Troubleshooting Guide

Having an issue with your DTF transfer? Most pressing problems can be corrected by adjusting pressure, temperature, or press time.

Transfer Not Sticking

If the transfer lifts when peeling:

• Stop peeling and lay the film back down.
• Press again for a few additional seconds.
• Make sure you're using medium-firm, even pressure.
• Check that seams, collars, or pockets aren't preventing even pressure.
• Verify your heat press is reaching the correct temperature.

Recommended starting settings: 280°F for 10 seconds.

Edges Lifting After Pressing

Cover the transfer and repress for 5–10 seconds with medium-firm pressure. Uneven or insufficient pressure is one of the most common causes of lifting.

Transfer Looks Blurry or Pixelated

This is usually related to the original artwork. Low-resolution or blurry artwork will print the same way it was submitted.

For best results, use a high-resolution PNG at 300 DPI whenever possible.

Unwanted Background Printed

White, colored, or checkerboard backgrounds that are part of your artwork will print.

Make sure your artwork has a true transparent background before uploading. We do not automatically remove backgrounds.

Colors Look Different

Colors can vary between your screen and the finished transfer because monitors, phones, and tablets display colors differently.

For projects requiring a specific color match, we recommend ordering a test print first.

Still Having Trouble?

If you've checked your artwork and pressing settings and are still experiencing an issue, contact Southeast Prints with your order number and photos of the problem so we can take a look.