How would you like to apply any design or one that you made yourself to any garment? Sounds cool, right? Well, it's possible with HTV.
HTV or Heat Transfer Vinyl is an easier alternative to silk screen printing and it is pretty amazing. It has been around for sometime now but was only recognized recently.
Today, it's used for personalizing everything from shirts to bags, but it also works great on leather, canvas, glass, acrylic and even wood. It's versatile and multifunctional because it sticks to almost any surface! Amazing right?
The best part is that when you use a high quality HTV, it can outlast the life of the garment it was applied to.
However, even if you are not new to designing garments with HTV, I'm sure you can still make use of these tips and tricks. So read on…
Tip #1 Use a cutting machine to make it easier to cut desired shapes. Without a cutting machine, a rotary cutter or good pair of scissors will do.
Tip #2 Be sure to place the shiny side of the HTV down on the cutting mat before you cut.
Tip #3 For designs that go one way like words and phrases for statement shirts, be sure to mirror the image. For those without a cutting machine, cut out the design with scissors.
Tip #4 If applying HTV on T-shirts, be sure to pre-press. Pre-pressing fabric will remove wrinkles, moisture, and allows for a perfect HTV transfer.
Tip #5 When using a heat press machine, use teflon sheets. The teflon sheets will protect the t-shirt, the transfer, and the platen. They should be placed on the top platen of the heat press and between the tshirt and transfer.
Tip #6 If applying HTV on a canvas fabric, use a heat press. On this type of fabric, pressure is very important. Press the HTV firmly.Wash it after so that the HTV will stick properly and will have an amazing feel or texture.
Tip #7 When using a flat iron, cover the HTV with a thin piece of fabric before you iron it on for about 30-60 seconds. Check to see if the HTV sheet has adhered. If not, repeat the process.
Tip #8 For large areas, press hot iron in sections. DO NOT SLIDE THE IRON. It is best to press, lift, and press again.
Tip #9 When applying HTV on something that will be washed, like shirts, tote bags, or pillow cases. Prewash and preshrink the garment first. This is a must so that the HTV will stick properly and puckering will be avoided.
Tip #10 Use the very durable and high-quality FireflyCraft HTV! This is a MUST!
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I hope these tips will help you in your next HTV project. I'm eager to hear from you and see your beautiful creations.