THE PHILLY STANDARD: OFFICIAL DTF PRESSING INSTRUCTIONS

Don't wing it. Using a heat press is a science, not a guessing game. Follow this recipe exactly to get that "concrete durability" we promise.

⚠️ THE GOLDEN RULES (READ THIS FIRST)

  • TEMPERATURE: 300°F - 320°F (150°C - 160°C)

  • TIME: 10 - 12 Seconds

  • PRESSURE: HEAVY. (If you are using a manual press, you should struggle a little to close it).

  • PEEL: Hot or COLD. Either lightning fast or stone cold. Do not touch it while it's warm.

STEP 1: THE PRE-PRESS (Crucial)

Moisture is the enemy. Your t-shirt is full of water you can't see.

  1. Set your heat press to 300°F.

  2. Place your blank shirt on the platen.

  3. Press it for 5-10 seconds without a transfer.

  4. This removes moisture and flattens the fibers for a smooth canvas.

STEP 2: THE MAIN EVENT

  1. Place your transfer on the shirt (White ink side down, image side up).

  2. Cover with a Teflon sheet or Parchment paper (optional, but recommended).

  3. PRESS FIRM: Clamp down with HEAVY pressure for 10-12 seconds.

    • Pro Tip: If you are using a detailed design or small text, lean toward heavy pressure to drive that adhesive into the fabric weave.

STEP 3: THE COLD PEEL (Don't Rush)

This is where most rookies fail.

  1. Remove the shirt from the heat press.

  2. Lay it flat on a table or cold surface.

  3. WAIT. Let it cool down completely. It should feel cool to the touch.

  4. Once it's cold, peel the film off in one smooth, continuous motion.

    • If the design lifts: STOP. Lay the film back down and press again for 5 seconds with more pressure. Then let it cool again.

STEP 4: THE SECOND PRESS (The Lock-In)

You aren't done yet. The print needs to be sealed.

  1. Place the shirt back on the press.

  2. Cover the design with Parchment Paper (for a Matte/Vintage finish) or a Teflon Sheet (for a Glossy/Sport finish).

  3. Press again for 5-10 seconds.

  4. This drives the ink deep into the fibers and ensures washability.

🔧 TROUBLESHOOTING

The print is peeling off after a wash.

  • Cause: Not enough pressure or not enough heat during the first press.

  • Fix: Increase your pressure knob. You need that heavy clamp to fuse the adhesive.

The print feels rough or has a texture.

  • Cause: Too much heat or pressed for too long.

  • Fix: Lower your temp to 300°F and keep it strictly to 10 seconds.

I see blue/red dye coming through the white ink (Dye Migration).

  • Cause: You are pressing 100% Polyester too hot.

  • Fix: For poly blends or jerseys, lower your temp to 280°F and press for 15 seconds. Use a teflon pressing pillow if needed.