How to Iron-On Letters

You can use iron-on letters to personalize shirts, jackets, team jerseys and tote bags. Anything that is made of fabric and can be placed on an ironing board can have iron-on letters applied to it. Look for iron-on letters in the craft department of your local discount store or find them at a fabric store. Letters come in many styles, colors and sizes---from basic block letters to script.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Iron-on letters Household iron Ironing board Ruler Masking tape

1. Pre-wash the item to be personalized if it is new. This prevents shrinkage from damaging your iron-on letter message.

2. Determine the size of the space you have to work with. For instance, if you are placing names on the back of a team jersey, measure the back of the shirt across the shoulder blades. For a tote bag, measure the width of the bag. This will help you decide what size letters to buy for the project.

3. Write down the message or name you will be using for the iron-on letters. Count the letters and check for duplicate letters. Keep this information handy when shopping for letters, since you may need to buy two packages of iron-on letters to spell out your message.

4. Lay the iron-on letters on the shirt or item to be personalized. Play with the spacing and design. Do you want the letters in a straight line or a curve? Use this time to see how the shirt will look before you stick them down permanently. Use masking tape to make a temporary line to guide the placement of letters.

5. Pre-heat the iron, and check the instructions for the right temperature. Place the letters on the item to be personalized, with the adhesive side down. Only lay out as many letters as can fit under your iron.

6. Press the letters for 10 to 15 seconds. After ironing the entire message in place, flip the item over and press again from the inside. Allow to cool before removing the paper backing.

Resources

• Iron-on letter styles