The Ultimate Guide To HYI Heat Transfers Processing Methods

As heat trasnfer materials and technologies on the market continue to iterate and update, comprehensive heat trasnfers processing methods have become a required topic for business operators. Although there are many posts on this topic, none of them can comprehensively explain different heat trasnfers such as screen printing transfer, DTF, HTV, rhinestone, silicone, TPU, etc. and their processing methods. HYI has more than 10 years of experience in customizing heat trasnfers production, we have put together this comprehensive guide, covering the working principle and common types of heat trasnfers, the equipment and consumables required for heat trasnfer processing, step-by-step instructions for heat pressing, tips for heat pressing, and what you need to know when heat pressing Common problems and solutions to know about.

If you are in the heat transfer business or want to be in the business, please read this guide to the end.

How Heat Transfers Work & Common Types

Heat transfers are made of rhinestone, HTV, fabric, PET film and other materials, with customized patterns and colors through laser cutting, digital printing, embroidery, high frequency and other different processes. The back of these materials is coated with unique hot melt adhesive, which is heated and pressured Afterwards, a reaction will occur to transfer the pattern to various fabric surfaces. These common customized heat transfers mainly include：

1.  Rhinestone Transfer

It's like diamond shining, with unparalleled sparkle and brilliant appearance, and a 3D effect.

2.  Rhinestud Transfer

It has 8 metal facets, has a stunning metallic luster and a 3D look, and is affordable.

3.  Sequin Transfer

It's made of small shiny spangles , which has a saparkle appearance and is light and breathable.

4.  Nail Head Transfer

It has a smooth metallic luster with a slightly 3D look. Available in different shapes, sizes and colors, including classic shades like pearl and neon.

5.  Dome Stud Transfer

It is made of raised aluminum semicircles, with a smooth surface, metallic luster and a full three-dimensional feel.

6.  Glitter Transfer

It has a frosted feel and shiny look.

7.  Foil Transfer

It's thin, smooth, has a metallic sheen, is unrivaled in stretchability, and comes in a variety of appearance options, including holographic.

8.  PU Transfer

Not only is it soft, smooth, and stretchy, it's also affordable.

9.  Flock Transfer

It has a suede feel and soft velvet touch.

10.  3D Puff Transfer

It has a 3D fluffy effect and is soft and comfortable to the touch.

11.  TPU Transfer

It has a rich special effect look, excellent elasticity and a very comfortable feel.

12.  PVC Transfer

It is made of high-quality environmentally friendly PVC with excellent stability and bright colors, making it one of the economical options.

13.  Silicone Transfer

It has a 3D effect and a soft skin-friendly feel, yet is durable.

14.  Faux Leather Transfer

It's made of specialty faux leather fabric, which has a vintage leather loo.

15.  Microsuede Transfer

It has a soft texture, skin friendly velvet feeling.

16.  Velvet Transfer

It has a furry appearance, feels smooth and soft, and is skin-friendly.

17.  Satin Transfer

It's has a smooth surface and a satin-luster.

18.  Twill Heat Transfer

It has the classic pattern of diagonal parallel ribs, is very durable.

19.  Lace Transfer

It is a thin mesh transfer,the flower texture featuring a hazy feel and known for a classic feminine look.

20.  Oxford Fabric Transfer

It is a transfer with a classic Oxford fabric texture, clear texture and excellent wear resistance.

21.  DTF Transfer

Print any design onto film in vibrant unlimited colors with a high level of detail and transfer it to any product with incredibly soft touch and durability.

22.  UV Transfer

Print any design in unlimited colors and high detail onto printable substrates such as PU, foil or puff and transfer it to any product, material and color to achieve embossed effects, metallic effects, 3D fluffy Effective, soft to the touch and durable.

23.  Sublimation Transfer

Dye-sublimate any design in unlimited colors and realistic designs onto a printable substrate such as twill, satin, velvet, glitter or foil and transfer it to any product, material and color for a unique effect.

24.  Eco solcent Transfer

Print an unlimited number of colors and realistic, authentic designs onto printable substrates such as PU, flock and then transfer them to any product, material and color for unique effects.

25.  Digital Screen Printing Transfer

One of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to obtain high-quality decorative screen printing. Full color options add a pop of color to any design and logo. There are also thermochromic, glitter and other trendy style options.

Equipment & Consumables Required For Heat Transfers Processing

The following is the equipment and consumables required for a successful heat transfer process in order to apply logos, patterns, etc. to the desired product via heat transfer：

1.  Heat Press

In the world of custom printing and personalization, heat presses are an indispensable tool. A heat press is a machine that uses heat and pressure to transfer patterns or graphics onto a variety of surfaces. It uses a combination of heat, time and pressure to permanently adhere a thermal transfer print to the substrate of choice. The heat press can precisely control the temperature and pressure to ensure uniform heat and pressure distribution and achieve first-class adhesion and durability of the transfer effect. If you are working on a large scale or need heat transfers frequently, it is highly recommended that you invest in a quality heat press. There are two main types of heat presses:

1.1Clamshell heat press

The top plate of this heat press can be opened and closed like a clamshell. It is more compact and suitable for smaller work spaces.

1.2 Swinging Heat Press

The top platen of the swinging heat press can swing to the side for better contact with the lower platen. This design is ideal for handling thicker items or when greater precision is required.

2.Household Iron

In addition to heat presses, there are irons that can be used to apply custom heat transfers. Most household irons are steam irons, and the steam holes will give you an uneven surface, whereas you want the heat to come from a flat, solid surface. So the iron will be better if there are no holes in the iron plate. Plus it doesn’t provide the same consistent or professional results as a heat press. However, with good technique, you can still get good results with an iron, especially with simple designs.

3.Protective Film

Also called a heat pad, usually made of heat-resistant foam or silicone rubber, it sits on the bottom platen of the heat press.

4.Heat Transfer Tape

It is heat resistant and secures heat transfers to the product.

5.Heat Transfer Cover Film

They are usually made of Teflon and are placed between the heating plate and the heat transfer paper to keep the heat press clean and prevent the transfer paper from scorching due to the heat transfer temperature.

6.Substrate

The substrate is the product you want to decorate. It can be anything including a t-shirt, sweatshirt, polo shirt, custom t-shirt or bag.

Step By Step Instructions For Heat Transfer Process

Here are the detailed steps for a successful heat transfers process:

1.  Prepare Substrate

Make sure the substrate (t-shirt, hat, etc.) is clean, dry and free of wrinkles or debris. For fabrics, pre-pressing to remove moisture and wrinkles is critical for best results.

2.  Prepare Your Workspace

The heat press is clean and in good working order. Cover the work surface with a protective film such as parchment paper or a silicone mat.

3.  Heat Press Pressing Steps

Different types of heat transfer have the same operation, but each type has its own characteristics and special considerations, such as temperature, pressure, press time, etc., which should guide you on how to handle the process：

3.1 View Press Instructions

Follow the application temperature, pressure and time guidance for each heat transfers.As an experienced heat transfers manufacturer in the industry, we are proficient in various types of processes and have organized the heat transfer processing into a guide to provide you with convenient guidance., ensuring your design ultimately achieves professional, consistent results.

Heat Transfer Types	Processing Methods	Supported Devices	Pressing Instructions
Rhinestone Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：160-180℃ / 320℉-355℉ Ironing time：15-20 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Rhinestud Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：160-180℃ / 320℉-355℉ Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Sequin Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：150-170℃ / 300℉-340℉ Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Nail head Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：160-180℃ / 320℉-355℉ Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Dome stud Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：160-180℃ / 320℉-355℉ Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Glitter Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：160-180℃ / 320℉-355℉ Ironing time：15-20 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Foil Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：150-170℃ /300℉-340℉, 130-160℃/265℉-320℉ Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
PU Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：130-160℃/265℉-320℉ Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Flock Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：160-180℃ / 320℉-355℉ Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：4-6bar Peeling method：peel warm
Puff Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：140-150℃/280℉-300℉ Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
TPU Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：160-180℃ / 320℉-355℉ Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
PVC Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：130-160℃ or 265℉-320℉ Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Silicone Heat Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：160-180℃ / 320℉-355℉ Ironing time：15-20 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Faux Leather Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：160-180℃ / 320℉-355℉ Ironing time：15-20 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Microsuede Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：160-180℃ / 320℉-355℉ Ironing time：15-20 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Velvet Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：160-180℃ / 320℉-355℉ Ironing time：15-20 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Satin Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：140-150℃ / 280℉-300℉ Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：3-4bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Twill Heat Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：160-180℃ / 320℉-355℉ Ironing time：15-20 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Lace Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：140-150℃ / 280℉-300℉ Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Oxford Fabric Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：160-180℃ / 320℉-355℉ Ironing time：15-20 seconds Pressure：4-6bar/Medium pressure Peeling method：peel warm
DTF Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：130-160℃ / 265°-320° Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：4-6 bar/Medium Pressure Peeling method：peel warm
UV Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：130-160℃/265℉-320℉（PU/Foil）, 140-150℃/280℉-300℉(Puff) Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：4-6 bar/Medium Pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Sublimation Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：160-180℃ / 320℉-355℉（Glitter/Velvet /Twill）,150-170℃/300℉-340℉（Foil）, 140-150℃/280℉-300℉(Puff/Satin) Ironing time：15-20 seconds(Glitter/Velvet/Twill), 10-15 seconds（ Foil/Satin） Pressure：4-6 bar/Medium Pressure，3-4 bar/Medium Pressure（Satin） Peeling method：peel warm
Eco Solvent Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：130-160℃ / 265°-320°（PU），160-180℃ / 320℉-355℉（Flock） Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：4-6 bar/Medium Pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Digital Screen Printing Transfers	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：130-160℃ / 265°-320° Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：4-6 bar/Medium Pressure Peeling method：peel warm
Screen printing Transfer	heat transfer	Heat press, Household iron（Note that this is not a steam iron and is not recommended for ironing complex or large-sized patterns.）	Temperature ：130-160℃ / 265°-320° Ironing time：10-15 seconds Pressure：4-6 bar/Medium Pressure Peeling method：peel warm

3.2 Preheating Press

Please turn the heat press on, separate the heat plate from the heat pad, and let the heat plate preheat to achieve even heat distribution. Different materials require different temperature settings, and for most thermal transfer applications, the temperature setting is between 265 and 375 °F.

3.3 Adjust Pressure

The pressure depends on the thickness of the fabric, the thicker the fabric, the lower the pressure. For most projects, set the pressure to a medium 4-6 bar.

3.4 Set Time

Different types of heat transfers require specific times. Please refer to the following:

Hotfix Tranfers（Such as Rhinestone，rhinestud, etc.）：15 – 20 seconds

Vinyl Heat Transfers（Such as PU，foil, etc.）：10 – 15 seconds

Fabric Heat Transfers（Such as Satin，velvet, etc.）：10 – 20 seconds

Digital Heat Transfers（Such as DTF，screen printing transfer, etc.）：10 – 15 seconds

3.5 Position And Protect

Place the product on the plate of the heat press, making sure it is flat and wrinkle-free. Place the heat transfers face up anywhere on the product's pressing area, using an alignment tool such as a ruler, tape, or laser to ensure accurate placement. Mark the desired locations with a washable fabric pen or tailor's chalk. Once positioned, use heat-resistant tape to hold the transfer in place to prevent shifting during application. Then cover the transfer paper with heat transfer cover film to protect it during the heat transfer process. For some heat transfers that are easy to shift, such as rhinestone, there is usually a protective film on the back, which needs to be removed before placement.

3.6 Press

When everything is ready, start the heat press for pressing.

3.7 Peel

Once the timer goes off, turn on the heat press, follow the peel instructions, peel off the heat transfer paper, and you will see your design printed on the product.Care must be taken with this step to ensure that the pattern adheres completely to the surface and you are done. In addition, different types of heat transfer have different peeling methods. The following are the three common peeling methods：

3.7.1 Hot Peel

Taking off the film while the heat transfer paper is still hot has the advantage of high efficiency, but once the temperature drops too fast, there is a risk that it will not be easy to peel off.

3.7.2 Warm Peel

Allow the transfer to cool for at least 30 seconds and peel, the efficiency will be reduced but the peel will be more stable.

3.7.3 Cold Peel

Completely cool and peel, low efficiency, generally used for heat transfer printing of special materials.

4.Pressing Steps For Household Irons

Household irons operate similarly, but are more difficult to control in terms of temperature and pressure. The following should guide you on how to handle the process：

4.1 Check The Iron

You need to make sure there is no water or steam in the iron and it is very important that it is completely dry.

4.2 Set Temperature

Set the iron on high/cotton.

4.3 Position And Protect

Place the product on the plate of the heat press, making sure it is flat and wrinkle-free. Place the heat transfers face up anywhere on the product's pressing area, using an alignment tool such as a ruler, tape, or laser to ensure accurate placement. Mark the desired locations with a washable fabric pen or tailor's chalk. Once positioned, use heat-resistant tape to hold the transfer in place to prevent shifting during application.Cover the heat transfers with heat transfer cover film or a thin towel to protect it during the heat transfer process. For some heat transfers that are easy to shift, such as rhinestone, there is usually a protective film on the back, which needs to be removed before placement.

4.5 Press

Once everything is ready, start pressing, using the middle part of the iron to apply heavy, even pressure to the design and continually moving the iron over the pattern, especially around the edges. Because the heat of the iron is concentrated there

4.6 Set Time

Since we do not have a heat press timer, you can time it before releasing the pressure, different types of heat transfer require specific times, please refer to the following:

Hotfix Tranfers（Such as Rhinestone，rhinestud, etc.）：15 – 20 seconds

Vinyl Heat Transfers（Such as PU，foil, etc.）：10 – 15 seconds

Fabric Heat Transfers（Such as Satin，velvet, etc.）：10 – 20 seconds

Digital Heat Transfers（Such as DTF，screen printing transfer, etc.）：10 – 15 seconds

4.7 Peel

Once the timer goes off, turn on the heat press, follow the peel instructions, peel off the heat transfer paper, and you will see your design printed on the product.Care must be taken with this step to ensure that the pattern adheres completely to the surface and you are done. In addition, different types of heat transfer have different peeling methods. The following are the three common peeling methods：

4.7.1 Hot Peel

Taking off the film while the heat transfer paper is still hot has the advantage of high efficiency, but once the temperature drops too fast, there is a risk that it will not be easy to peel off.

4.7.2 Warm Peel

Allow the transfer to cool for at least 30 seconds and peel, the efficiency will be reduced but the peel will be more stable.

4.7.3 Cold Peel

Completely cool and peel, low efficiency, generally used for heat transfer printing of special materials.

四.Heat Pressing Tips

To ensure a smooth process and top-notch results, it helps to have a few practical tips.

1.High Quality Design

Using high-resolution images with the correct file size, type and color format is key to the final result. Be sure to read our heat transfer design size and placement guide.

2.Invest In Quality Heat Transfers

Investing in high-quality heat transfers, such as the quality of the raw materials used, whether the heat transfer sheet has been cutted, whether the complex design has been layered so that you only need to press it once, etc., will not only ensure durability but also Can improve your production efficiency.

3.Handle And Store With Care

Allow theheat transfers to dry before processing. Store unused heat transfer in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture.

4.Choose The Appropriate Fabric

Choose heat-resistant fabrics such as cotton, polyester and blends for best results. Test the specially coated fabric first.

5.Follow Press Instructions

Following the application temperature, pressure and time guidance for each heat transfers is key to achieving perfect results.

6.Prepress Your Substrate

Remove moisture and wrinkles from the substrate you want to decorate, such as clothing, bags, etc. before applying your heat transfer for a smoother result.

7.Testing Before Mass Production

Be sure to test on similar substrates and materials, including print quality, color accuracy, and layout, before committing to a full production run.

8.Uniform Pressure

Regularly check the heat press and adjust the pressure to ensure it is evenly distributed throughout the platen.

9.Temperature Accuracy

Use a reliable infrared thermometer to verify the accuracy of your heat press temperature settings.

10.Peel Off Correctly

Follow the specific peeling requirements for different transfers. Some require hot peeling, warm peeling or cold peeling.

五.Heat Pressing Common Problems And Solutions

1.The Transfer Is Not Firmly Attached

If the pattern doesn't adhere properly, you may not have pressed for enough time. Try increasing the compression time slightly. Insufficient pressure or temperature may be the cause. Check the settings and make sure the heat and pressure are evenly distributed. You may need to increase the pressure or increase the duration of compressions. Conduct different levels of testing to see the results. Check your heat press settings to make sure the temperature, pressure, and time are set correctly according to the manufacturer's instructions. Also, make sure the garment is free of lint and wrinkles.

2.Difficult to peel off

If the transfer paper sticks to the transfer paper and is difficult to peel off, it is most likely that the peeling method is inconsistent. Please check the heat transfer instructions and test according to the peeling type. Depending on the transfers, heating or cooling may be required for effective peeling.

3.Scorch Marks

When the temperature is too high or the pressing time is too long, scorching may occur. Please adjust settings accordingly. Reduce the hot pressing temperature. If the garment is heat-sensitive or susceptible to damage, use a heat-transfer overlay or thin cotton cloth to protect it during use.

4.Faded Colors

Fading occurs after pressing. The main reason is that the pressing temperature is too high. Test the pressing by adjusting the temperature. Or check whether the temperature of the heat press is accurate.

5.The Pattern Is Wrinkled Or Misaligned

This can happen if heat transfers move during application. Before heating, make sure the substrate and heat transfers are flat and secure. Also check whether the heat transfers itself has shifted.

6.Uneven

If the pressure distribution is uneven, the springs or hydraulic system in the heat press may need to be adjusted or replaced.

六.Conclusion

As you can see, with the development and iteration of heat transfer printing, there are more and more processing methods and derived problems of heat transfer printing. Quickly understanding and mastering these skills will be the key for us to maintain professionalism and competitiveness. We hope that through Use the information in this guide to take your heat transfers to new heights and get beautiful, consistent results every time you do it.

Are you ready to transfer your designs perfectly? Check out our popular and high-quality heat transfer processes and get started today!