Screen Print Transfers and How to Apply Them!
If you’re thinking about setting up a t-shirt printing business, you’re probably wondering what kind of screen-printed transfers are available out there.
Here’s a quick guide to the different types you can find, as well as how to properly apply them using a professional heat press!
A screen-printed transfers service is a great way to add your personal touch to t-shirts, hoodies, and other clothing.
Types of Screen Printed Transfer
There are a variety of different screen-printed heat transfers available to suit different needs and a few things to consider when choosing the right type for your project. The most important factor is the fine detail of the print.
Plastisol, Polytran, Elastika, UltraColour (DST), and Digi-Print Sub-Block are all great options that each have unique features!
Screen Printed Transfers UK Availability!
There are many different types of transfer available in the UK & it is worthwhile searching for a local supplier of transfers for t shirt printing near you. Each type of transfer substrate has its benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the right one for your project.
HTV transfers are made of a thin, flexible vinyl that is cut into the desired design and then pressed onto the fabric with a heat press.
HTV is available in a wide range of designs and colours, including metallics and fluorescents. It’s also relatively inexpensive and easy to use, making it a versatile option for t-shirt printing.
Plastisol Transfers
Plastisol ink is made of PVC particles that are suspended in a plasticizer, making it thicker and more opaque than other inks. This makes plastisol transfers ideal for long-lasting prints that won’t fade or crack over time.
Plastisol transfers produce the best prints but are also the most expensive option.
Polytran
Polytran is a polyester fabric that has been impregnated with a heat-activated adhesive. This makes it easy to print on and provides a durable, long-lasting finish.
Polytran transfers are less expensive than plastisol and offer a wide range of design options.
Elastika
Elastika is a polyurethane film that is impregnated with a heat-activated adhesive. It is available in a wide range of colours and designs, making it a versatile option for t-shirt printing.
Elastika is specifically developed for creating flexible, durable prints.
UltraColour (DST)
UltraColour is a digital printing process that uses CMYK inks to produce full-colour prints. UltraColour transfers are more expensive than other types of screen-printed transfers but offer a wide range of designs and colours, including metallics and fluorescents.
Digi-Print Sub-Block
Digi-Print Sub-Block digital transfers offer a quick and easy way to print high quality images. Digi-Print is a digital CMYK process to produce full-colour prints.
Sub-Block transfers are made of a thin, flexible vinyl that is cut to the desired design and then pressed onto the fabric.
Benefits of Using Screen Printed Transfers for t-shirt Printing
Now that you know a little bit more about the different types of screen-printed transfer material available, let’s take a look at the benefits of using them.
Screen-printed transfers are a great way to add custom designs to garments. They are also durable and washable, making them perfect for clothing that will be worn often.
HTV transfers are made from durable vinyl material and can last for many washes. Another advantage of HTV transfers is that they can be easily removed if needed.
Heat transfer vinyl (HTV) transfers are a popular choice for t-shirt printing, as they offer a quick and easy way to add graphics.
How to Apply Custom Heat Transfers to Clothing
There are a few different ways to apply custom transfers to clothing, but the most common and best way is to use a professional heat press.
To properly apply transfers, you will need the following supplies:
- Heat press
- Custom heat transfer design
- T-shirt or another piece of fabric
- Heat transfer vinyl (HTV), Plastisol transfers or sublimation paper
- Masking tape or other adhesive
Custom Transfers Application Instructions
- Make sure the garment is clean and free of any lint or debris to help ensure that the transfer adheres properly.
- Preheat your heat press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Cut out your screen-printed transfer design.
- Place the transfer onto the fabric in the desired location. If using HTV, use masking tape or similar to hold it in place.
- Place a sheet of heat transfer paper over the screen-printed transfer to protect it from direct contact with the hot press plate.
- Close the heat press and apply pressure and heat according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, you will need to press for 10-15 seconds.
- Carefully remove the heat transfer paper and let the garment cool.
Top Tips for Getting the Best Results When Using Screen Printed Transfers
No matter which type of transfer you choose, there are a few things you can do to ensure the best results for your finished product.
To start, it’s important to use high-quality transfer paper to ensure that the image is transferred clearly and accurately. Additionally, be sure to mirror your image before printing it onto the transfer paper to ensure that the image is transferred in the correct orientation.
Once you’ve printed your image onto the paper, it’s time to apply it to your garment. If using a press, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure that you don’t damage the machine or the garment. When applying the transfer, be sure to use even pressure and heat to avoid wrinkles or bubbling.
Finally, once the transfer is applied, let it cool completely before wearing or washing the garment. This will help to set the image.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be sure your custom heat transfers will last for many washes.
Investing in Your Screen Printing Business
Applying transfers to garment fabric is easy once you learn the basics, but if you want a superior result, it’s best to use a professional heat press.
Heat presses are designed to give a perfect finish every time. They’re also much more accurate and easier to use than an iron, so they’re worth the investment if you’re planning on doing a lot of screen printing.
Screen-printed transfers are a great way to add your personal touch to clothing. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to apply them like a pro!
Screen Print Transfers Guide Summary
We hope that our screen print transfers guide has been an informative source of help in you choosing the right heat press for your business needs.
To keep up to date with other guides and additional information, please feel free to check out the Heat Transfer Help Guides and Blog section on our website. Topics include heat press machines, custom heat transfers, heat transfer vinyls, heat transfer papers and heat press accessories.
Please visit our Purchasing Information page for more details of where to purchase.