In short
- Cure the powder fully (it must look like an orange-peel gel, not sugar)
- Press 15 s at 150–160 °C, medium pressure
- Peel according to the film type, then re-press 5–10 s with parchment
Starting point
- Temperature 150–160 °C (300–320 °F). Polyester and blends at the low end, heavy cotton at the top.
- Time 12–15 s for the first press, 5–10 s for the second press after peeling.
- Pressure medium — about 3–4 bar on a pneumatic press, or “firm hand, not body weight” on a clamshell.
- Always pre-press the garment 3–5 s to remove moisture and flatten seams.
Hot, warm or cold peel
The film manufacturer decides. Hot peel films release the moment the press opens; cold peel films need 20–40 s and will tear the design if you rush. Warm peel is the forgiving middle. If you do not know, peel one corner after 10 s: if the adhesive stretches like chewing gum, wait longer.
Second press
After peeling, cover with parchment or a Teflon sheet and press 5–10 s. This pushes the adhesive into the fibres, kills the plastic shine and is the single biggest factor in wash durability. For a matte finish use parchment; for a slight sheen use Teflon.
Per fabric
- Cotton: standard settings.
- Polyester sportswear: 140–150 °C, 10–12 s, to avoid dye migration and scorch marks. Test on a hidden area.
- Nylon / softshell: 130–140 °C, light pressure, longer second press; some nylons need a low-temperature film.
- Thick hoodies: raise pressure or use a pressing pillow so the seams do not lift the platen.
