) Excessive heat, excessive press time, or fabric type not compatible. Solution: Lower the press time (try 15 seconds) and ensure the temperature stays in the 260-320°F range. Use high-quality garments like 100% cotton or polyester blends.
    Cracking After Washing Pressure was too low, or second press was skipped. Solution: Ensure you do a second press with proper pressure (6-7) for 10-20 seconds. If cracking occurs after washing, increase pressure or check if the transfer was fully adhered before peeling.
    Faded or Washed-Out Colors After Washing First press or second press wasn’t done properly, or garment wasn’t pre-pressed to remove moisture. Solution: Pre-press the garment to remove moisture. Ensure you're doing a full 20-second first press at 320°F, followed by a 10-20 second second press to seal the transfer. Use proper wash settings (cold wash, gentle cycle, no harsh detergents).
    Carrier Film Lifting Design During Peel Pressure too low, or the press was released too quickly, creating a vacuum effect. Solution: Open the press slowly and avoid "popping" it open. Apply more pressure (6-7) and check that the transfer is still hot when peeling. Hot peel transfers must be peeled while still warm.

TOP-TIER SERVICE
Back to top