6 Tips to Make DTF Prints Softer

Consider holding a brand-new print T-shirt in your hand, with the rigid, heavy design up against the softness of the shirt. How to make DTF transfers feel softer? If you've ever had that plasticky, creepy feeling, then you understand why softness matters to DTF printing.

Don't panic—you're not the only person struggling to create transfers that are comfortable to wear and bright. The positive is that with good techniques and high-quality materials, you can make your soft DTF transfers into comfortable light garments that look as wonderful as they feel.

Below are 6 useful tips to enable you to get the best balance of comfort and durability:

One of the ways to influence the softness of your DTF prints is by adjusting the settings in your RIP software.

By controlling the flow of ink, you can reduce the amount of ink that is being laid down on the film, producing a lighter, more flexible transfer that is softer to touch on the garment.

The majority of RIP software bundles also allow you to have holes in the air, which will prevent hardening of the design.

But do remember that changing the ink output also influences the saturation and richness of your design—too little ink may produce flat colors, while too much will make your print dense and plasticky. The trick is finding the right balance so your DTF transfers are soft and yet nice to look at.

One of the most beneficial and simplest methods is running a second heat press after peeling. The second press pushes the inks deeper into the fabric, making it softer and smoother to the touch.

A second press delivers several important advantages that enhance the overall quality of DTF transfers.

In the first place, it reduces unsightly glare, giving the print a more natural, softer, and in-store-friendly finish that is professional and easy to wear.

Second, the added pressure and heat cause excess adhesive powder to pass on and vaporize, typically the reason for rigid or plasticky prints. Without this residue, the transfer is smoother and softer on fabric.

Lastly, a second press not only improves washability and durability by pushing the inks deeper into the fibers, but also ensures that the design stays bright and intact through repeated washes. These features alone collectively make a second press to be an integral part of fulfilling high-quality, durable and customer-ready DTF prints.

One press might be all some vendors say they need, but experienced printers know the true secret—a second press makes the print come alive, adding distinct softness and a sheen, professional finish.

The type of cover sheet that you apply when pressing can make a big difference in the final appearance and feel of your DTF transfers.

Teflon sheets are a favorite for obtaining a smooth, glossy appearance that enhances color vibrancy as well as gives the print a sleek, polished appearance.

On the other hand, parchment or butcher paper yields a lighter, airier finish, making the garment less obtrusive and more comfortable to wear against the skin—a top pick if having a natural, store-quality finish is of the essence.

For other users who wish to try out some of the special effects, worn-out t-shirts can be used to produce very subtle textures that also serve to cut down on excess shine, leaving a more matte and professional print.

Trying out different cover sheets enables you to tailor the finish of your DTF transfers to meet specific project aims and client preferences.

The film and ink are also quite crucial for the sake of producing soft, color-rich, and durable DTF transfers.

The quality of DTF film directly correlates to the ink's ability to be absorbed and the uniformity of the adhesion of the adhesive powder to the surface. A heavily coated film will deposit too much thickness onto the shirt, creating a thick, plasticky hand, while a lightly coated film will prevent the ink from adhering well, resulting in uneven prints that are not very durable.

The same goes for inks, since it is the inks, and their quality, that determine the intensity, pliable and longevity of the print. A lower quality or prudently made ink may crack and peel, or feel rubbery, all of which not only detract from the visual value of the print, but also the durability and wearability of the fabric.

Buying supplies that go together will help ensure that your prints are not only softer but will last longer.

Excessive powder is a common culprit for stiff, plasticky prints. Controlling powder application makes a huge difference. Doing it properly with the powder will allow for soft, high-quality DTF prints, but it is important you have the right tools first.

The front heater on my printer allows the ink to dry a little (preferably no more than a few seconds) before the powder is applied, which will help prevent the transfer from soaking up too much adhesive powder and making the final product stiff or rubbery. 

Once the print has successfully printed, it is equally important to remove excess powder thoroughly in order to find a smooth surface finish.

There is a balance to dial in here, so your prints are soft and wearable, rather than stiff and heavy.

Curing is the final process that seals the deal. Ink that is under-cured can make the print sticky and tacky to the touch. Over-cure, and the design becomes hardened and less pliable.

Always follow the curing directions recommended by your ink and film supplier. Getting the time and temperature right means your DTF transfers are not only soft to the touch but also durable through washes.

The type of fabric you choose has a direct impact on how DTF transfers feel and perform. 

The optimal material for DTF transfers is based on your project objective. Cotton is the best in softness and color brightness, polyester is the go-to for performance wear, leather and nylon are perfect for heavy-duty accessories, denim is great for strength-supporting designs, and blends are the most balanced between comfort and power.

Below, we’ve broken down the best fabrics for DTF printing, their key properties, and their suitability for different applications.

The optimal material for DTF transfers is based on your project objective. Cotton is the best in softness and color brightness, polyester is the go-to for performance wear, leather and nylon are perfect for heavy-duty accessories, denim is great for strength-supporting designs, and blends are the most balanced between comfort and power.

Learning how to make DTF transfers feel softer is all about balancing technique and materials. From a second press to proper curing, every detail plays a role in transforming your transfers into soft, professional-quality prints. By applying these five tips, you’ll elevate your DTF printing results and give customers the comfort and quality they expect.