What Are DTF Transfers?
DTF (Direct-to-Film) transfers are the fastest way to create custom apparel at home or in your shop. We print your artwork onto a special film using our expanded 9-color gamut DTF printer — CMYKW + RGB + Orange — then apply a hot-melt adhesive powder. The result is a ready-to-press transfer that hot-peels like butter and bonds permanently to fabric.
Unlike screen printing, there’s no setup fee or minimum quantity. Unlike vinyl, there’s no weeding. Just press and peel.
Why Pixel Print Apparel DTF Transfers Stand Out
- Instant Peel Technology — Our film peels like butter, hot or cold. No fighting the carrier sheet.
- 9-Color Expanded Gamut — CMYKW + RGB + Orange hits colors most DTF printers can’t touch.
- Individually Cut & Organized — Every transfer is cut to your selected size and packaged by image. No trimming, no sorting.
- Same-Day Processing — Order by 2PM CST and your prints ship the same day.
- Free Shipping — On print orders over $50 to the contiguous US.
Best Fabrics for DTF Transfers
- Cotton & Cotton Blends
- Polyester & Poly Blends
- Canvas (Cold Peel Recommended)
- Most Textiles
DTF Transfers vs. Screen Printing vs. Vinyl
| Method | Setup Cost | Minimum Order | Weeding Required | Color Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DTF Transfers | $0 | 1 | No | Unlimited |
| Screen Printing | High | 12-24+ | No | Per screen |
| Heat Transfer Vinyl | $0 | 1 | Yes | Per layer |
For small businesses and crafters, DTF is the clear winner: no minimums, vibrant full-color prints, and 10-second press times.
How to Order Custom DTF Transfers
- Upload your design — Use our online gang sheet builder, upload a premade gang sheet, or order by individual image.
- Choose your size — We offer 12 sizes from Brand (2″x2″) to Oversized Back (12.5″x16″).
- We print & ship same-day — Orders by 2PM CST same-day processed.
- Press it in 10 seconds — Heat press at 275-285°F for 10 seconds, peel instantly.
Heat Press Settings for Best Results
Temperature:
– Cotton & Blends: 275-285°F
– Polyester: 275°F
Pressure:
– Medium Heavy to Heavy
– ~170 PSI recommended
Timing:
– First press (dry garment): 3-5 seconds
– Second press (transfer): 10 seconds (8 for poly)
– Third press (finishing sheet): 5 seconds
Common Questions About DTF Transfers
What DPI do you need?
300+ DPI minimum. Our builder has a built-in DPI quality checker — green border means good to go, red means upsize your file.
Can I order just one transfer?
Yes. No minimums. Order one or a hundred.
Do I need a heat press?
Yes, for best results. A clamshell or swing-away heat press with medium-heavy pressure is recommended.
How long do DTF transfers last?
Properly pressed DTF transfers outlast the garment. Wash inside out, tumble dry low.
Sterling Jenkins –
Katie at Pixel Print is an amazing person and she puts that into her work. I have been using Pixel Print for months on various products and projects. She always makes sure everything is just right before she’s satisfied. She makes it so easy for me to make my own t-shirts with her gang sheets. I cannot praise Katie and Pixel Print Apparel enough.
Melissa Hatfield –
Super excited to order this product!