DTF Plus Tips & Tricks

DTF can be a game-changer, when you’ve got the right know-how. At Machines Plus, we’re here to offer more than just great products. We’re here to offer support you can’t find in a manual (or on YouTube).

Here are a few expert-backed tips to help you level up your DTF Plus game:

Humidity and temperature can throw off your entire workflow. A simple temperature and humidity gauge in your space can help you stay in control and consistent.

To keep things running smoothly:

• Keep the room between 20°C – 26°C
• Keep humidity between 40% – 60% (and no condensation)
• Use a temp & humidity gauge
• Maintain this 24/7, not just when you’re printing.

If you feel comfortable in the room, chances are your printer does too.

DTF films are highly sensitive to environmental conditions, even before you print. Here's how to store them right:

• Store unopened film in its original packaging and only open it when you’re ready to load.
• Keep unused sheets in resealed packaging when not in use.
• Lower humidity is better – moisture can ruin film quality and lead to smudging or poor powder adhesion.
• Don’t mix sheets between batches—even within the same batch, colour output may vary slightly. You may need to switch from "Auto" to Manual Adjustment to compensate.

Always wear PPE when applying DTF powder. And remember, apply powder at least 5m away from your printer to protect the printers internals.

If you’re scaling up or juggling growing client demands, manual powdering won't cut it forever. Here's a breakdown based on 100 sheets (approx. 20 sq/m):

• SC-F1060 → ~6.6 hrs
• SC-F2160 → ~5 hrs
• SC-F2260 → ~4 hrs
• SC-F3000 → ~1 hr

Feeling maxed out? It might be time to consider roll printing:

• Epson SC-G6060 (printing only) → 76 sq/m roll in ~4.5 hrs
• Roland TY-300 + Shaker Oven → Same roll, printed and cured in 4.5 hrs

Not bad, right?

Troubleshooting Tips That Actually Work

Issue: Image isn’t sticking to the garment
Likely Cause: Not enough pressure. Repress with increased pressure for best results.

Issue: Image is melting or getting glossy
Likely Cause: Pressing too hot or too long. Dial it back to 140°C for 10 seconds, medium pressure.

Issue: Yesterday’s settings aren’t working today
Likely Cause: Environmental change. Yep, even overnight fluctuations affect print results. Re-check your temp & humidity.

Different fabrics = different results. Don’t wait until a job is due to realise your settings need tweaking. Test transfers across your blank stock so you’re always ready to go.

Need more help? Check out our DTF Plus user Guide.
Got questions about DTF Plus, scaling up, or why your black tees look dusty?

Book time with our team, we’re here for the stuff Google can’t answer.

Machines Plus – Your DTF Support Crew
Not just suppliers. We're your print partners.