So you’ve mastered DTF transfers on t-shirts—but what about thicker materials like hoodies and sweatshirts? These cozy staples can feel intimidating when using a heat press because of their seams, hoods, and pockets. The good news? With the right approach, you can achieve professional-quality, long-lasting designs on your favorite warm layers.

My go-to picks? The Shirt-Envy Gildan G185 Heavy Blend™ Hoodie and Gildan G180 Heavy Blend™ Crewneck Sweatshirt. Both are crafted from a soft 50/50 cotton-poly blend—making them the perfect surface for flawless DTF transfers.

How to Press DTF on Hoodies & Sweatshirts

It’s still a hot peel process, but with a few small adjustments, you’ll lock in a clean, durable finish:

1. Pre-Press is Essential
   Press your blank garment for 3–5 seconds before applying the transfer. This removes moisture and wrinkles, ensuring the adhesive bonds properly.
2. Use a Pressing Pillow
   To deal with seams, zippers, or pocket edges, place a pressing pillow inside. This guarantees even pressure across the surface.
3. The Press
   Position your transfer, set the press to 320°F (160°C), and press firmly for 15 seconds.
4. Hot Peel
   Peel away the film immediately while it’s still hot to reveal your design.
5. Final Press
   For maximum durability, cover the design with parchment paper or a Teflon sheet and press again for 5–10 seconds.

Why Shirt-Envy?

The Shirt-Envy DTF system makes thick garments easy. Their transfers are engineered to bond beautifully with cotton-poly blends, holding up over 50+ washes when properly applied.

Plus, you can order by size—or grab a Custom DTF Gang Sheet to press multiple designs at once.

Call to Action

Ready to take your designs beyond t-shirts? Explore the full range of Shirt-Envy DTF Transfers, and pair them with a Gildan G185 Hoodie or G180 Crewneck Sweatshirt for your next custom project.