Layering DTF and Rhinestones for a Thanksgiving Design

Posted by Heat Transfer Warehouse on Oct 22nd 2025

Layering DTF and Rhinestones for a Thanksgiving Design

Give Your Thanksgiving Shirts a Little Extra Sparkle

Looking to make your Thanksgiving designs really stand out this year? ?✨ Combining DTF transfers with rhinestones gives you the perfect blend of full-color detail and eye-catching shine.

In this tutorial, we’ll press the DTF design first, then layer rhinestones on top — creating a dimensional look that’s perfect for holiday sweatshirts, tees or any project!

Why Combine DTF and Rhinestones?

  • Full color + sparkle: Get detailed graphics from your DTF print and highlight specific parts with rhinestones for depth and dazzle.

  • Durability: When layered correctly, both materials bond smoothly without affecting each other’s adhesion.

  • Customization: Add rhinestones only where you want extra shimmer — think lettering, accents, or leaves in your Thanksgiving design.

  • Perfect for holiday projects: It’s an easy way to make your fall apparel festive and fun!

Materials & Tools You’ll Need

Item

Recommendation

Notes

DTF Transfer

Heat Transfer Warehouse DTF

Pre-printed Thanksgiving design or your own custom art.

Rhinestone Transfer

Thanksgiving-themed or custom-made - link to the one we used

Make sure the rhinestones are hot-fix compatible.

Garment

Cotton/poly blend shirt or sweatshirt - link to some ideas

Pre-press to remove moisture and wrinkles.

Heat Press

Accurate temperature + medium pressure

Use for both DTF and rhinestone application.

Teflon or parchment paper

—

Protects your design and press.

Step 1: Press the DTF Transfer

  1. Pre-press your garment for 3–5 seconds to remove moisture.

  2. Align your DTF design and press at 300-305°F for 10–12 seconds with medium pressure.

  3. Let it cool completely, then cold peel the film slowly.

 Tip: DTF provides your full-color base — think “Happy Thanksgiving” graphics, turkeys, pumpkins, or leaf patterns.

Step 2: Apply the Rhinestones

  1. Place your rhinestone transfer directly on top of (or around) your DTF design.

  2. Cover with a Teflon or parchment sheet.

  3. Press at 325-330°F for 10–15 seconds with medium-firm pressure.

  4. Let it cool slightly, then peel the transfer sheet carefully.

Tip: Make sure no rhinestones sit directly over heavy ink areas — you want them to stick to fabric, not the DTF film.

Step 3: Show It Off!

You’ll have a vibrant, full-color Thanksgiving design with beautiful sparkle and texture — perfect for family gatherings, holiday markets, or matching shirts with your besties. 

Final Thoughts

Layering DTF and rhinestones is a fun, easy way to add sparkle to your designs. You get the best of both worlds — detailed, colorful art from your DTF and eye-catching shimmer from your rhinestones.

Play around with placement, colors, and materials to create something truly unique!