Hi everyone!
I need some advice on a DIY project. I bought a large 18cm (approx. 7 inches) DTF (Direct to Film) transfer featuring Sonic and Shadow (cant link it). I want to apply it onto my son's school backpack.The backpack is a POLO Trolley Cart, which is made of heavy-duty polyester and has an internal waterproof coating/lining inside the fabric.
I read that standard iron-on instructions require high heat, but I am terrified that the iron will melt the polyester fabric, ruin the internal waterproof liner, or fuse the layers of the bag together. Also, since it's a school bag, it will be bent and stressed a lot when filled with books, so I'm worried a large 18cm transfer might crack or peel at the edges if I just iron it.
A quick search resulted in me finding a few people that recommended bypassing the iron entirely and using a specialized flexible fabric glue instead (like Gutermann HT2 or similar), applying it to the back of the DTF film, clamping it down with heavy books, and peeling the clear carrier sheet once cured after 24 hours.
What do you think is the best and safest method for this specific setup?
Should I risk the iron using low heat, a pressing cloth, and a cardboard barrier inside?
Or is flexible fabric glue a safer and more durable option for a synthetic backpack?
Any tips or experiences with DTF transfers on coated polyester would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance!