How to apply DTF, UV DTF & screen print transfers
Start with the transfer type listed on your order. Then follow its application settings and test on the exact garment or hard good before decorating the full batch. Need an answer while you are working? Use the quick reference or jump directly to your application guide.
Product-specific instructions supplied with an order take priority over the standard settings on this page.
Which transfer are you applying?
| Transfer type | Application starting point | Where to go |
|---|---|---|
| AMS Instant Peel DTF | 296–315°F, 10–12 seconds, high pressure, immediate peel while hot. | DTF application guide |
| UV DTF Peel & Stick | Clean, dry hard surface. Pressure application. No heat press. | UV DTF application guide |
| Standard Plastisol Screen Print | 335–350°F, 12–15 seconds, high pressure. Follow the plastisol peel and finishing steps. | Screen print application guide |
| Puff and other specialty transfers | Use the instructions for the exact product ordered. | Product-specific instructions or application help |
These settings reflect AMS's currently published standard guides. Product-specific instructions supplied with an order take priority, and specialty products do not inherit the standard settings.
Applying AMS Instant Peel DTF transfers
Pre-press the garment for 10 seconds. Position the transfer on a flat decoration area, then press for 10–12 seconds at 296–315°F using high pressure.
Open the press and peel immediately while the transfer is hot. Do not add a cooling step to the normal Instant Peel workflow.
The standard guide also includes an optional covered finishing press for 10–15 seconds. This is not a universal instruction for specialty transfers.
Text the DTF settings to your phone
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Applying UV DTF peel-and-stick transfers
Clean the surface and allow it to dry completely. Check that the cleaner is suitable for the product's finish.
Plan the placement before exposing the adhesive. Remove the backing, apply the transfer, and work it down with firm, overlapping pressure. Pay particular attention to small lettering and corners.
Peel the top carrier slowly at a low angle. If a detail lifts, lay the carrier back down, press that area again, and retry carefully.
Applying standard plastisol screen print transfers
Set the press to the standard starting range of 335–350°F, 12–15 seconds, and high pressure.
Pre-press the garment for 10 seconds. Apply the transfer to a flat area and complete the initial press. Allow it to reach the warm to lukewarm-cool peel stage described in the guide.
The standard AMS plastisol instructions include a covered final press for 20–30 seconds. Do not apply that finishing step to puff transfers.
Applying puff and other specialty transfers
Puff, glitter, foil, and other specialty transfers should not be grouped under one generic temperature or finishing rule. Locate the exact transfer on your order and follow its specified temperature, pressure, time, peel condition, and any finishing restrictions.
Important for puff: AMS's published instructions warn against a second press after peeling. Do not add the standard DTF or plastisol finishing step to a puff application.
Cannot find the instructions for your exact transfer? Contact us before pressing the batch.
Something went wrong?
Stop before repeating the problem across the order. Confirm the transfer type, peel timing, flat contact, and pressure. Compare your setup with the correct guide rather than switching to a different product's temperature settings.
Lay the carrier back over the affected detail, press it down again, and retry the peel slowly at a low angle. Persistent problems warrant checking the surface and preparation before continuing.
Check the source file and approved artwork before changing the application settings. A low-resolution image or a background included in the file is an artwork issue. Review the artwork at its final print size and confirm which areas should be transparent.
Keep the sample, the remaining transfer, and the order information together. Send us clear photos of the result and your setup. Include what happened during the application, not just a close-up of the finished problem.
Save the setup that worked
Keep this record with the order. When you change the blank, transfer product, or equipment, run a new test instead of assuming the previous setup carries over.
My application record
Caring for the finished item
Wash inside out, use cool water, and use low or cool dryer settings. Follow the garment's own care label as well.
Follow the screen print guide and the garment's own care requirements: inside-out washing, cool water, and low or cool dryer settings.
Follow the approved care instructions for the finished combination of blank and transfer. A blank's original care rating does not automatically validate the decoration, and one durability demonstration does not extend to every finished product.
No heat press? Order the shirts finished.
Choose a finished-apparel order when you need the shirts decorated rather than transfers for your own press. Start with the garment, quantity, artwork, and placement you need.
Need help with an application?
For an apparel transfer, include the press model and peel timing. For UV DTF, include the surface finish and how you prepared it.
