Heat Transfer: Customization Without Minimums
Heat transfer printing offers unlimited colors, no setup fees, and runs as small as one piece. The complete guide.
Heat transfer (also called DTF — Direct to Film) is one of the most versatile decoration methods available today.
How It Works
1. **Print** — Your design is printed onto a special transfer film (reverse image)
2. **Apply adhesive** — A hot-melt adhesive powder is applied to the printed film
3. **Cure** — The powder is melted to activate the adhesive
4. **Press** — The film is placed on the garment and pressed with heat (typically 300-320°F for 15-20 seconds)
5. **Peel** — The film is removed, leaving the design bonded to the fabric
Best Applications
- Small runs (1-100 pieces)
- Full-color designs with gradients
- Photographic images
- Multi-color logos
- Garments with tags, buttons, or zippers (where screens can't reach)
DTF vs Traditional Heat Press
| Feature | DTF (Modern) | Traditional Vinyl |
|--------|-------------|-------------------|
| Colors | Unlimited | Limited per layer |
| Detail | Photo-quality | Block colors only |
| Stretch | Excellent | May crack |
| Minimum order | 1 piece | 1 piece |
| Cost for 1-10 pcs | $5-10/pc | $5-15/pc |
DTF heat transfer is available on all BOAZ blank garments. No minimums for sample runs.
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