Heat Transfer Printing

Heat transfer printing first prints a design onto specialized transfer paper or film, then uses a heat press to transfer it onto fabric under the right temperature and pressure. It’s a flexible technique often combined with other methods — DTF is in fact a form of heat transfer through film.

Why choose heat transfer

• Vivid color that holds fine detail and sharpness even in complex designs.
• Fast production time — well suited to rush orders.
• Several surface finishes are possible depending on the transfer paper/film used.

Limitations to know

• The transfer film sits on top of the fabric, so it’s less durable and less soft than DTG or embroidery on cotton — it can peel if machine-washed on high heat or ironed directly — see why printed shirts peel, crack or fade.
• Not suited to very large print areas — a thick film over a wide area stiffens the fabric and reduces breathability.
• For complex multi-color designs like photographs, DTG usually gives a softer, more natural result.