Creating eye-catching apparel should be fast, simple, and reliable. If you sell custom tees, run an Etsy shop, or manage a boutique brand, adding sparkle without sacrificing washability or stretch is a game changer. That is why glitter dtf transfers for shirts are becoming the go-to choice for creators who want bold shine, soft hand feel, and quick turnaround.
Why choose glitter DTF transfers for shirts
Glitter DTF transfers combine full-color DTF printing with a glitter layer that catches light without feeling heavy. You get vivid prints, reliable adhesion across cotton and polyester blends, and a finish that stretches with the garment. Here’s what makes them ideal for small businesses and apparel creators:
- Vivid, full-color prints with glitter sparkle on top
- Soft hand feel, even on lightweight tees
- Works on cotton, polyester, and blended fabrics
- Low minimums and same-day options for local pickup in Tempe
Before you order, check design requirements and print specs in our easy guide, so your art prints exactly as intended. See our Press Instructions for step-by-step tips and troubleshooting: Press Instructions & Tips.
How glitter DTF transfers work
Glitter DTF combines standard direct-to-film printing with a glitter application layer. The process generally follows these steps:
- Print artwork onto DTF film with pigment inks.
- Apply hot-melt adhesive powder, then cure.
- Add a glitter layer where requested, then cure again.
- Transfer to garment using a heat press, peel carrier film cold or warm depending on specs.
That glitter layer is formulated to bond to the ink and adhesive, so the sparkle stays put through washing and wear. Five Star DTF produces glitter finishes that stay soft and flexible, perfect for t-shirts, hoodies, and retail apparel.
Best uses and design tips
Glitter works best when used as an accent or background highlight. Avoid tiny type or hairline strokes for the glittered areas. Here are practical design tips:
- Use glitter for large fills, backgrounds, or bold lettering
- Keep glitter areas at least 0.25 inch for reliable coverage
- Convert type to outlines and embed fonts in vector files
- Use high-resolution images for halftones and gradients
Want a sample before you commit to a run? Order a small test print to see sparkle, stretch, and wash performance.
Heat press settings and application tips
Getting the press right is essential for durability. Typical starting settings for glitter DTF transfers are 320°F to 330°F for 12 to 18 seconds at medium pressure, then cold peel unless specified otherwise. Always test a sample before full production, and follow these steps:
- Pre-press garment for 2-3 seconds to remove moisture and wrinkles
- Position transfer carefully, cover with a silicon or Teflon sheet
- Press using consistent pressure, then allow carrier film to cool if cold peel is required
- Post-press with a cover sheet for 2-3 seconds improves washability and hand
For detailed machine-specific guidance, follow our full Press Instructions: Press Instructions & Tips.
Ordering, turnaround, and shipping
Five Star DTF emphasizes speed for creators who need inventory fast. We offer:
- Same-day printing and local pickup in Tempe, AZ for qualifying orders
- Fast nationwide shipping, free on orders over $100
- No minimum order quantities for most products
Order online or upload your artwork at our DTF Transfers page: Order DTF Transfers. For glitter-specific options, see our Glitter DTF Transfers product page: Glitter DTF Transfers. Want stickers or promo decals too? We also offer UV DTF Stickers: UV DTF Stickers.
Pricing and scale, what to expect
Glitter adds a small premium compared with standard DTF prints because of the extra process steps. However, the durability and retail appeal often justify the cost for small brands and resellers. Bulk pricing and gang sheet options make larger runs affordable. Contact us for a custom quote through our contact page: Contact & Local Pickup.
Summary
Glitter DTF transfers bring sparkle, stretch, and retail-ready durability to your shirts without the restrictive feel of heavy vinyl. They are ideal for boutique brands, Etsy sellers, and print shops that want consistent, high-volume-ready results with fast turnaround and local support.
FAQs
What fabrics work best with glitter DTF transfers?
Most cotton and polyester blends work well. Glitter DTF adheres reliably to both natural and synthetic fibers, but always test on dark or specialty fabrics first.
Can glitter DTF transfers be washed like normal prints?
Yes, when applied with proper heat press settings and post-press care, glitter DTF transfers withstand repeated washing. Turn garments inside out and use cold wash cycles for best longevity.
Do you offer same-day glitter DTF printing?
Yes, Five Star DTF offers same-day printing and local pickup in Tempe, AZ on qualifying orders. Contact us early in the day for rush items.
How do I prepare artwork for glitter areas?
Provide a separate layer or spot color indicating glitter placement, keep small details larger than 0.25 inch, and use vector shapes for crisp edges.
Are there minimum orders for glitter DTF transfers?
We offer no minimums on many products. For large volume runs or gang sheets, we provide discounted pricing—request a quote on our product pages.
Can glitter be combined with textured or metallic inks?
Yes, glitter pairs well with specialty inks, but combining multiple effects may require test prints to confirm final appearance and hand.
Ready to order your glitter DTF transfers?
Order online today to get premium sparkle printed fast in Tempe, or stop by for local pickup at our shop. Upload artwork or place an order here: https://fivestardtf.com/product/dtf-transfers/
📍 Local pickup: 305 S Rockford Dr Ste B, Tempe, AZ 85281
All orders over $100 ship free, and we offer same-day printing options for Arizona customers. If you need help prepping artwork or choosing glitter placement, reach out via our contact page: Contact & Local Pickup.
Conclusion
Here’s the thing, sparkle sells. Glitter DTF transfers let you add that premium pop to shirts and hoodies while keeping production simple and cost effective. With no minimums, fast local service in Tempe, and nationwide shipping, Five Star DTF makes it easy to scale seasonal collections, sell on Etsy, or fulfill wholesale orders quickly. Ready to add shine to your line? We’re print-shop-ready when you are.
About Five Star DTF
Five Star DTF is Arizona’s leading provider of DTF transfers, UV DTF stickers, and Glitter DTF prints — offering same-day printing, fast nationwide shipping, and convenient local pickup in Tempe, Arizona.
We proudly serve Tempe, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, and all of Arizona — helping creators, apparel brands, and print shops produce premium, press-ready transfers with vivid color, soft stretch, and long-lasting durability. No setup fees. No minimum orders. Always fast turnaround.
Our Top Products:
- DTF Transfers
- Glitter DTF Transfers
- UV DTF Stickers
- Press Instructions & Tips
- Contact & Local Pickup
Ready to Print?
Order DTF Transfers or Upload Your Artwork to get started today.
All orders over $100 ship free — printed fast in Tempe, AZ and shipped statewide across Arizona and nationwide.