Really appreciate your interest in seeing the durability, thanks for letting us know... we'll let you know that the wash testing has begun! After the first cycle things are looking pristine!
This was such a useful video, I was hesitant about continuing to use DTF transfers because I didn't love how glossy the prints were especially when using colors with a lot of contrast. I think I'm definitely going to try these out to make them have more of a screen print look. I'd love to see the wash tests!
The right DTF makes all of the difference, we've found some of the lower-priced DTF transfers out there look quite glossy- But these tests sure do change some of that. The UltraColor Max DTF we were using here is a great base to start!
That's awesome to hear Derrick! It really does leave a nice texture that looks almost identical to a screen printing screen. The Canvas texture really surprised us in this test too! Are you post pressing every project?
Wash tests for sure! Wish the paper didn't crinkle up after 3-4 presses and transfer to the design. Love the texture of the flexible pad but slightly more gloss than I like. Does the canvas ever create wrinkles or worry of print transferring to it? That looks like the best option to me if it can be used for 100+ garments without needing replaced.
The canvas does not create wrinkles in our experience as long as it’s laid flat over the print. If the fabric ever does wrinkle from being folded it can be “ironed out” by just pressing it by itself with the heat press. The wrinkles in the paper are definitely a bummer, but easy and inexpensive to replace. Also, Wash testing is complete with a video coming very soon!
I've been using something like the canvas, actually a tote bag split in half and has been a game changer last few prints. Going to try the grip tape, loved the look. I'm just concerned about the size. Most grip tapes are 9" wide so you'd need to almost double it up for the width. I wonder if the seam where they meet will cause an issue.. Just ordered and will find out soon..
The canvas or T-Shirt fabrics are definitely popular, and seeing these results we totally understand why! As for the sizing of grip tape- Easily purchasable Skateboard grip tape is sized for boards, however we did see a few variations available up to 24" wide rolls. The seam would likely transfer to the image, but the texture may hide it... please let us know how it turns out!
What DTF are you using Nick? Our UltraColor Max DTF washes and wears great- Independently tested to 50+ wash cycles. We're currently on wash #3 here on these samples with no issues.
🤣 Dave is still a screen printer at heart too, don't let him get too close to a squeegee... DTF is an amazing tool in the apparel decorator toolbox for sure!
That's a great question, and honestly it depends on which exact grip tape you use. Some we've tried are perfectly fine out of the box, others the glue leaks out of the liner when pressed- creating quite a mess on the heating element. The best practice is to use some inexpensive poster board and stick the grip tape to it. While the thicker layer blocks heat, on the post-press it works fine. For longevity, some grip tapes also wrinkle with extended use, so the stable surface of the poster board keeps it nice and flat, press after press
We've used a similar coversheet to the tseal with a slight texture and coating- In previous attempts at using it the texture is similar to the craft paper we used in this video with results or changes to the fabric very hard to see on camera. Wash testing is now underway, stay tuned for the update.
Quality DTF heat transfers are the best way to avoid the plastic or “paper-like”feel and designing for the process will drastically improve the result of any printed apparel, not just DTF. This video might be exactly what you’re looking for with tips to improve your results with DTF: th-cam.com/video/NkL4md46FtE/w-d-xo.html
Great question! And yes, for this experiment we did press it to the same settings, 15 seconds at 290 degrees, medium pressure 👍 wash test video coming next week
Even better question! These can be repressed immediately or completed later, while the coversheets block a decent amount of heat, the print is still hot after the second press, so there shouldn't be a difference in the printed result.
Hallo Alex! UltraColor™ MAX is available in two sizes: 56 x 50 cm and 56 x 100 cm in Germany: transfer.stahlseurope.de/page/transfers/ultracolor-max-transfer Here in the states, our max size is 24 x 22"
Great Question Scott- We haven't found that limit yet- With the tests that we've done and some of our office staff trying it, we're likely at 30-40 presses with it so far with no wear showing. I would image if it creases it may start to show some of the texture in the print.
We do not, for the best quality DTF transfers we have dedicated DTF printers. They often say "A jack of all trades is a master of none", we've specialized in high quality heat transfers for over 30 years. We help apparel decorators grow their business and succeed by offering custom transfers on demand, without any huge upfront investments. Before investing in a DTF Machine yourself, there's a few things to look at: 1. Cost vs Quality & Efficiency: Low cost DTF printers do not have powder shakers and in-line dryers, leading to inconsistencies in print quality or a paper-like feel on the garment, not to mention the additional steps needed to coat and cure the adhesives on the printer- So, while in supply cost alone it may only look like 3-4 cents per square inch, your time and cost required to complete a transfer easily doubles to more than what you can buy the highest quality transfers for, all without any of the financial risk upfront or time to babysit your printer. 2. Environmental concerns: Banding and print head clogs are common with any digital printing with white ink- Climate control (both temperature and relative humidity) is paramount for quality printing and low maintenance. With curing adhesives under heat, chemicals can evaporate into the air, so in addition to humidifiers and hygrometers you will also need adequate venting and exhaust for health safety. Another concern is hand-coating the powder adhesive- Shaking the fine powder in enclosed or non-ventilated spaces increases the chance of inhaling what is essentially powdered glue- You don't want to breathe that. 3. Turnaround Time: Our DTF ships as quick as the same day when produced before production cutoff, so if you aren't in need of same day turnaround time, there is not a need to invest into expensive equipment to bring printers in-house. The average turnaround time for the decorated apparel industry from order to delivery of printed t-shirts to the customer is 7-10 days. 4. Maintenance: Anyone running DTF or DTG printers will tell you: "It's not IF, it's WHEN it will break" So coupled with the cost of maintenance, overseas technical support and backorders on print heads or replacement parts, printing yourself can be a headache- And if you need printer is not printing, it's a very expensive paperweight. 5. Inconsistent Supply Chains: We have lab testing at our DTF printing facilities nationwide- Ensuring all supplies like inks, adhesives and films are the same quality, as even a slight change in pigment density in inks can halt production or print low quality transfers. As most supplies are imported from overseas, shipping delays are frequent. 6. Technology Advancements: In just the past 3 years that DTF printers have been on the market, there a new models, innovations and technology hitting the market every couple months or so. Your investment today may be outdated in just a few months, leaving you behind with inferior quality or unsupported machinery. Don't take it from us though, you can order samples for free and compare to any other DTF on the market: www.transferexpress.com/marketing-tools/free-samples It's also a good idea to research any DTF printing groups on facebook and you'll see many of these issues above discussed daily.
See the full Wash Test Results Here: th-cam.com/video/TxeAp-HHVss/w-d-xo.html
Definitely would love to see a print after several washes! Thanks for the great video!
Really appreciate your interest in seeing the durability, thanks for letting us know... we'll let you know that the wash testing has begun! After the first cycle things are looking pristine!
Wash test & Results: th-cam.com/video/TxeAp-HHVss/w-d-xo.html
A wash test will be greatly appreciated. Thanks for this vid!
The wash test is underway and preliminary results are looking great, stay tuned Allan!
Check it out, Full wash test & Results: th-cam.com/video/TxeAp-HHVss/w-d-xo.html
Definitely want to see the wash test.
Thanks for letting us know, wash testing has begun! After the first cycle things are unchanged and washing great!
Wash test & Results: th-cam.com/video/TxeAp-HHVss/w-d-xo.html
I really like the skateboard grip tape look and wondering if it last.
We're definitely going to test it now, it really adds an incredible texture to the print.
This was such a useful video, I was hesitant about continuing to use DTF transfers because I didn't love how glossy the prints were especially when using colors with a lot of contrast. I think I'm definitely going to try these out to make them have more of a screen print look. I'd love to see the wash tests!
The right DTF makes all of the difference, we've found some of the lower-priced DTF transfers out there look quite glossy- But these tests sure do change some of that. The UltraColor Max DTF we were using here is a great base to start!
Wash test!! I use an oven sheet, I have tried different materials and textures over the years silicone and Teflon
Here's the wash test & full results in this new video: th-cam.com/video/TxeAp-HHVss/w-d-xo.html
Yes, definitely a wash test. Please 😊
Thanks for letting us know- Wash tests are underway, stay tuned :)
Wash test & Results: th-cam.com/video/TxeAp-HHVss/w-d-xo.html
Yes! I’d love to see how these wash up.
Wash test incoming Rhona! As a sneak peek- the first few cycles look awesome
Wash test & Results: th-cam.com/video/TxeAp-HHVss/w-d-xo.html
@@transferexpress thank you!!!
Wash n show results yes please im definitely considering the scateboard method..
Check out the wash testing results here: DTF Wash Test Results: Do Coversheets Make A Difference?
th-cam.com/video/TxeAp-HHVss/w-d-xo.html
The flexible app pad is my go to of choice.
That's awesome to hear Derrick! It really does leave a nice texture that looks almost identical to a screen printing screen. The Canvas texture really surprised us in this test too!
Are you post pressing every project?
Would love to see wash testing
Stay tuned, Video coming out tomorrow!
th-cam.com/video/TxeAp-HHVss/w-d-xo.html
Would love to see if it has durability
Wash testing inbound!
Here's the wash testing results to check out how durable it ended up being: th-cam.com/video/TxeAp-HHVss/w-d-xo.html
Wash tests for sure!
Wish the paper didn't crinkle up after 3-4 presses and transfer to the design. Love the texture of the flexible pad but slightly more gloss than I like.
Does the canvas ever create wrinkles or worry of print transferring to it? That looks like the best option to me if it can be used for 100+ garments without needing replaced.
The canvas does not create wrinkles in our experience as long as it’s laid flat over the print. If the fabric ever does wrinkle from being folded it can be “ironed out” by just pressing it by itself with the heat press. The wrinkles in the paper are definitely a bummer, but easy and inexpensive to replace.
Also, Wash testing is complete with a video coming very soon!
New wash testing results video: th-cam.com/video/TxeAp-HHVss/w-d-xo.html
How long was the 2nd press with the different applications shown?
I've been using something like the canvas, actually a tote bag split in half and has been a game changer last few prints. Going to try the grip tape, loved the look. I'm just concerned about the size. Most grip tapes are 9" wide so you'd need to almost double it up for the width. I wonder if the seam where they meet will cause an issue.. Just ordered and will find out soon..
The canvas or T-Shirt fabrics are definitely popular, and seeing these results we totally understand why! As for the sizing of grip tape- Easily purchasable Skateboard grip tape is sized for boards, however we did see a few variations available up to 24" wide rolls. The seam would likely transfer to the image, but the texture may hide it... please let us know how it turns out!
@@transferexpress If you don't mind me asking, where have you found grip
tape that size? I can't find anything close to that. Do you have a link?
Yes please I want to see a wash test
We got you covered, The wash testing video just released! th-cam.com/video/TxeAp-HHVss/w-d-xo.html
would deff like to see the print after a couple of washes
Thanks Stefan, Wash testing incoming!
It’s dtf man, there will be no print after a couple washes 😂
What DTF are you using Nick? Our UltraColor Max DTF washes and wears great- Independently tested to 50+ wash cycles. We're currently on wash #3 here on these samples with no issues.
@ I was just being a wise guy because I’m a screen printer and don’t like DTF, you’re products are top notch please don’t mind me 🙌🏻
🤣 Dave is still a screen printer at heart too, don't let him get too close to a squeegee... DTF is an amazing tool in the apparel decorator toolbox for sure!
When using the skateboard grip tape/paper, does the glue inhibit the process? Does is become active or melt or damage the heat press at all?
That's a great question, and honestly it depends on which exact grip tape you use. Some we've tried are perfectly fine out of the box, others the glue leaks out of the liner when pressed- creating quite a mess on the heating element. The best practice is to use some inexpensive poster board and stick the grip tape to it. While the thicker layer blocks heat, on the post-press it works fine. For longevity, some grip tapes also wrinkle with extended use, so the stable surface of the poster board keeps it nice and flat, press after press
@@transferexpress Thank you for your rapid response. I'll try a few sheets and report back on my results.
Absolutely! We're always happy to help out- Let us know how it turns out for you.
Would love to see wash test. What about TSeal?
We've used a similar coversheet to the tseal with a slight texture and coating- In previous attempts at using it the texture is similar to the craft paper we used in this video with results or changes to the fabric very hard to see on camera. Wash testing is now underway, stay tuned for the update.
Here's the wash testing video: th-cam.com/video/TxeAp-HHVss/w-d-xo.html
What can cause a small bump under a DTF transfer on a shirt? Also, how can you make the transfer feel less like plastic?
Quality DTF heat transfers are the best way to avoid the plastic or “paper-like”feel and designing for the process will drastically improve the result of any printed apparel, not just DTF.
This video might be exactly what you’re looking for with tips to improve your results with DTF: th-cam.com/video/NkL4md46FtE/w-d-xo.html
@transferexpress
how long do you do the additional press for the grit tape, canvas, silicon, etc? same temp/pressure as UCM?
Great question! And yes, for this experiment we did press it to the same settings, 15 seconds at 290 degrees, medium pressure 👍 wash test video coming next week
@@transferexpress does the 2nd press need to be done immediately (while still "hot"), or can it be done at a later time?
Even better question! These can be repressed immediately or completed later, while the coversheets block a decent amount of heat, the print is still hot after the second press, so there shouldn't be a difference in the printed result.
Where do we get the skateboard grip tape?
We just picked this one up from Amazon and cut down to size.
@@transferexpress thanks.... What am I looking for on amazon, skateboard grip tape??
a.co/d/aQlnhn5 This is the exact one we purchased at 11" wide
@@transferexpress thanks
What are the biggest Size Transfers ? Din A2 ? because we need big backprints vor Oversize Fits ! Greetz from Germany. Alex
Hallo Alex! UltraColor™ MAX is available in two sizes: 56 x 50 cm and 56 x 100 cm in Germany: transfer.stahlseurope.de/page/transfers/ultracolor-max-transfer
Here in the states, our max size is 24 x 22"
Wash test, please!
The wash tests has begun! Keep and eye out on the channel here for the updates coming soon!
Ask and we'll deliver! Wash test results: th-cam.com/video/TxeAp-HHVss/w-d-xo.html
How many times can you use the skateboard tape?
Great Question Scott- We haven't found that limit yet- With the tests that we've done and some of our office staff trying it, we're likely at 30-40 presses with it so far with no wear showing.
I would image if it creases it may start to show some of the texture in the print.
I saw a machine that combines DTF and DTG. Do you have it?
We do not, for the best quality DTF transfers we have dedicated DTF printers. They often say "A jack of all trades is a master of none", we've specialized in high quality heat transfers for over 30 years. We help apparel decorators grow their business and succeed by offering custom transfers on demand, without any huge upfront investments. Before investing in a DTF Machine yourself, there's a few things to look at:
1. Cost vs Quality & Efficiency: Low cost DTF printers do not have powder shakers and in-line dryers, leading to inconsistencies in print quality or a paper-like feel on the garment, not to mention the additional steps needed to coat and cure the adhesives on the printer- So, while in supply cost alone it may only look like 3-4 cents per square inch, your time and cost required to complete a transfer easily doubles to more than what you can buy the highest quality transfers for, all without any of the financial risk upfront or time to babysit your printer.
2. Environmental concerns: Banding and print head clogs are common with any digital printing with white ink- Climate control (both temperature and relative humidity) is paramount for quality printing and low maintenance. With curing adhesives under heat, chemicals can evaporate into the air, so in addition to humidifiers and hygrometers you will also need adequate venting and exhaust for health safety. Another concern is hand-coating the powder adhesive- Shaking the fine powder in enclosed or non-ventilated spaces increases the chance of inhaling what is essentially powdered glue- You don't want to breathe that.
3. Turnaround Time: Our DTF ships as quick as the same day when produced before production cutoff, so if you aren't in need of same day turnaround time, there is not a need to invest into expensive equipment to bring printers in-house. The average turnaround time for the decorated apparel industry from order to delivery of printed t-shirts to the customer is 7-10 days.
4. Maintenance: Anyone running DTF or DTG printers will tell you: "It's not IF, it's WHEN it will break" So coupled with the cost of maintenance, overseas technical support and backorders on print heads or replacement parts, printing yourself can be a headache- And if you need printer is not printing, it's a very expensive paperweight.
5. Inconsistent Supply Chains: We have lab testing at our DTF printing facilities nationwide- Ensuring all supplies like inks, adhesives and films are the same quality, as even a slight change in pigment density in inks can halt production or print low quality transfers. As most supplies are imported from overseas, shipping delays are frequent.
6. Technology Advancements: In just the past 3 years that DTF printers have been on the market, there a new models, innovations and technology hitting the market every couple months or so. Your investment today may be outdated in just a few months, leaving you behind with inferior quality or unsupported machinery.
Don't take it from us though, you can order samples for free and compare to any other DTF on the market: www.transferexpress.com/marketing-tools/free-samples
It's also a good idea to research any DTF printing groups on facebook and you'll see many of these issues above discussed daily.
Wash test
Wash testing has begun! Preliminary results are looking great.
Full wash test results just published today: th-cam.com/video/TxeAp-HHVss/w-d-xo.html
wash test
Wash test incoming Rene!
The wash testing is here! th-cam.com/video/TxeAp-HHVss/w-d-xo.html
The skateboard griptape makes it look like DTG, not really a fan of it