DTF FAQ | Crafty Casey’s
DTF FAQ
Have questions about ordering DTF transfers, uploading artwork, gang sheets, or pressing your transfers? Here are answers to common DTF questions.
DTF Transfer Questions
What are DTF transfers?
DTF stands for Direct to Film. Your design is printed onto a special transfer film and then heat pressed onto compatible garments or blanks.
What can DTF transfers be used on?
DTF transfers work well on cotton, polyester, blends, and many other fabric types. They are commonly used on shirts, hoodies, crewnecks, tote bags, and more.
Do I need a heat press?
Yes. A heat press is recommended for best results. A household iron is not recommended because it does not usually provide even heat and pressure.
What size can you print?
Our DTF transfers are available up to 22 inches wide, with longer gang sheet lengths available depending on the product option selected.
Artwork Questions
What file type should I upload?
PNG files are preferred for DTF orders.
Does my artwork need to be 300 DPI?
Yes, 300 DPI is recommended for the cleanest print quality. Low-resolution or blurry artwork may print blurry.
Does the background need to be transparent?
Yes. Artwork should have a transparent background. Any white box, black box, shadow, watermark, ghost pixels, or extra marks may print exactly as uploaded.
What are ghost pixels?
Ghost pixels are tiny leftover marks around your design that may be hard to see on screen but can show up when printed.
Do you fix my artwork before printing?
Orders are printed based on the file provided. If your artwork needs editing, cleanup, resizing, background removal, or design help, please contact us before ordering. Additional design fees may apply.
Will my colors match exactly?
Exact color matching is not guaranteed. DTF printing uses CMYK printing, and colors can appear different from what you see on a phone, tablet, or computer screen.
Gang Sheet Questions
What is a gang sheet?
A gang sheet is one large sheet with multiple designs arranged together. This lets you fit several logos, images, or designs onto one print sheet.
Do I arrange the gang sheet myself?
Unless otherwise stated, customers are responsible for arranging artwork correctly on the gang sheet.
Can I put multiple designs on one gang sheet?
Yes. You can place multiple designs on one gang sheet as long as they fit within the selected sheet size.
Should I leave space between designs?
Yes. Leave enough space between each design so they can be cut apart easily after printing.
Pressing Questions
What temperature should I press DTF transfers at?
We recommend starting at 290–300°F.
How long should I press?
We recommend pressing for 5–7 seconds using medium pressure.
Are your transfers hot peel?
Yes, our transfers are generally hot peel. Peel the film hot using a smooth and even motion.
Do I need a second press?
Yes. We recommend a final press for 3–5 seconds using parchment paper, kraft paper, butcher paper, or a teflon sheet.
What if my transfer is not sticking?
Check your temperature, pressure, and press time. Most sticking issues are caused by not enough pressure, not enough heat, or not enough time.
Wash & Care Questions
How should I wash garments with DTF transfers?
Wash inside out using cold or warm water. Avoid bleach and harsh detergents.
Can the garment go in the dryer?
Yes, but tumble dry low is recommended. Hang drying may help extend the life of the design.
Can I iron over the design?
Do not iron directly over the design.
Order Help
What if I uploaded the wrong file?
Contact us as soon as possible. If your order has not been printed yet, we may be able to update the file. Once production has started, changes may not be possible.
Can I contact you before ordering?
Yes. If you are unsure about your artwork, sizing, gang sheet setup, or pressing instructions, please contact us before ordering.