How to use heat transfer paper on T-shirts

You may have seen these brightly colored designs on shirts, caps, and bags, and other many items. A material called transfer paper is used to transfer printed designs onto these items.

Transfer paper is very commonly for printing on T-shirts, but its use isn't limited to fabrics. You can use it to apply on phone cases, mugs, windows, and much more. In short, it's a way to create designs on a wide variety of objects.

This article highlights the function of transfer paper, its different types and the detailed procedure for transferring designs onto T-shirts.

What is transfer paper?

Transfer paper, more specifically Heat transfer paper, is a type of special paper onto which a design is printed using special heat-transfer inks. This design is then transferred onto the desired material using heat and pressure. It is also known as heat-transfer paper, as a regular iron can be used as a heat press to transfer the design.

It's not possible to print directly onto some materials. That's why we use it as effective design medium. Furthermore, with transfer paper, it's easier to save and store multiple designs at once. These designs can then be used to transfer and recreate the pattern on reproduced material, whether it's wood, fabric, or metal.

How does transfer paperwork?

Thermal transfer paper is different from the regular paper we use for printing. It is coated with a layer of resin/wax. This coating protects the printed design.

When heat and pressure are applied to the transfer paper, the resin layer softens. As a result, the ink detaches from the paper and adheres to the desired surface, such as fabric, wood, or ceramic. The heat and pressure ensure strong attachment of the resin and pigments to the desired substrate.

Choose the appropriate transfer paper

Select the appropriate transfer paper based on the fabric and technique you are using. For example, if you are using heat transfer vinyl (HTV), you will need a printable vinyl sheet. For sublimation, use sublimation paper. Keep in mind the previous point regarding dark and light fabrics. Choose your transfer paper wisely.

Print your design

Create a design and print it onto the transfer paper using thermal transfer inks. Make sure your printer is compatible with these inks for best results. For light-colored fabric transfer paper, print your design in reverse (mirror image). For dark-colored fabric transfer paper, print the design normally.

Cutting

If you are using printable HTV (vinyl), you will need to cut the design onto the transfer paper. For this, a specialized cutting machine, such as the HTVRONT necessary. If you are using regular heat transfer vinyl (which does not need to be printed), this type of cutter is essential for cutting out the design.

vinyl cutter

Versatile handcrafted machine for cutting vinyl

Heat press

place the design face down on the t-shirt

Place your T-shirt on the heat press. t shirt press beforehand to remove any creases and moisture. Place the design face down on the T-shirt and place a sheet of parchment paper or Teflon over the design to protect it during the heating process.

Preheat the heat press. Depending on the printing technique, different temperature ranges must be observed. If you are using HTVRONT Smart Heat Press, follow this adjustment guide.

Peeling and finishing

peel off the backing paper

After pressing, peel off the transfer paper, hot or cold, according to the manufacturer's instructions.

FAQ on the use of transfer paper

Can you print on transfer paper?

Yes, transfer paper is primarily designed to reproduce a design. And the first step is to digitally print your design onto the transfer paper.

How to print on heat transfer paper?

Load the paper into the printer as you would regular paper. However, you will need a Good printer compatible with special heat transfer inks. Print your design on the coated side of the paper.

Can transfer paper be used in a regular printer?

You can use transfer paper in a regular printer. However, you must ensure that the type of heat transfer ink is compatible with the printer.

Do you need a required ink for heat transfer paper?

Heat transfer paper requires specialized inks. These are pigment- and solvent-based inks that adhere to or infuse into the material when heated.

Can transfer paper be used on wood?

Yes, you can use transfer paper to print on wood. Generally, wood can withstand all types of heat transfer. Printing techniques; any type of transfer paper can therefore be used for printing on wood.

How to use a hot press machine

It may seem difficult at first, but once you master the process, a hot press machine is relatively easy to use. You can choose between a basic or a professional hot press machine. The basic machine is suitable for home use and personal needs. A Press machine, on the other hand, is built for large orders and has more sophisticated heat and temperature controls. No matter which option you choose, the basic process remains the same.

Conclusion

Transfer paper is therefore a best tool for printing your favorite designs onto fabrics, wood, and other materials. To Finish the transfer process, you will also need a cutting tool and a heat press.