Step 1 – Printing on Film
– Using a DTF inkjet printer, insert Kodak DTF/FTF transfer film in printer paper tray or on paper roll holder
– For Dark shirts: • print color image on the film • print white image layer on top of the color image
– For Light shirts: • print color image on the film
Step 2 – Powder Application
– Apply the Kodak DTF/FTF hot-melt powder uniformly on top of the wet print
– White powder may be used for all applications or black powder my be chosen for dark work
– Powder may be sprinkled manually onto the print in a tray and agitated to cover print completely
• NOTE: an automated commercial shaker may also be used for powder application
– Ensure that the powder is evenly spread over the printed surface of the film
– Carefully remove excess powder
Step 3 – Melting the Powder
– Place the film with the printed image and the applied powder in a Curing Oven and heat for 2-3 minutes at 100-120ºC
OR
– Place the film inside a heat press, hovering and not applying pressure. A 4 to 7 mm gap between the film and the heat press top plate is recommended, for 3-5 minutes at 140-150ºC. Do not completely close the press.
Step 4 – Pre-pressing
– Pre-press the fabric prior to transfer of the image by the film for 2 to 5 seconds
• Pre-pressing will flatten the fabric and remove excess humidity contained in the fabric
• Pre-pressing helps in successful transfer of the image from the film onto the fabric
Step 5 – Transfer
– The film with the image and the melted powder is placed on the pre-pressed fabric in the heat press
– Press/Cure the image to the fabric for 10-20 seconds at 160-180ºC
Step 6 – Cold Peel
– Allow the film/image attached to the fabric to cool completely
– Separate the film from the fabric, leaving the desired image on the fabric
Step 7 – Post-pressing
– A post-press process is highly recommended for best results and high-performance parameters such as wash and rub fastness
– Re-press the image on the fabric for 10-20 seconds at 160-180ºC
