Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about TPU 3D High Build transfers, artwork setup, production, pressing and delivery.
TPU 3D High Build Transfers
What are TPU 3D High Build transfers?
TPU 3D High Build transfers are raised heat transfers that create a premium rubberised patch-style finish. They add depth, texture and a bold 3D feel to logos, badges and garment branding.
How are TPU transfers different from standard DTF transfers?
Standard DTF transfers have a flat printed finish. TPU 3D High Build transfers have a raised, textured finish with a flexible rubberised feel. They are best used for logos, badges, patches and premium branding where you want the design to stand out.
Do I need to sew TPU patches on?
No. TPU 3D High Build transfers are designed to be heat pressed onto suitable garments and products. They give a raised patch-style look without stitching or traditional patch mould setup.
Are TPU transfers flexible?
Yes. TPU transfers have a flexible rubberised feel. They are designed to move with the garment, but they are still a raised product and will feel different from a flat DTF transfer.
Will TPU look exactly like standard DTF?
No. TPU 3D High Build is a raised, textured product. It is designed to give a premium patch-style effect, not a flat print finish.
Small variations in height, edge detail, texture and finish can occur due to the production process.
Artwork & File Setup
What artwork works best for TPU 3D High Build?
Bold artwork works best. Simple logos, solid shapes, strong outlines, clear text and badge-style designs usually produce the best result.
Very fine detail, tiny text, thin lines, soft fades, gradients, semi-transparent effects or highly detailed artwork may not be suitable for TPU production.
Can any design be made into TPU?
Not every design is suitable. TPU 3D High Build is a specialist raised product, so artwork may need to be simplified or adjusted to work properly. If you are unsure, contact us before ordering and we can advise.
What file type should I upload?
Where possible, upload a high-quality transparent PNG, PDF, SVG, AI or EPS file. Vector artwork is usually best for clean logos and text.
Avoid screenshots, low-resolution images, blurry files or artwork placed on a coloured background unless you want that background produced.
Do I need a transparent background?
Yes, if you only want the logo or design produced, your artwork should be supplied with a transparent background.
If your file contains a background and you do not ask us to remove it, your order may be produced with the background included.
Can you remove backgrounds from artwork?
Background removal is not included as standard. If you need a background removed, please contact us before ordering or include clear instructions. Additional charges may apply depending on the artwork.
Can you check my artwork before I order?
We can offer general advice if you are unsure whether your artwork is suitable. However, placing an order does not include a full artwork checking, editing, resizing or background removal service unless this has been agreed separately.
Customers are responsible for supplying correct, suitable and print-ready artwork.
Are TPU transfers suitable for small text?
Small text may not always be suitable. TPU works best with clear, bold text and strong shapes. Very small lettering, thin strokes or fine detail may not produce cleanly as a raised transfer.
Colour, Finish & Sizing
Can TPU transfers include full colour?
TPU transfers can be produced in different colours depending on the design and product option selected. However, they are not the same as standard full colour DTF. If your artwork is very detailed, photographic or gradient-heavy, standard DTF may be more suitable.
Will the colours match my screen?
Not exactly. Colours can vary between screens, artwork files, materials and production methods. Screen colours are not an exact representation of the final physical product.
TPU 3D High Build also has a different texture and finish to standard flat DTF, so colours may appear different once produced.
What sizes do you offer?
Our product pages show the available size options. Smaller TPU transfers are ideal for logos and badges up to 10cm, while larger options are better suited for bigger branding placements.
Always check the product size before ordering.
Application & Pressing
Can I apply TPU transfers with a heat press?
Yes. TPU transfers are supplied ready to apply with a heat press. We recommend using a proper heat press rather than a domestic iron, as consistent pressure and temperature are important for a good result.
Can I use a household iron?
No, we do not recommend using a household iron. TPU transfers need consistent heat and pressure, which is best achieved with a proper heat press.
How do I press TPU transfers?
Pressing instructions will be supplied or shown on the product page. You must follow the correct time, temperature, pressure and peeling method.
Incorrect pressing can cause poor adhesion, garment damage or transfer failure.
Do I need to test first?
Yes. We always recommend testing before applying transfers to valuable garments, customer orders or large production runs. This helps confirm garment suitability, press settings and final finish.
Are TPU transfers washable?
TPU transfers are designed for garment use when applied correctly. Wash durability depends on correct pressing, garment suitability and aftercare.
Always follow the pressing and washing guidance supplied with your order.
Can I tumble dry garments with TPU transfers?
We recommend avoiding high heat tumble drying where possible, as excessive heat can affect many garment decoration methods. Follow the care instructions provided and test if you are unsure.
Garments & Product Suitability
What garments can TPU transfers be used on?
TPU transfers can be used on many suitable garments such as hoodies, sweatshirts, t-shirts, workwear and uniforms. The garment must be suitable for heat press application.
We recommend testing before pressing onto valuable garments or full production runs.
Can I use TPU transfers on caps?
TPU transfers can be suitable for some caps, but application depends on the cap shape, material and heat press setup. A cap press may be required. We recommend testing first before applying to large quantities.
Can I use TPU transfers on bags?
Yes, TPU transfers can work well on suitable bags and accessories. However, the material must be suitable for heat pressing. Always test first, especially on coated, nylon, waterproof or heat-sensitive materials.
What are TPU transfers best used for?
TPU transfers are ideal for clothing brands, streetwear, workwear, uniforms, hoodies, caps, bags, accessories and premium logo placements. They work especially well for chest logos, sleeve badges, brand marks and bold statement details.
Production & Delivery
How long does production take?
Production time depends on the order size, artwork suitability, workload and current production levels. Estimated production or dispatch information will be shown on the product page or at checkout where available.
Is delivery time the same as production time?
No. Production time is the time needed to make your order. Delivery time starts after your order has been dispatched and handed to Royal Mail.
For example, a tracked delivery service refers to the estimated delivery time after dispatch, not from the moment you place the order.
Who do you ship with?
We use Royal Mail tracked delivery services. Available delivery options will be shown at checkout.
Are delivery times guaranteed?
Delivery times are estimates unless a guaranteed service is specifically selected and confirmed at checkout.
Once an order has been dispatched with tracking, delivery is handled by Royal Mail. Delays caused by Royal Mail, weather, strikes, missed deliveries or other events outside our control are not our responsibility.
What happens if Royal Mail delays my parcel?
We will help with tracking where possible, but we cannot refund or remake custom orders simply because Royal Mail has delayed the delivery.
We recommend ordering with enough time before customer deadlines, events, launches or production schedules.
What if my parcel says delivered but I cannot find it?
Please check with neighbours, reception areas, safe places, household members and your local Royal Mail delivery office.
If Royal Mail confirms delivery to the address provided, we cannot accept responsibility for parcels that are lost, stolen or misplaced after delivery.
What if my order arrives damaged?
Contact us as soon as possible at orders@tpupatches.co.uk with your order number and clear photos of the packaging and goods.
Please do not throw away the packaging until the issue has been reviewed.
Returns, Refunds & Cancellations
Can I return my order?
Custom TPU transfers and custom printed products are made to order, so they cannot be returned due to change of mind once production has started.
If your order is faulty or incorrect due to an error on our part, contact us and we will review the issue.
Can I cancel my order?
Contact us immediately at orders@tpupatches.co.uk if you need to cancel.
If production has not started, we will do our best to help. Once production has started, custom orders cannot usually be cancelled or refunded unless there is a fault or error on our part.
Do you offer refunds?
Refunds are only offered where appropriate, such as where an order is faulty, incorrect or not as described due to an error on our part.
We do not offer refunds for customer artwork issues, incorrect sizing, change of mind, delivery delays outside our control or incorrect application.
What if I supplied the wrong artwork?
If incorrect artwork was supplied and the order has already gone into production, we cannot offer a refund or free reprint.
Customers are responsible for checking artwork, size, spelling, colours, file setup and order details before placing an order.
What if I ordered the wrong size?
If the size selected at checkout was incorrect and production has started, we cannot refund or reprint the order for free.
Please check all measurements carefully before ordering.
Samples, Bulk Orders & Repeat Orders
Do you offer sample packs?
If sample packs are available, they will be listed on the website. Sample packs are a good way to see the TPU finish before placing a larger order.
Can I order in bulk?
Yes. TPU transfers are suitable for small runs and bulk orders. For larger quantities or repeat orders, contact us at orders@tpupatches.co.uk.
Can I use the same artwork for repeat orders?
In many cases, yes. However, we recommend keeping your own artwork files safely. If you need a repeat order, contact us with your previous order number where possible.
Copyright & Permissions
Do I need permission to print my logo?
Yes. By uploading artwork, you confirm that you own the design or have permission to reproduce it. We are not responsible for copyright, trademark or intellectual property issues caused by customer-supplied artwork.
Can you refuse artwork?
Yes. We reserve the right to refuse artwork that we believe may be unlawful, offensive, infringing, misleading or unsuitable for production.
Can you use my artwork for marketing?
We will not use your artwork for marketing without your permission. We may ask if we would like to photograph or share a finished product, but this is optional.
Contact
How do I contact you?
For order questions, artwork queries, delivery issues or general support, email:
orders@tpupatches.co.uk
Please include your order number if your message relates to an existing order.




