How to Use Reversible Iron on Transfers
Most iron-on transfers that can be created using a home computer require that the image to be printed is reversed. This is so that when the image is printed it will appear correctly on the garment. Most of the fun in creating your own iron-on transfers comes from the design process, being able to create shirts and apparel that are truly unique. Learning how to properly use reversible iron-on transfers will insure that your one-of-a-kind designs turn out looking great.
Things You'll Need
- Computer with image editing software
- Printer
- Iron-on transfer paper
- Iron
- Pillowcase or old t-shirt
Instructions
-
-
1
Choose or design an image to print on your garment using a computer with image editing software. Once you have created a design, it may be helpful to print it to plain paper to size it for the best fit on your garment. Adjust the size as necessary.
-
2
Reverse the image for use with the iron on transfer. Most image editing programs will allow you to do this by selecting the "Image" drop down menu and choosing the "Flip/Rotate" option. Some may also refer to this process as "Mirror Image."
-
-
3
Print the reversed image to your transfer paper according to the included instructions.
-
4
Heat your iron to the highest setting. This is typically the cotton setting. You want to avoid any water coming into contact with your iron-on transfer so be sure the water reservoir of your iron is empty and that you do not use the "Steam" setting.
-
5
Place a pillowcase or an old t-shirt flat onto a hard surface. Do not use an ironing board. Use the iron to remove all wrinkles from the pillowcase or shirt.
-
6
Place the garment you will be ironing the image onto down on top of the pillowcase. Iron out any wrinkles and make sure the garment is aligned evenly.
-
7
Position the iron-on transfer paper with the image side down on the location that you wish to print it. Use the iron to evenly press the image onto the garment. Be sure to iron the image thoroughly, making sure to get all edges. The length of ironing may vary so refer to the instructions with your transfer paper for exact timing. Typically this process will take about 30 seconds.
-
8
Remove the garment from the ironing area and allow it to cool on a flat surface. Gently pull the transfer paper away from the garment to reveal the final print.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
It may be helpful to cut the transfer paper to the size of the image before ironing. This will make removing the paper after ironing much easier.
Do not hold the iron too long in one area. Keep the iron moving to avoid burning the garment underneath.
