Pre-Press

• Start by adjusting your heat press to the ideal temperature, based on whether your garment is 100% cotton (300F), 100% poly (260F), or a blend (280F). 

• Pro Tip: Before pressing, use a lint roller to ensure that all stray fibers are removed from the pressing surface. 

• Optional: Place your garment on the heat press and press for 5-10 seconds to eliminate wrinkles and moisture. This will prepare the fabric for the transfer. Note: Some companies may recommend the pre-press step, but we typically do not recommended it unless your garment is exceptionally wrinkly.

1st Press

• Carefully position the DTF transfer in the desired location on your garment and use your chosen method to align it as needed. If you are pressing on hats or other oddly shaped items we recommend using heat resistant tape to ensure the transfer won't move. In general, heat tape is not required as your garment should be laying flat. 

• Once aligned properly, press at the recommended temperature for your material with HEAVY pressure for (8-10 seconds 100% cotton/blends), (3-10 seconds 100% poly)

• Pro Tip: When pressing on a material that you have never used before, you may need to do a test run and adjust your settings to find the sweet spot with what works for your setup.

Instant/Hot Peel

• After pressing, you can peel immediately or allow your garment to cool for 3-15 seconds. Slowly peel the transfer starting from one heavy design corner. If it doesn't release easily, let it cool completely and then try again. 

• Note: If you encounter significant resistance while peeling, troubleshoot as follows. 

1. If the design does not transfer after pressing, it means there was not enough pressure, heat or time. Try pressing again with more pressure and time(+3 seconds). 

2. If the transfer is still not adhering after pressing and cooling, try adding increments of 10°F until you find a temperature setting that gives you the best results for your setup. 
**PLEASE NOTE: The additional presses will NOT damage the transfer.

• Pro Tip: We recommend having an infrared heat gun to test the temperature of your heat press. This will allow you to know if it is heating accurately and if there are any "cool" zones.

2nd Press

• Cover your design using Parchment paper and press again for 8- 10 seconds. (3-8 seconds 100% poly). This second press will increase durability, remove shine and soften the design. If you prefer a glossy finish, you can use a Teflon sheet for the final press. 

• Pro Tip: You should be able to see fabric lines showing through the design after you have completed this step. This ensures that the design is properly adhered. 

Conclusion

Congratulations, you're now a pro at using Armor Ink DTF transfers! This guide isn't just about educating you; it’s about empowering you to create professional-quality garments every time. 

For any questions or additional guidance, email our team at support@armorink.com