Things You'll Need:
- T-shirt or other garment
- Transfer paper
- Iron
- Ironing board
- Parchment paper
- Scissors
- Ink jet printer
- Computer
- Basic graphics software
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Step 1
Choose a clean, wrikle-free T-shirt. A cotton blend works best.
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Step 2
Pick an image on the computer and print a test version on plain paper. Make sure the size of the design is correct and colors are printing as expected. Then adjust the image as necessary. The image should appear reversed, or mirror like.
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Step 3
Identify and purchase the correct transfer paper for your printer. Most iron-on transfers will only work with ink jet printers. Some companies specify transfers for light and dark T-shirts.
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Step 4
Print the image onto the transfer. Check that the paper is inserted correctly, and the image is printed onto the correct side. Look over the image for a final inspection before ironing on to the T-shirt.
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Step 5
Trim the unprinted areas away from the design's edge. Trimming will allow visualization of where to place the image. Place the t-shirt on the ironing board and place parchment paper between the layers off the T-shirt to avoid the design from transferring through the layers.
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Step 6
Place the transfer face-down. Apply a piece of parchment paper over the transfer. With a hot iron, press down onto the transfer, starting at the edges. Rotate the iron in circular motions, working inward. Instructions will vary with the types of transfer paper used. Read instructions thoroughly for appropriate iron temperature and the length of the ironing process. Once cooled, slowly peel the transfer paper backing away, revealing the finished look.
