A starting point for time, temperature, and pressure — always test on a scrap piece first, since settings vary by heat press, fabric, and film.
Start in the middle of that range and adjust based on how your first test press turns out. A press that runs hot or cold compared to its display can throw this off, so a test press matters more than the exact number on the dial.
Lay the transfer exactly where you want the finished design, film-side down against the garment. Double-check placement before you press — there's no repositioning once it's bonded.
Apply even pressure across the whole design for 10–15 seconds. Uneven pressure is the most common cause of a transfer that bonds in the middle but lifts at the edges.
Hot-peel film comes off while it's still warm, right after pressing. Cold-peel film needs to cool completely first, or the design can lift with the backing. If you're not sure which type you have, let it cool — a cold peel attempted hot fails much more often than a hot peel attempted cold.
Cover the design with a parchment sheet or Teflon sheet and press again for 5–10 seconds. This second press helps the transfer bond fully and hold up through repeated washes.
More on file prep, sizing, or ordering? Check the full FAQ or read the file prep guide.
