FAQ
SuperDTF FAQ Center
Everything you need to know about DTF, UV DTF, and more
💰 Save up to 33% with our Bulk Buyer Program!
Qualify for tiered pricing discounts when you reach spending thresholds. Bronze: 13% off, Silver: 23% off, Gold: 33% off!
What Is DTF Printing?
DTF (Direct-to-Film) is an innovative garment decoration method using specialized inks and adhesive powder to create vibrant, full-color prints. The process involves precise film printing, followed by our powder shaker and curing oven process. DTF offers unlimited colors, works on various fabrics (cotton, polyester, blends), and serves as a superior alternative to traditional screen printing with exceptional detail and durability.
What temperature settings should I use?
100% Cotton: 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 seconds
Polyester: 275°F (135°C) for 10 seconds
50/50 Blend: 300°F (150°C) for 12 seconds
Tri-blend: 275°F (135°C) for 10 seconds
Denim: 330°F (165°C) for 15 seconds
Nylon: 260°F (125°C) for 8-10 seconds
Always use 60 lbs pressure! Pre-press 5-10 seconds, peel hot immediately.
Polyester: 275°F (135°C) for 10 seconds
50/50 Blend: 300°F (150°C) for 12 seconds
Tri-blend: 275°F (135°C) for 10 seconds
Denim: 330°F (165°C) for 15 seconds
Nylon: 260°F (125°C) for 8-10 seconds
Always use 60 lbs pressure! Pre-press 5-10 seconds, peel hot immediately.
What pressure should I use?
60 lbs pressure for ALL materials! Your press should be HARD to push down. This is the #1 reason for application failures. Insufficient pressure causes poor adhesion, peeling, and washing issues. If your press closes easily, increase the pressure immediately. Proper pressure ensures even distribution across the entire design.
DTF vs Sublimation vs DTG - What's the difference?
DTF: Works on ANY fabric, vibrant on light/dark colors, slight hand-feel, 50+ washes
Sublimation: ONLY polyester/light colors, no hand-feel, permanent but limited use
DTG: Direct printing on garments, needs pre-treatment, softer feel but more expensive
DTF is most versatile and cost-effective for most applications!
Sublimation: ONLY polyester/light colors, no hand-feel, permanent but limited use
DTG: Direct printing on garments, needs pre-treatment, softer feel but more expensive
DTF is most versatile and cost-effective for most applications!
What are DTF gang sheets?
Gang sheets let you print multiple designs on a single transfer sheet, maximizing efficiency and reducing costs. Perfect for varied designs or bulk orders. Our gang sheet builder allows you to combine different logos, designs, and sizes on one sheet. Ideal for businesses needing multiple design options or testing various designs economically.
Hot peel or cold peel?
HOT PEEL - Immediately after pressing! Peel slowly from the corner while still hot for best results. After removing film, press again with Teflon sheet to eliminate sheen and improve durability. Cold peeling can cause adhesion issues and incomplete transfers.
How do I wash DTF printed items?
Wait 24 hours before first wash! Turn inside-out, wash cold or warm (max 86°F/30°C), use mild detergent, NO bleach or fabric softener. Machine dry on low or air dry for best results. Following these steps ensures 50+ washes without fading, cracking, or peeling.
Why isn't my transfer sticking?
#1 Cause: INSUFFICIENT PRESSURE! Press should be hard to close.
#2: Wrong temperature - test by touching print briefly
#3: Moisture in fabric - always pre-press
#4: Fabric coating/softener - wash first
Use infrared thermometer to verify actual temperature!
#2: Wrong temperature - test by touching print briefly
#3: Moisture in fabric - always pre-press
#4: Fabric coating/softener - wash first
Use infrared thermometer to verify actual temperature!
Can I use an iron or Cricut press?
Cricut Mini: Set Medium-High (≈300°F), 15-20 sec/section, overlap areas, 2-3 passes needed
Iron: Not recommended! Cotton setting (no steam), 30-45 sec/section, use pressing cloth
Results vary significantly - we offer FREE heat press rentals for professional results!
Iron: Not recommended! Cotton setting (no steam), 30-45 sec/section, use pressing cloth
Results vary significantly - we offer FREE heat press rentals for professional results!
What file specs do you need?
PNG or vector files, 300 DPI minimum, transparent background, RGB color mode. DON'T mirror images - we do that automatically! Low resolution? Use AI enhancers like LetsEnhance. DTF handles unlimited colors, gradients, and photographic images perfectly.
What is UV DTF?
UV DTF is for HARD SURFACES only - cups, tumblers, glass, plastic, wood, leather. NOT for fabric! Features: superior scratch resistance, waterproof, dishwasher-safe (top rack), vibrant UV-cured colors, no heat press needed. Perfect for promotional items and personalized hard goods.
How do I apply UV DTF?
Clean surface thoroughly with alcohol. Ensure completely dry. Peel transfer from backing. Apply firmly, smoothing from center outward. Squeegee to remove bubbles. No heat needed! Application takes 30 seconds. Full cure in 24 hours. Detailed instructions included with every order.
Is UV DTF dishwasher/microwave safe?
DISHWASHER: Yes, but hand washing strongly recommended! High heat can cause peeling after 10+ washes. Top rack only if dishwashing.
MICROWAVE: No - not safe for microwave use.
WATERPROOF: Very water resistant for normal use.
Best practice: Hand wash with mild soap to maximize lifespan.
MICROWAVE: No - not safe for microwave use.
WATERPROOF: Very water resistant for normal use.
Best practice: Hand wash with mild soap to maximize lifespan.
What materials work with UV DTF?
Cups, tumblers, glass items, plastic materials, leather accessories, wood surfaces, metal items, ceramic mugs. NOT for fabric - use regular DTF for fabric! Each material may have specific prep requirements. All orders include detailed instructions for your specific application.
Why does UV DTF have a raised edge?
UV DTF transfers have a characteristic raised gloss edge - this is normal! The UV-cured ink creates a slightly elevated, glossy finish that you can feel. This textured edge actually helps with durability and creates a premium, dimensional look. It's not a defect - it's a feature of the UV curing process that gives your designs depth and professional appearance.
How many dishwasher cycles can UV DTF handle?
UV DTF is very water resistant but HIGH HEAT dishwashing can cause edge peeling after 10+ washes. For maximum lifespan: hand wash recommended, use top rack only if dishwashing, avoid high-heat/sanitize cycles, use gentle detergents. With proper care, UV DTF can last years. Hand washing ensures indefinite durability.
Will UV DTF feel smooth or textured?
UV DTF has a slightly raised, glossy texture you can feel with your finger. The design sits on top of the surface rather than soaking in. Edges have a noticeable gloss ridge. This dimensional quality adds to the premium feel and helps with scratch resistance. If you need completely smooth transfers, consider our regular vinyl options.
How do I care for UV DTF items?
DO: Hand wash with mild soap, dry with soft cloth, store away from direct heat
DON'T: Use abrasive cleaners, scrub edges, expose to extreme heat (>140°F), use in microwave
DISHWASHER: Top rack only, skip heated dry, expect reduced lifespan
Following these guidelines ensures years of use!
DON'T: Use abrasive cleaners, scrub edges, expose to extreme heat (>140°F), use in microwave
DISHWASHER: Top rack only, skip heated dry, expect reduced lifespan
Following these guidelines ensures years of use!
What are die cut products?
Die cut products are custom-shaped items cut to the exact outline of your design. We offer vinyl gloss stickers, custom labels, and specialty die cut transfers. Perfect for branding, merchandise, and promotional items. No minimum order quantity!
Are vinyl stickers waterproof?
Yes, our vinyl stickers are water-resistant! Made with Roland VG3 ink on 6mil vinyl. However, they are NOT laminated - we don't offer lamination. They're suitable for water bottles and outdoor use but NOT recommended for dishwashers. Hand wash only to preserve colors and adhesive. Great for most applications but consider UV DTF for heavy-wash items.
Are your vinyl stickers laminated?
NO - our vinyl stickers are NOT laminated and we DO NOT offer lamination services. They're printed with high-quality Roland VG3 eco-solvent ink on 6mil vinyl, which provides good durability for most uses. Without lamination, avoid dishwashers and harsh scrubbing. For maximum durability needs, consider our UV DTF options instead.
Can vinyl stickers go in the dishwasher?
NO - we do NOT recommend dishwashing vinyl stickers! Without lamination, dishwasher heat and detergents will damage the ink and adhesive. Hand wash only with mild soap. For dishwasher-safe options, choose UV DTF transfers instead. Vinyl is great for laptops, cars, and light-wash water bottles, but not for heavy washing.
Will vinyl stickers fade in the sun?
Yes, colors may fade with constant UV exposure over time. Roland VG3 eco-solvent inks offer good UV resistance (typically 2-3 years outdoors), but without lamination, expect gradual fading in direct sunlight. For cars/outdoor use: park in shade when possible, expect 1-2 years of vibrant color in full sun. Indoor use maintains color much longer (5+ years).
How long do vinyl stickers last?
Indoor: 5+ years with minimal fading
Outdoor (shade): 2-3 years good color retention
Outdoor (direct sun): 1-2 years before noticeable fading
Water bottles (hand wash): 1-2 years
Cars: 1-3 years depending on sun exposure
Remember: NOT dishwasher safe, NOT laminated!
Outdoor (shade): 2-3 years good color retention
Outdoor (direct sun): 1-2 years before noticeable fading
Water bottles (hand wash): 1-2 years
Cars: 1-3 years depending on sun exposure
Remember: NOT dishwasher safe, NOT laminated!
Should I choose vinyl stickers or UV DTF?
Choose VINYL for: Laptops, cars, windows, light-use water bottles, promotional giveaways, indoor decor
Choose UV DTF for: Dishwashed items, tumblers, heavy-use drinkware, items needing maximum durability
Vinyl is more affordable but not laminated. UV DTF costs more but offers superior water/heat resistance with raised gloss finish.
Choose UV DTF for: Dishwashed items, tumblers, heavy-use drinkware, items needing maximum durability
Vinyl is more affordable but not laminated. UV DTF costs more but offers superior water/heat resistance with raised gloss finish.
How do I apply vinyl stickers properly?
Clean surface with rubbing alcohol, let dry completely. Peel backing slowly at sharp angle. Apply from one edge, smoothing as you go to avoid bubbles. Press firmly, especially edges. Wait 24 hours before washing. Avoid repositioning - adhesive weakens with multiple attempts. Apply at room temperature for best adhesion.
How do I remove vinyl stickers?
Heat with hair dryer to soften adhesive. Peel slowly from corner at 45° angle. Remove residue with Goo Gone or rubbing alcohol. For stubborn stickers: soak with warm soapy water, use plastic scraper (not metal). On cars: use heat gun carefully, clay bar for final cleanup. May leave slight ghosting on some surfaces after long-term use.
What's your refund policy?
We offer generous refunds with exceptions: NO refunds for: prints already started, low-res image issues (warned at upload), wrong designs uploaded, improper application, overheating damage, or RGB/CMYK color variations. Returns accepted within 14 days for unused items. Contact Matt@superdtf.com for help!
Why do colors look different?
Printers convert RGB to CMYK, causing slight variations. Bright neons (hot pink, electric blue, lime green) may shift slightly. Monitor calibration also affects perception. We cannot refund for minor color variations - this is inherent to all printing. Request a sample for color-critical projects.
What if my package is missing?
For packages showing "delivered" but missing: File a case with carrier (USPS/UPS) and provide reference number for reprint. We cannot refund for carrier issues but will work with you. For time-sensitive orders, contact us immediately at Matt@superdtf.com.
How fast is production?
SAME DAY PRODUCTION! Orders submitted before 3pm PST Monday-Friday ship same day! Weekend printing (Saturday/Sunday) available with rush fee at checkout. After production: 2-5 business days standard shipping, 1-2 days express. We're one of the fastest in the industry!
Can I get weekend production?
YES! Weekend production available for Saturday and Sunday with rush fee option at checkout. Regular same-day production (no rush fee) Monday-Friday before 3pm PST. Perfect for last-minute needs or weekend events. Rush fee ensures your order gets priority weekend processing.
What's the cutoff time for same-day production?
3:00 PM PST (Pacific Standard Time) Monday through Friday for same-day production and shipping! Orders after 3pm or on weekends process next business day (or same weekend with rush fee). Check your time zone: 3pm PST = 6pm EST = 5pm CST = 4pm MST. No exceptions on cutoff time - submit early to guarantee same-day!
Can I buy tax-free for resale?
YES! With valid California Resale Certificate. You'll need: valid seller's permit number, business information, and confirmation you're reselling the prints. Complete our form at superdtf.com/pages/tax-free-dtf-prints. Must be for legitimate resale purposes only.
How does Bulk Pricing work?
Save automatically with tiered discounts!
Bronze: $500/3mo = 13% off ($2.61/sq ft)
Silver: $1000/3mo = 23% off ($2.31/sq ft)
Gold: $1500/3mo = 33% off ($2.00/sq ft)
Track at bulk buyer program
Bronze: $500/3mo = 13% off ($2.61/sq ft)
Silver: $1000/3mo = 23% off ($2.31/sq ft)
Gold: $1500/3mo = 33% off ($2.00/sq ft)
Track at bulk buyer program
How does the Loyalty Program work?
Earn 10 points per $1 spent! Redeem for FREE sheets or discounts:
2,500 pts = $10 off or 22.5"x24" sheet
5,000 pts = $30 off or 22.5"x60" sheet
10,000 pts = $60 off or 22.5"x120" sheet
Points expire after 3 months! Track at loyalty page
2,500 pts = $10 off or 22.5"x24" sheet
5,000 pts = $30 off or 22.5"x60" sheet
10,000 pts = $60 off or 22.5"x120" sheet
Points expire after 3 months! Track at loyalty page
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit/debit cards, PayPal, Shop Pay, Apple Pay, Google Pay. Purchase orders available for qualified businesses. Tax-exempt purchases require valid resale certificate. International orders welcome with additional shipping fees.