Written By: Zach Dewhurst
(May 3, 2024)
Read Time: 7 Minutes
Neck labels on clothes play an important role in branding since they provide a good location for displaying your logo or company name. Moving beyond typical tag printing, Direct to Film (DTF) transfers offer a smooth, comfortable, and long-lasting option for bespoke neck labels. This novel technology enables full-color, high-resolution branding directly on the fabric, increasing the professionalism and personalized feel of your apparel line. Follow this step-by-step instruction from PrintPhase to discover how to add personalized neck labels to your garments with DTF transfers, ensuring your brand stands out in every detail.
The success of applying a custom neck label with DTF transfers begins with preparation, from selecting the right garment to creating a design that resonates with your brand.
- Choose DTF transfer-compatible fabrics like cotton, polyester, or mixes to ensure the label's optimum adhesion and longevity.
- Make sure the inside neck area of the garment is smooth and free of any seams or tags that may interfere with the transfer process.
- Be concise: Neck labels usually include the brand logo, size, and fabric composition. Ensure that your design is clear and readable on a small size.
- Consider these dimensions: A basic neck label is 2 to 3 inches broad, depending on the garment's size and available space.
The creation of your DTF transfer is a critical step in the process, involving printing your design and preparing it for application.
1. Print the Design: Use a DTF printer to print your neck label design onto the unique DTF film. Aim for high-resolution printing to capture all of the nuances of your design.
2. Apply the Adhesive Powder: Sprinkle the adhesive powder evenly over the printed pattern, tap off any excess, and heat cure for the prescribed time, usually about 2 minutes at 210°C (410°F).
Applying your unique neck label using a DTF transfer is simple, but it takes attention to precision to create a perfect finish.
- Turn the garment inside out to expose the neckline.
- Place the garment on a flat surface or a suitable platen in your heat press, making that the area where the label will be affixed is smooth and equally spaced.
- Place the DTF transfer where you want the neck label to be. A typical placement is central, right below the neck seam.
- Press the neck area for a few seconds to remove any moisture and wrinkles, resulting in a clean application surface.
- Set your heat press to the required temperature for DTF transfers, typically 160°C (320°F) for 15 to 20 seconds.
- Place the transfer film (design side down) on the desired area and apply medium to high pressure.
- Peel the film according to the manufacturer's recommendations, depending on whether you're using a hot, warm, or cold DTF transfer.
To ensure the longevity of your personalized neck label, both the producer and the end user must care for the garment properly.
- Let the print cure for at least 24 hours before the first wash.
- To maintain the integrity of the neck label, wash the garment inside out in cold water and tumble dry on low heat.
- Avoid ironing directly on the label. Apply a protective layer or iron around the region.
Custom neck labels are more than simply a branding opportunity; they represent quality and attention to detail. Using DTF transfers for neck labels not only improves the appearance of your garments, but it also reinforces brand identity in each piece you manufacture. PrintPhase's goal with this guide is to provide you with the knowledge and procedures you need to apply high-quality, long-lasting neck labels to your apparel, ensuring it stands out in both style and professionalism.
Mastering the use of DTF transfers for custom neck labels is a vital step toward differentiating your brand in the competitive world of personalized clothes. If you have any issues or need any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. Let us make your brand unforgettable, one label at a time.
