DTF Transfers Not Sticking or Peeling?

Here’s What You Can Control

DTF transfers are powerful and flexible—but when they peel, crack, or fade, it can feel like a mystery. The truth is: most issues come down to a few avoidable missteps during pressing or material handling.

The Issue:

Sublimation blanks are often coated in a slick polymer layer meant to hold sublimation ink—but that same coating repels DTF adhesive. That means your transfer may not bond at all.

What You Can Do:

• Don’t press on blanks labeled only for sublimation.
• Use fabrics that are:
  • Cotton
  • Cotton/poly blends
  • Non-coated polyester
• If you must use a sublimation blank:
  • Pre-press for 5–10 seconds to remove moisture
  • Use firm pressure
  • Try 310°F for 15 seconds, allow it to cool completely, then peel
  • Post-press for 5 seconds with a cover sheet

The Issue:

Even if it looks good at first, poor pressing technique can cause lifting after the first wash.

What You Can Do:

• Use a quality heat press with even pressure — handheld presses often miss corners or edges
• Stick to cold peel unless specifically told otherwise
• Always do a 5-second post-press after peeling to seal the transfer into the fibers
• Wait 24–48 hours before washing, and wash inside-out in cold water

Ready to Print With Confidence?

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to bring your designs to life. Start your next DTF order and enjoy worry-free transfers with top-tier results.

The Issue:

When the transfer won’t lift cleanly from the film, it’s usually a sign of incorrect peel timing or pressure issues during pressing.

What You Can Do:

• Make sure the transfer completely cools before peeling (cold peel means cold)
• Peel slowly and at a sharp angle
• Use firm, even pressure across the entire design
• Don’t skip the pre-press: it evens the surface, removes moisture, and improves grip

The Issue:

If your transfer looks dull or uneven, it may not be adhering deep enough into the fabric.

What You Can Do:

• Always pre-press to flatten the surface and remove moisture
• Make sure your heat press reaches 310°F with even pressure
• Try a 5-second post-press using parchment or Teflon to revive color and lock in adhesion
• Use fabrics with smooth, tightly woven surfaces — rough or loose-knit fabrics reduce contact

Final Tip: Don’t Guess — Test

Always test new blanks before full production. Even small differences in fabric coating or weave can make or break a transfer.