My DTF Transfer Didn’t Stick — Now What? (DTF Troubleshooting Checklist)

If you just pressed a transfer and it didn’t stick (or it stuck in some spots but not others), don’t panic. Most of the time it’s a pressure, temperature, timing, peel, or garment prep issue.

At Primal Graphx — Charlotte’s #1 Premium DTF Provider, our transfers are cured properly and ready to press. So if you’re using Primal Graphx prints and you’re still seeing issues, this checklist will help you pinpoint what’s happening fast.

Fix it fast: what to do right away

1. Stop and check the basics first (don’t keep pressing over and over blindly)

2. Look at the back/adhesive side of the transfer (texture + powder coverage)

3. Confirm pressure, temp, and time

4. Confirm peel type (hot peel vs cold peel)

5. Make sure the garment is dry, flat, and lint-free

If everything checks out, then do a controlled re-press with a sheet.

Step 1: Check the transfer itself (before you blame your press)

Flip the transfer and look at the back (adhesive side).

What you want to see

• A consistent, even adhesive texture

• No bare patches

• No clumps

If you see powder clumps or uneven texture

That can cause inconsistent bonding.

Fix: Make sure you’re using transfers that are cured properly and ready to press. (This is exactly why customers order from Primal Graphx.)

If your design has super thin lines or tiny text

Ultra-thin details can be harder to apply cleanly, especially if pressure is light or the garment has texture.

Fix:

• Increase pressure

• Avoid textured fabrics for tiny details

• Consider thickening lines or adjusting the design

If you need help, we offer graphic designing to clean up artwork and make it more press-friendly.

Step 2: Check pressure (most common cause)

DTF typically needs firm, even pressure.

Signs pressure is too light:

• edges lifting

• only the center sticks

• patchy adhesion

Fix: Increase pressure and make sure the press is closing evenly across the full design.

Step 3: Check temperature and time

If temp is too low or time is too short, the adhesive won’t fully bond.

Fix:

• Verify your press temperature (some presses run hot/cold)

• Add a few seconds if needed

• Keep pressure consistent

Step 4: Confirm peel type (hot vs cold)

Peeling at the wrong time can pull the design up or weaken adhesion.

• Hot peel: peel while warm

• Cold peel: let it cool completely before peeling

Fix: If you’re not sure, test one transfer and follow the peel method that gives the cleanest release.

Step 5: Prep the garment (moisture + lint = problems)

Moisture

Moisture blocks adhesion.

Fix: Pre-press the garment for a few seconds to remove moisture.

Lint and fuzz

Lint creates weak spots.

Fix: Lint roll the press area (especially hoodies and fleece).

Step 6: Controlled re-press (only after you check the above)

If the transfer is lifting or didn’t bond fully:

1. Lay the film back down carefully (if possible)

2. Cover with parchment or a Teflon sheet

3. Press again briefly with firm pressure

Don’t overdo it—too much heat can scorch garments or flatten texture.

When the file/design is the real issue

Sometimes the transfer applies fine, but the design itself causes problems:

• super thin lines

• tiny text

• low-resolution artwork

If your design is borderline, we can help you adjust it. Primal Graphx offers graphic designing to make sure your prints come out clean.

Want transfers that press clean without the headaches?

If you want consistent adhesion, bold color, and transfers that are cured properly and ready to press, order from Primal Graphx — Charlotte’s #1 Premium DTF Provider.

Tell us what garment you’re using and what settings you’re pressing at, and we’ll help you dial it in.

— Primal Graphx TeamCharlotte’s #1 Premium DTF Provider