Instructions DTF Installation UV for Object
Discover how to easily apply DTF UV stickers to objects: cleaning, application, pro tips and mistakes to avoid.
1. Clean the surface
Make sure the object is clean, dry and dust-free.
2. Peel off the film
Carefully remove the protective film from the DTF UV sticker.
3. Apply the sticker
Position the transfer on the object and press firmly, either by hand or using a squeegee.
4. Remove the film
After 5 minutes, gently peel off the transparent film. Your sticker will be fully adhered after 24 hours.
5. It's ready!
Your item is personalized with a clean, precise and durable finish.
Preparing your files
To guarantee an impeccable result in DTF UV printing, your files must be carefully prepared according to the specifics of the process.
Here you will find all the essential technical requirements to obtain a clear, precise and faithful rendering of your creation.
🖥️ File formats and compatibility
Here are the file types we accept for DTF UV printing:
- ✅ Accepted format: .png
- ❌ Unsupported formats: .jpg, .cdr, .psd, .tiff
- ✅ Recommended resolution : 400 to 500 DPI
- ✅ Vectorized fonts: all fonts must be vectorized to avoid any alteration during printing
- ❌ Non-compliant: fonts that are not vectorized or embedded (in a .pdf) will not be accepted
- ✅ File naming: use a clear and structured name (e.g., Logo_Brand_Front.png)
- ✅ Spelling: Carefully check all the text in your image
🧼 Print-ready image
Well-prepared visuals ensure a flawless result:
- ✅ Transparent background: delete all temporary background layers, do not use a white background on your artboard (Illustrator)
- ✅ What is printed: only elements visible on a transparent background will be taken into account
🌈 Colors and printing
Color mode is crucial for accurate rendering:
- Required color mode: RGB for .png files
- Screens vs. printing: colors on screen (in RGB) may differ from the final result (in CMYK).
⚙️ Technical specifications of DTF UV
- Application: DTF UV is applied by hand, like a premium sticker, on clean and degreased rigid surfaces (glass, plastic, metal, wood, etc.)
- Cutting: complex shapes and very fine cuts are possible, but must remain consistent with the intended use (resistance to handling)
- Relief/thickness: UV coating creates a slight relief, which should be taken into account for areas of contact or friction
- Alignment: For serialized objects, work with consistent reference points if you are managing the positioning yourself.
- Surface: avoid dusty, granular or highly textured surfaces, adhesion depends directly on this.
- Resistance: DTF UV is resistant, but not indestructible — avoid extreme stresses (aggressive washing, strong solvents, repeated rubbing).
Going further with DTF UV
Your file is ready and you've mastered the application of DTF UV? All that's left is to choose the right product for your project.
FAQ – DTF UV for objects
On what surfaces can I apply DTF UV?
DTF UV adheres very well to most clean and grease-free rigid surfaces:
glass, metal, plastic, acrylic, varnished wood, resin, ceramic, etc.
Avoid highly textured, dusty, greasy or silicone-coated surfaces, which greatly reduce adhesion.
Does DTF UV require a press?
No. DTF UV is applied by hand, like a premium sticker.
A simple press by hand or with a flexible squeegee is sufficient, provided that the surface is clean and dry.
Is DTF UV water and friction resistant?
DTF UV offers very good resistance to water, daily handling and moderate rubbing.
For intensive use (frequent washing, chemicals, permanent outdoor use), prior testing is recommended on your own surfaces.
Can I use DTF UV on mugs or dishes?
Yes, DTF UV is suitable for decorative personalization of mugs, glasses and tableware.
However, it does not replace an industrial print suitable for high-temperature dishwashers.
We recommend gentle hand washing to prolong the life of the marking.
Is DTF UV repositionable?
No. Once applied and smoothed down, DTF UV is not designed to be repositioned.
It is possible to peel off the sticker immediately after a failed application, but the adhesion will be greatly reduced, or even unusable.
How to avoid bubbles during application?
Ensure that the surface is perfectly clean, dry and free of grease.
Apply the sticker gradually, pushing out the air from the center outwards, either by hand or with a flexible squeegee.
Avoid applying it all at once to large surfaces without progressively smoothing it down.
Is there a curing time after applying DTF UV?
The sticker adheres immediately, but final adhesion is optimal after a few hours.
Avoid aggressive rubbing or extreme stress immediately after installation to allow time for the bond to stabilize.
DTF UV compatible media
DTF UV adheres to most clean, rigid surfaces. Here are the most common materials:
- Compatible with: glass, metal, rigid plastic (ABS, PET, PMMA), acrylic, aluminum, ceramic, varnished wood.
- Average compatibility: raw wood (can absorb), slightly textured surfaces.
- Not compatible: silicone surfaces, soft rubber, fabrics, very granular surfaces.
For a detailed list and usage recommendations, see the
full page of material compatibility .
Hundreds of items to personalize with UV DTF technology – Ideal for your communication materials or personal items!
