Answers to common questions about Kolormatrix, DTF transfers, supplies, training, equipment, shipping, and support.
Kolormatrix helps print shops with DTF custom transfers, DTF supplies, screen printing supplies, equipment, training classes, free educational resources, and real production support.
Use this FAQ to find quick answers, or contact our team if you need help with a specific order, product, artwork issue, equipment question, or training option.
DTF Custom Transfers
What makes Kolormatrix DTF transfers different?
Kolormatrix DTF transfers are built for print shops and apparel decorators who care about quality, consistency, and production speed.
Our DTF transfer service focuses on:
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9-color ECG / wide-gamut printing
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Low-temp application
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Instant peel workflow
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Soft feel
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Strong color output
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Standard, Rush, and Hot Rush service options
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Real support from people who understand production
What does 9-color ECG / wide-gamut DTF mean?
9-color ECG, or expanded color gamut, means the print system uses more than a basic CMYK ink set to produce a wider range of colors.
This can help create brighter, more vibrant DTF transfers and improve the ability to reproduce artwork with demanding colors, gradients, and detail.
Artwork quality, RIP setup, white ink, film, powder, curing, and heat press application still matter, but a wider-gamut ink system gives the print process more color capability.
What is instant peel?
Instant peel means the transfer film can be peeled shortly after pressing, without waiting for a full cold peel.
This helps speed up production and makes the application workflow easier for many shops.
Always follow the application instructions provided with your transfer, including temperature, time, pressure, peel method, and post-press recommendations.
What temperature should I use for Kolormatrix DTF transfers?
Kolormatrix DTF transfers are designed for low-temp application, commonly in the 265°F–285°F range depending on the garment, press, and application needs.
Always test when applying to a new garment type, especially polyester, tri-blends, performance wear, stretch fabrics, or specialty garments.
For best results, follow the instructions included with your order.
Read the DTF Heat Press Application Guide
What is the difference between Standard, Rush, and Hot Rush service?
Kolormatrix offers multiple DTF transfer service speeds:
Standard: same to next business day production, depending on workload and order timing.
Rush: 5-hour same-day production when ordered by the Rush cutoff.
Hot Rush: 1–2 hour same-day production when ordered by the Hot Rush cutoff.
Rush and Hot Rush refer to production speed, not shipping time. Shipping transit time begins after the order leaves Kolormatrix.
Does Rush or Hot Rush include shipping time?
No. Rush and Hot Rush refer to how quickly Kolormatrix produces the DTF transfer order.
Shipping time depends on the shipping method selected, carrier transit time, destination, weather, holidays, and other carrier-related factors.
If you need transfers by a specific date, contact us before ordering so we can help you choose the best production and shipping option.
Do I need to pre-press garments before applying DTF transfers?
Yes, pre-pressing is recommended for most garments.
Pre-pressing helps:
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Remove moisture
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Flatten wrinkles
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Smooth fibers
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Improve surface contact
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Improve transfer placement
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Reduce application problems
Read Why Pre-Pressing Garments Before DTF Transfers Matters
Do I need to post-press DTF transfers?
Yes, post-pressing is recommended for many DTF applications.
Post-pressing helps improve:
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Feel
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Edge bonding
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Adhesion
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Finish
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Durability
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Professional appearance
A strong DTF heat press workflow is:
Pre-press. Position. Press. Peel. Post-press. Inspect.
Read Why Post-Pressing DTF Transfers Matters
What artwork files work best for DTF transfers?
The best DTF artwork is clean, high-resolution, sized correctly, and has a true transparent background when needed.
Good files usually include:
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PNG with true transparency
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SVG
File type alone does not guarantee print quality. A PNG can still be low resolution or have a fake transparent background.
Before submitting artwork, check:
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Final print size
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Resolution
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Transparent background
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Clean edges
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Readable text
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Line thickness
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Customer approval
Read the DTF Artwork Preparation Guide
What is a fake transparent checkerboard background?
Some artwork appears to have a checkerboard background, but the checkerboard is actually part of the image.
A true transparent PNG should have no background pixels where the background should be removed.
If the checkerboard is part of the actual file, it may print.
Always check artwork on a light, dark, and colored background before printing or ordering transfers.
How small can text or lines be for DTF printing?
DTF can print small detail, but there is a difference between technically printable and production-friendly.
As a general guide:
Small text:
Minimum/risky: 0.10"–0.12" tall / about 7–9 pt
Production-safe: 0.15"–0.20" tall / about 11–14 pt
Thin lines:
Minimum/risky: 0.02"–0.03" / about 1.5–2 pt
Production-safe: 0.04"–0.06" / about 3–4.5 pt
If the detail is important, do not design it at the minimum. Design it at the production-safe size.
Read How Small Is Too Small for DTF Printing?
DTF Supplies
Are all DTF supplies the same?
No. DTF film, ink, white ink, powder, and cleaning supplies can vary greatly in quality and performance.
Differences in coatings, pigment quality, powder particle size, cleaning chemistry, storage, and compatibility can affect:
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Print quality
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Adhesion
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Feel
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Cure
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Color output
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Wash durability
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Printer maintenance
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Production consistency
Read Why All DTF Supplies Are Not the Same
Are all DTF films the same?
No. DTF film is more than a clear carrier sheet.
Film quality can depend on:
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Film thickness
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Coating layers
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Ink receptive coating
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Release coating
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Surface treatment
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Peel behavior
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Heat stability
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Storage conditions
Better film can help improve ink control, detail, powder behavior, release consistency, and production reliability.
Read Why DTF Film Quality Matters
What is low-melt DTF powder?
Low-melt DTF powder is adhesive powder designed to activate at lower temperatures than some standard powders.
Low-melt systems are useful for heat-sensitive garments such as:
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100% polyester
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Performance wear
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Tri-blends
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Athletic apparel
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Premium retail garments
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Moisture-wicking fabrics
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Specialty fabrics
Low-melt DTF can help reduce the risk of scorching, heat marks, dye migration, and garment damage when used correctly.
Read Why Low-Melt DTF Transfers Are the Smart Choice for Performance Wear & Specialty Fabrics
When should I use low-temp DTF transfers?
Low-temp DTF transfers are a smart choice when applying to garments that may be sensitive to heat.
Examples include:
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Polyester
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Tri-blends
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Performance shirts
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Athletic jerseys
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Stretch fabrics
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Premium garments
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Specialty fabrics
Lower application temperatures can help protect expensive or heat-sensitive garments while still producing durable results when the transfer system is designed for low-temp application.
Why does DTF powder particle size matter?
Powder particle size affects coverage, adhesion, detail, melt behavior, feel, and durability.
Smaller particles can help with fine detail and softer feel. Larger particles can help with coverage and adhesive strength. Professional powders may use a blend of particle sizes to balance detail, coverage, softness, and durability.
Powder must also be stored properly to avoid moisture, clumping, contamination, and inconsistent application.
How should I store DTF film, powder, and ink?
DTF supplies should be stored clean, dry, sealed, and protected from contamination.
General storage tips:
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Keep powder sealed when not in use
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Protect film from dust, moisture, and sunlight
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Store ink according to manufacturer recommendations
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Avoid temperature swings
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Keep supplies away from open powder contamination
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Keep production surfaces clean
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Do not use contaminated cleaning tools
Poor storage can create powder clumps, static issues, film problems, ink problems, and inconsistent production.
Why is white ink so important in DTF printing?
White ink supports opacity, color brightness, garment coverage, powder adhesion, transfer feel, and durability.
Weak or inconsistent white ink can cause:
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Dull colors
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Poor opacity
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Banding
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Weak transfers
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Uneven coverage
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Maintenance problems
White ink requires good RIP settings, circulation, nozzle health, and maintenance habits.
Read the DTF Printer Maintenance Guide
DTF Equipment & Showroom
Do you sell DTF equipment?
Yes. Kolormatrix supports printers with DTF equipment options, including DTF printers, shaker/dryer systems, air filtration, heat presses, and shop packages.
We also help customers understand the workflow, not just the machine.
Do you have a DTF equipment showroom?
Yes. Kolormatrix has a DTF equipment showroom in Atlanta where customers can see equipment, ask questions, and better understand DTF production.
If you are planning to visit for equipment help, please contact us first so we can make sure the right team member is available.
Can I get help choosing DTF equipment?
Yes. Contact Kolormatrix if you need help deciding which equipment fits your shop, production goals, space, budget, and support needs.
It helps to know:
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What you currently print
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Expected production volume
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Available space
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Garment types
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Whether you need training
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Whether you need supplies and workflow guidance
Training & Free Resources
Is the DTF Like a Pro manual really free?
Yes. The digital PDF version of the DTF Like a Pro Production Training Manual is available as a free download.
The manual helps printers understand the DTF workflow from artwork setup to finished transfer application.
Download Free DTF Like a Pro Manual
Do you offer a printed copy of the DTF Like a Pro manual?
Yes. Kolormatrix offers a printed copy for customers who want a physical shop reference for their production area, training table, or classroom.
The free PDF is available for download, and the printed copy is available for purchase.
Order Printed DTF Like a Pro Manual
What is included in the Free DTF Production Checklists?
The Free DTF Production Checklists PDF Booklet includes practical checklists for:
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Artwork Preflight
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RIP & Job Setup
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Powder & Cure
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Heat Press Application
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Maintenance / Logs
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Production Monitoring
These checklists are designed for use near your printer, RIP station, shaker/dryer, heat press, or production area.
Download Free DTF Production Checklists
Can I use the free manual or checklists to train my team?
You may download and print the free manual and checklists for personal or internal shop use.
They may not be copied, resold, rebranded, reproduced commercially, used as paid training material, or redistributed as your own content without written permission from Kolormatrix.
What training classes does Kolormatrix offer?
Kolormatrix offers multiple training options, including:
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DTF Like a Pro hands-on training
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3 Day Professional Screen Printing Class
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VIP private training
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On-site training
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Shop tune-up style training
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Training manuals and guides
What is DTF Like a Pro training?
DTF Like a Pro is Kolormatrix’s hands-on DTF training designed to help printers understand the full DTF workflow.
Topics may include:
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Artwork preparation
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RIP workflow
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DTF Station Pilot
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Printer operation
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Powder application
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Curing
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Heat press application
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Troubleshooting
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Maintenance
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Production workflow
Do you offer screen printing training?
Yes. Kolormatrix offers screen printing training, including the 3 Day Professional Screen Printing Class and other training options.
Our screen printing training focuses on real production education, process control, workflow, print quality, and practical shop skills.
Shipping, Pickup & Orders
Where does Kolormatrix ship from?
Kolormatrix ships from Atlanta, Georgia.
Shipping time depends on carrier transit time, shipping method, destination, holidays, weather, and order processing time.
How long does UPS Ground usually take from Kolormatrix?
UPS Ground transit times vary by destination. A UPS transit map can help estimate typical delivery time from Kolormatrix in Atlanta, Georgia.
Transit times are estimates and not guarantees. Delivery may vary due to weather, holidays, carrier delays, service disruptions, destination, and order processing time.
Does shipping time include production time?
No. Production time and shipping time are different.
For custom DTF transfers, Standard, Rush, and Hot Rush refer to production speed.
Shipping time begins after the order has been completed, packed, and picked up by the carrier.
Do you offer local pickup?
Yes. Local pickup may be available for eligible orders.
Pickup availability depends on the product or service, order timing, production status, and business hours.
If you need an order by a specific time, contact us before ordering.
How do I check the status of my order?
Use the tracking information provided with your order, or contact Kolormatrix with your order number.
For faster help, include:
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Order number
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Name on the order
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Product or service ordered
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Any deadline or concern
Screen Printing & Heat Transfer Supplies
Do you sell screen printing supplies?
Yes. Kolormatrix offers screen printing supplies, inks, screens, emulsions, adhesives, chemicals, equipment, and related production products.
Do you sell heat transfer vinyl and heat press supplies?
Yes. Kolormatrix offers heat transfer products, heat press supplies, and related apparel decoration materials.
Can Kolormatrix help me choose the right screen printing product?
Yes. Contact us if you need help choosing inks, screens, emulsions, adhesives, chemicals, or equipment.
Helpful details include:
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Garment type
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Ink type
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Mesh count
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Artwork style
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Press setup
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Production issue
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Cure method
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Desired result
Troubleshooting & Support
Why is my DTF transfer peeling?
Peeling can come from several areas of the process.
Check:
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Powder coverage
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Cure quality
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Press temperature
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Press time
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Pressure
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Pre-press
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Peel method
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Post-press
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Garment compatibility
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Moisture in garment
Read the DTF Troubleshooting Guide
Why is my DTF print banding?
Banding may be caused by:
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Missing nozzles
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Ink flow issues
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White ink issues
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Media feed calibration
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Head calibration
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Bi-directional calibration
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RIP print mode
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Film feed
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Maintenance problems
Read the DTF Station Pilot Software Guide
Read the DTF Printer Maintenance Guide
Why is powder sticking where it should not?
Powder sticking in unwanted areas can come from:
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Fake transparent background
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Unwanted pixels
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Static
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Humidity
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Film condition
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Excess powder removal
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Ink misting
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Dirty film or work area
Read the DTF Troubleshooting Guide
What information should I provide when asking for troubleshooting help?
For faster support, include:
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Order number, if applicable
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Printer model
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Supplies being used
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Artwork file or screenshot
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Photo or video of the problem
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Heat press settings
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Garment type
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Cure settings
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What changed recently
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What troubleshooting steps were already tried
The more detail you provide, the easier it is for us to help.
Returns & Product Issues
What should I do if my product was damaged in shipping?
Contact Kolormatrix as soon as possible.
Please include:
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Order number
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Photos of the damaged product
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Photos of the shipping box
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Description of the issue
This helps us work through the issue quickly.
Can I return a product?
Kolormatrix offers a limited return policy. Some items may not be returnable, including custom products, used products, equipment, printers, software, artwork, custom services, and other restricted categories.
Please contact us before returning any product.
Still Need Help?
Kolormatrix is here to help printers move forward.
Contact us for help with DTF transfers, DTF supplies, screen printing supplies, equipment, training, shipping, orders, or troubleshooting.
Phone: 404-691-0015
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM EST
Website: kolormatrix.com
Address: 4345 Commerce Dr SW, Ste A, Atlanta GA 30336