DTF on polyester: stopping dye migration and scorch marks

Lower the heat

Every 10 °C below 160 halves the migration. 140–150 °C for 10–12 s bonds a low-melt powder perfectly and keeps most dyes asleep. Do not compensate with more time; time is exposure.

Powder and film

• Low-temperature TPU powder (melts ≈ 100–110 °C) lets you press cooler.
• Some films are sold as “anti-migration” — they add a thin barrier layer. Worth it for red, black and neon polyester.
• Cure the powder fully in the oven so you are only re-melting it in the press, not curing it.

The white layer is your blocker

A dense white underbase is what stops dye reaching the colour layer. On polyester set white density to 100 % even on light shirts, keep highlight white at 10 % and never use “less white under dark colours”.

Scorch marks and shine

• The rectangle around the design is heat-pressed polyester: the fibres flattened and went glossy. Lower the temperature, use light pressure and a Teflon sheet, and press with a piece of parchment larger than the platen.
• For sportswear with a textured weave, a pressing pillow under the garment keeps pressure even so no edge gets a shiny frame.