How to Heat Press Apparel

Heat presses are commonly used to fasten decorations such as rhinestones, letters, numbers or images onto clothing items such as T-shirts, tote bags or baseball caps. Many people prefer heat presses to regular irons, which typically do not get as hot or press with the force required for a good transfer. You can buy a heat press at a local crafts store; make sure the packaging indicates that it is heat-responsive, i.e. “iron-on letters.”

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Inkjet printer or color copier
• Heat transfer paper
• Scissors
• Heat Press

Instructions

1. Search for the desired image (e.g. "a volleyball") in Google Images, or create your own design using a program such as Photoshop or Microsoft Word (for lettering), making sure that the image is printed so that it will show up correctly when reversed onto the garment. Insert heat transfer paper into your printer. Print desired images.

2. Cut out image or lettering and place it face-down on the garment. Turn on heat press and allow it to warm up according to the directions. Place the item of clothing with the image carefully between the slabs of the press and close tightly. Leave closed according to the directions.

3. Open the press and remove the item after the allotted amount of time; a “cold peel” is often recommended because it allows the garment to fully absorb and set the transfer before it is disturbed. Peel backing away from heat transfer image.

Tips & Warnings

• Inkjet printers like Epson are recommended because their inks can create heat transfers that are permanently washable, but due to the translucent nature of the transfer paper, it is best to use light colored garments.

• Heat presses can become hotter than household irons and should be treated with caution.

• Keep fingers and clothing away from the heated slabs.

References

• Best Blanks: Heat Transfer FAQ
• Indigo: Transfer Printing