HEAT TRANSFER PROCESS 

Heat Transfer
Heat transfer involves creating an image in reverse, printing it to high-release paper, and then transferring the image from the paper to a garment using heat and pressure. It’s ideal for quick turn-around times and small quantities, including one-off items such as printing names and numbers on athletic uniforms.

IMAGE DESIGN:

IMAGE DESIGN
Create a customized graphic using professional graphics software. Digital photographs, logos, slogans and other graphics are all suitable for heat transfer. When the design is complete, flip the image horizontally to create a reverse image.

TRANSFER IMAGE PREP:

TRANSFER IMAGE PREP
Once you’ve created your reversed digital image, print it onto transfer paper using heat transfer-compatible ink. Cut away any unprinted portions of the paper to avoid leaving excess transfer film on your garment.

PRINTING:

PRINTING
Place your garment on a platen to keep it flat and wrinkle-free during printing. Position the transfer on the garment, then use a heat press machine to apply high temperature (typically 385º F) and pressure to affix the transfer to the fabric. No drying or curing is required, although you should use caution when removing the hot garment from the press.

HEAT TRANSFER PRINTING EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES

  • Computer with graphics software, e.g., Adobe Creative Suite
  • Heat transfer-compatible inkjet printer, ink and transfer paper
  • Heat press
  • Substrate: Heat transfer is suitable for cotton, cotton blend and polyester garments. Light colours are preferable, but dark colours can be successfully printed with proper preparation.