⚠️ WARNING
CONTACT YOUR UV SUPPORT AGENT BEFORE FOLLOWING THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
Your system may require alternate steps. Failure to confirm your specific machine requirements may result in wasted materials and ink.
Note for ColDesi Users: If you have not set up your RIP software for UV DTF printing yet, please contact ColDesi support so they can configure your print queues correctly.
Step-by-Step UV DTF Printing Instructions
Phase 1: Setup and Printing
- Page Setup: Set up your print page size to 11.81” x 16.56”.
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Artwork Layout: Create your artwork by stepping (repeating) designs.
- Leave a 0.5” space between designs horizontally and vertically.
- CRITICAL: Ensure you leave a 0.5” gap at both the top and bottom of the print page.
- Load Film A: Position the A Sheet (Adhesive Sheet) shiny side up on the vacuum bed of the printer. Orient it to match your print layout.
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Secure Film: Activate the vacuum bed to hold the sheet down. Remove the clear plastic liner from the A sheet before printing.
*Alternative: You can tape the A sheet to a metal sheet or directly to the bed using painter's tape. Do not use a sticky/silicone mat.
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RIP Settings: Select to print your design with a White Underbase > Color Layer > Clear Overcoat.
Typical Settings:- White & Color: 1440 x 720 dpi, Unidirectional.
- Clear (Varnish): 1440 x 720 dpi, Bidirectional, printed at 70% density with a small spread (choke).
Phase 2: Lamination
- Prepare for Lamination: Once printed, remove the A sheet from the printer. Attach it to a metal sheet or a sign blank (e.g., a 12” x 18” PVC sign blank) using small pieces of tape.
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Laminate: Feed the board through your laminator with the B Roll Media.
Temp Setting: 190°F / 88°C.
*Tip: Round the corners of your carrier board to prevent jamming.
Phase 3: Application
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Trim & Peel: Cut your transfers individually. Loosen the edge of the B film at a corner. Turn the transfer face down and gently peel the A sheet back from the B film.
*Tip: Pull the A sheet back at a 180° angle (flat against itself) for best results. -
Apply to Substrate: Apply the transfer to your desired surface (glass, metal, plastic, etc.). Work slowly from the center outwards (or one side to the other) to push out air bubbles.
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Remove Film: Once smooth and firmly pressed, gently pull away the B film in a smooth motion (180° angle).
- Cure: Let the transfer set for 24 hours to allow the adhesive to fully bond to the substrate before washing or testing adhesion.
