What is Heat Transfer Printing?
Heat printing, also known as heat transfer printing, is the process of
transferring heat-applied materials to various items (or substrates)
using a heat press.
Generally speaking, the term "heat printing" refers to the personalization
and customization of garments, other textiles, and hard goods using a
heat press. There is a wide variety of material that can be applied
through heat printing, from heat transfer vinyls (commonly used on
athletic uniforms), heat transfer materials featuring special effects (such
as glow-in-the-dark or reflective properties), and screen printed
transfers, to name just a few. Heat printing products are also referred to
as heat applied graphics and heat transfers.
There are several options for garment decoration, such as screen
printing, direct-to-garment printing, and embroidery. Heat printing can
be used in place of other methods or to supplement them. Learn more
about heat transfer printing in the following sections.
Comparing Decorating Methods
Several methods exist for decorating and customizing apparel and
other items.
Each process has its own advantages and disadvantages. Product
quality, start-up costs, and learning curve vary by method. Below is
a description of each of the most common decorating methods.
Embroidery
In embroidery, designs are stitched onto the substrate with
a needle and thread. Images and logos can be embroidered
on a wide variety of materials and colors, producing
professional-looking, long-lasting products.
There are, however, drawbacks to this method. Because of
the difficulty of using thread to produce shading, logos may
need to be altered. It is also difficult to embroider small
text and to achieve exact color-matching. Embroidery
carries a steep learning curve. It can be more time-consuming and less cost-effective
than other decorating options.
Start-up costs vary widely, but include embroidery machines ranging in price from
several hundred dollars (for hobby/enthusiast machines) to several thousand dollars for
professional-grade models. Software for computer-aided embroidery can also cost
anywhere from $200-$2000.
In embroidery, designs are stitched onto the substrate with a needle
and thread. Images and logos can be embroidered on a wide variety
of materials and colors, producing professional-looking, long-lasting
products. There are, however, drawbacks to this method. Because
of the difficulty of using thread to produce shading, logos may need
to be altered. It is also difficult to embroider small text and to
achieve exact color-matching. Embroidery carries a steep learning
curve. It can be more time-consuming and less cost-effective than
other decorating options.
Start-up costs vary widely, but include embroidery machines
ranging in price from several hundred dollars (for hobby/enthusiast
machines) to several thousand dollars for professional-grade
models. Software for computer-aided embroidery can also cost
anywhere from $200-$2000.
Screen Printing
In screen printing a piece of fabric is stretched over a wood
or metal frame, creating a screen. A stencil is then created
on the screen, which is placed over the substrate. Ink is
forced through the open areas of the screen, creating an
image on the substrate. This process is repeated for each
color of the design being applied.
Capable of producing detailed designs and logos, screen
printing is usually more cost-effective than embroidery.
Not only can images be produced on any color garment, but textures and effects (3-D,
reflection, etc.) can also be applied. Screen printing also offers a quicker turn-around
time on large orders.
Set-up and clean-up for screen printing can be extensive and messy, limiting the
number of colors for practical use. Also, some materials are not compatible with the
process. Given the time and material used for each step of the process, screen printing
is much better suited to large-volume jobs and is not efficient or economical for shortrun or sample production.
Equipment costs for starting a small screen printing operation are in the $2000-$7000
range, and there is a steep learning curve.
In screen printing a piece of fabric is stretched over a wood or metal
frame, creating a screen. A stencil is then created on the screen,
which is placed over the substrate. Ink is forced through the open
areas of the screen, creating an image on the substrate. This
process is repeated for each color of the design being applied.
Capable of producing detailed designs and logos, screen printing is
usually more cost-effective than embroidery. Not only can images
be produced on any color garment, but textures and effects (3-D,
reflection, etc.) can also be applied. Screen printing also offers a
quicker turn-around time on large orders.
Set-up and clean-up for screen printing can be extensive and
messy, limiting the number of colors for practical use. Also, some
materials are not compatible with the process. Given the time and
material used for each step of the process, screen printing is much
better suited to large-volume jobs and is not efficient or economical
for short-run or sample production.
Equipment costs for starting a small screen printing operation are in
the $2000-$7000 range, and there is a steep learning curve.
Heat Printing
Heat printing is a decorating process which uses heatapplied materials and a heat press to transfer designs and
images onto various items. There is a wide variety of heat
printing processes, such as transfer papers,
plastisol/screen printed transfers, dye sublimation, and
print/cut applications.
Heat printing is a decorating process which uses heat-applied
materials and a heat press to transfer designs and images onto
various items. There is a wide variety of heat printing processes,
such as transfer papers, plastisol/screen printed transfers, dye
sublimation, and print/cut applications.
Transfer Paper
Using a desktop color laser copier/printer or inkjet printer,
full color designs are printed onto specialized transfer
papers and heat applied to apparel or fabrics. This method
is quick and inexpensive, allowing almost instant
customization and requiring limited inventory of goods.
Photo-quality images can be quickly printed and applied to
garments.
While this method offers the advantage of high-quality
images, it has some drawbacks. Standard transfer paper
will not show white images on any garment. Because most
desktop printers do not have white ink, any areas which
show white on the transfer paper will show as the
garment color after application. This can be avoided by
using special paper for dark garments, though this paper
is more expensive and has a heavier feel than standard
transfer paper. Also, unless properly trimmed, most
transfer papers will leave an outline of excess coating
around the image when transferred onto garments.
Precise (and often time-consuming) trimming must be
done before application. Furthermore, transfer paper is
not as long-lasting as other decorating options.
Start-up costs are low, as only photo-editing software, a
desktop printer, and a heat press are needed. There is
virtually no learning curve.
Transfer Paper
Using a desktop color laser copier/printer or inkjet printer, full color
designs are printed onto specialized transfer papers and heat
applied to apparel or fabrics. This method is quick and inexpensive,
allowing almost instant customization and requiring limited
inventory of goods. Photo-quality images can be quickly printed and
applied to garments.
While this method offers the advantage of high-quality images, it
has some drawbacks. Standard transfer paper will not show white
images on any garment. Because most desktop printers do not have
white ink, any areas which show white on the transfer paper will
show as the garment color after application. This can be avoided by
using special paper for dark garments, though this paper is more
expensive and has a heavier feel than standard transfer paper. Also,
unless properly trimmed, most transfer papers will leave an outline
of excess coating around the image when transferred onto
garments. Precise (and often time-consuming) trimming must be
done before application. Furthermore, transfer paper is not as longlasting as other decorating options.
Start-up costs are low, as only photo-editing software, a desktop
printer, and a heat press are needed. There is virtually no learning
curve.
Heat Transfer
Material
Often used for production of letters and numbers on Tshirts and jerseys, this method involves heat application
of designs cut from vinyl, which is available in a variety of
colors, textures, and effects (i.e. reflective, glow-in-thedark, etc.). These designs can be pre-ordered from a
manufacturer or custom-cut in-house using vinyl cutting
equipment. Heat transfer material images are sturdy and
long-lasting, and can be applied easily (using a heat
press) to a number of different garments and accessories
in any quantity.
Photo-quality designs cannot be applied using this
method and each design must be individually cut and
weeded (excess vinyl removed from around the image).
Complex patterns thus can prove problematic.
Start-up costs include a heat press and supplies. For
smaller operations an inventory of pre-cut letters and
numbers may prove sufficient, but as the business
expands the need for in-house production may present
itself. Vinyl cutters can range in price from $500-$2000,
and need to be stocked with rolls of vinyl in various
colors.
Heat Transfer Material
Often used for production of letters and numbers on T-shirts and
jerseys, this method involves heat application of designs cut from
vinyl, which is available in a variety of colors, textures, and effects
(i.e. reflective, glow-in-the-dark, etc.). These designs can be preordered from a manufacturer or custom-cut in-house using vinyl
cutting equipment. Heat transfer material images are sturdy and
long-lasting, and can be applied easily (using a heat press) to a
number of different garments and accessories in any quantity.
Photo-quality designs cannot be applied using this method and each
design must be individually cut and weeded (excess vinyl removed
from around the image). Complex patterns thus can prove
problematic.
Start-up costs include a heat press and supplies. For smaller
operations an inventory of pre-cut letters and numbers may prove
sufficient, but as the business expands the need for in-house
production may present itself. Vinyl cutters can range in price from
$500-$2000, and need to be stocked with rolls of vinyl in various
colors.
Digital Printing
Digital printing describes any process which produces
long-lasting full color transfers. Extremely versatile, digital
printing allows images and graphics with fine details to be
applied to both light and dark-colored garments. Digital
printing options include:
Digital Printing
Digital printing describes any process which produces long-lasting
full color transfers. Extremely versatile, digital printing allows
images and graphics with fine details to be applied to both light and
dark-colored garments. Digital printing options include printable
heat transfer material, dye sublimation, and Direct to garment
printing.
Printable Heat Transfer Material
Combining the durability of heat transfer vinyl with the
ability to produce high-quality images, this method
involves using a printer/cutter to produce an image which
is then weeded and heat applied. Designs can be customordered from a manufacturer or produced using in-house
equipment. Great for low-quantity jobs and
personalization; durable full color images can be applied
to garments and accessories of any color.
For in-house equipment, start-up costs can be quite high
and the equipment can come with a steep learning curve.
Printable Heat Transfer Material
Combining the durability of heat transfer vinyl
with the ability to produce high-quality
images, this method involves using a
printer/cutter to produce an image which is
then weeded and heat applied. Designs can
be custom-ordered from a manufacturer or
produced using in-house equipment. Great for
low-quantity jobs and personalization;
durable full color images can be applied to garments and
accessories of any color.
For in-house equipment, start-up costs can be quite high and the
equipment can come with a steep learning curve.
Sublimation (Dye Sublimation)
Using ink printed on transfer paper and applied with heat and pressure, this
technique prints directly onto polyesters and specially-coated hard goods, such as
mugs and bags. In sublimation the design is actually dyed onto the substrate,
producing an extremely vivid and durable transfer.
Dye sublimation provides sharp, colorful images with a soft feel, allowing fabric to
stay light and breathable. Images produced with sublimation are highly
customizable, making this method great for personalization and short-run jobs.
The process can also be used on a variety of specially-coated hard goods, such as
ceramics, metal, and glass.
Because sublimation is limited to use on white or light-colored materials and
because the garment must be made of or coated with polyester, it is not an ideal
method for use on garments. Sublimated garments are produced using a dye, not
an ink, so not all printers will work well with the process, and sublimation printers
require a good deal of maintenance. In addition, inks can be expensive and
require the use of color-correction software, and direct matches to Pantone Color
Matching System (PMS) colors can be difficult.
Start-up costs for dye sublimation are fairly low. A computer, graphics software,
printer, special dye sublimation printer cartridges, and a heat press are needed,
and many of these items will already be found in a decorating shop. Depending on
the operator’s previous experience, the dye sublimation learning curve can be
quite steep.
Sublimation (Dye Sublimation)
Using ink printed on transfer paper and
applied with heat and pressure, this technique
prints directly onto polyesters and speciallycoated hard goods, such as mugs and bags.
In sublimation the design is actually dyed
onto the substrate, producing an extremely
vivid and durable transfer.
Dye sublimation provides sharp, colorful images with a soft feel,
allowing fabric to stay light and breathable. Images produced with
sublimation are highly customizable, making this method great for
personalization and short-run jobs. The process can also be used on
a variety of specially-coated hard goods, such as ceramics, metal,
and glass.
Because sublimation is limited to use on white or light-colored
materials and because the garment must be made of or coated with
polyester, it is not an ideal method for use on garments. Sublimated
garments are produced using a dye, not an ink, so not all printers
will work well with the process, and sublimation printers require a
good deal of maintenance. In addition, inks can be expensive and
require the use of color-correction software, and direct matches to
Pantone Color Matching System (PMS) colors can be difficult.
Start-up costs for dye sublimation are fairly low. A computer,
graphics software, printer, special dye sublimation printer
cartridges, and a heat press are needed, and many of these items
will already be found in a decorating shop. Depending on the
operator’s previous experience, the dye sublimation learning curve
can be quite steep.
Direct to Garment (DTG) Printing
In direct-to-garment printing, an image or logo is printed
directly onto a garment and is then cured using a heat
press or dryer. Allowing quick order fulfillment, DTG is a
good way to augment a screen-printing or embroidery
business and is great for small jobs. DTG produces
brilliant colors and, unlike screen printing, it offers the
ability to print color blends and transitions.
While it produces brilliant full-color images, DTG ink is not
opaque, so colors will differ when printed on differentcolored garments. Best for white and light-colored
garments, DTG can now be used on dark garments,
though a white background must be printed first. Not all
DTG printers offer white ink, and user-reviews of the
printability of white inks are mixed at best. And while
setup time is far less than with screen printing, most
garments will need to be pre-treated and heat pressed
before being printed.
Direct-to garment printing requires virtually no learning
curve, but equipment can be costly. Printers can cost
anywhere from $6000 to $20,000 and require daily
maintenance.
Direct to Garment (DTG) Printing
In direct-to-garment printing, an image or
logo is printed directly onto a garment and is
then cured using a heat press or dryer.
Allowing quick order fulfillment, DTG is a good
way to augment a screen-printing or
embroidery business and is great for small
jobs. DTG produces brilliant colors and, unlike
screen printing, it offers the ability to print color blends and
transitions.
While it produces brilliant full-color images, DTG ink is not opaque,
so colors will differ when printed on different-colored garments.
Best for white and light-colored garments, DTG can now be used on
dark garments, though a white background must be printed first.
Not all DTG printers offer white ink, and user-reviews of the
printability of white inks are mixed at best. And while setup time is
far less than with screen printing, most garments will need to be
pre-treated and heat pressed before being printed.
Direct to garment printing requires virtually no learning curve, but
equipment can be costly. Printers can cost anywhere from $6000 to
$20,000 and require daily maintenance.
Heat Printing Applications
With many options to choose from, heat transfers allow for endless
creativity and versatility.
Commonly used heat transfers:
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Pre-cut letters and numbers are great for
uniform or jersey personalization and can be
ordered by the pack, kit, or team set.
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Player name and number sets can be ordered
on one easy-to-apply sheet.
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Heat seal embroidered letters are a terrific
way to add an appliqué look to hats and bags.
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Inkjet/Color Laser Copier (CLC) transfers are a
great way to customize T-shirts for special
events, such as family reunions, charity
events, or private parties.
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Graphics created from heat transfer materials
allow you to create a custom look – great for
on-demand personalization.
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Screen printed (plastisol) transfers offer easyto-use, one-step application with the look and
feel of direct screen printing.
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Full color digital transfers allow quick, greatlooking application of detailed, multi-color
designs and logos, and can even include
shading and color transitions. Plus, they're
great for items that can't be screen printed or
embroidered, like nylon jackets and bags,
swimsuits, stretchable performance wear,
umbrellas, and more.
Heat Printing Benefits
Heat printing is the worlds' fastest, easiest way to customize a
garment.
Because it is simple to learn and requires a low capital investment,
more and more decorators are bringing heat printing capabilities inhouse. It's the fastest, easiest, most cost-effective way to print
samples and production proofs, and to offer quick turnaround on
custom garment orders you may currently be turning down.
The ability to offer instant, on-demand personalization of a wide
variety of items at a profit is the single greatest advantage of heat
printing. Screen printing and direct embroidery are not always costeffective or even possible for many items, such as hard goods,
performance wear, or oddly-shaped items. In these cases, heat
printing offers a quick, affordable alternative to more traditional
decorating techniques.
The ability to offer instant, on-demand personalization of a wide
variety of items at a profit is the single greatest advantage of heat
printing. Screen printing and direct embroidery are not always costeffective or even possible for many items, such as hard goods,
performance wear, or oddly-shaped items. In these cases, heat
printing offers a quick, affordable alternative to more traditional
decorating techniques.
There are numerous benefits to heat printing:
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Heat printing is easy, and there is a short learning curve.
It can be done in small spaces – a heat press will not take up valuable room in
your shop.
Start-up costs are low. Heat presses range in price from $595 to $2500.
Fast and affordable, heat printing allows for high profit margins.
It can be combined with other decorating methods to create one-of-a-kind
products.
Heat printing is great for short runs, sample production, and personalization.
Little set-up and quick turnaround allows you to offer customers great-looking
products in a short amount of time.
Designs such as over-the-shoulder or wrap-around prints can be heat pressed onto
various locations on a garment.
Designs can be printed on various types of apparel, bags, and hard goods. A
comprehensive list is available here.
What is a Heat Press?
Also known as heat press machines, heat transfer presses, and heat
transfer press machines, heat presses are available in many makes,
models, styles, and sizes.
Heat presses apply the heat and pressure needed to transfer heat
applied materials to a substrate. They usually consist of a heated
flat plate (the upper platen) and a padded lower platen, between
which the substrate is placed for design application.
What are the Different Uses For a Heat
Press?
The variety of uses for a heat press include the application of
various types of heat applied materials (listed below), curing of
Direct to Garment (DTG) printing, smoothing of embroidery after
sewing, and dye sublimation.
What Can I Decorate Using A Heat
Press?
The list of items (or substrates) that can be imprinted using a heat
press or mug heat press is constantly growing.
Typically, apparel such as T-shirts, golf shirts, and sweatshirts and
pants come to mind when one thinks of heat pressing. But with the
ever-evolving heat press industry items like caps, nylon jackets and
bags, canvas bags, spandex and neoprene garments, and even
coffee mugs can be customized using heat applied material. Below
is an extensive list of heat press ideas.
Clothing
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T-Shirts (with and without
pockets, full front/back, left chest
and sleeves)
Hoodies (non-split front, split front
and zippered)
Sweatshirts & Pants
Tank Tops
Vests
Fleece Garments
Performance Wear (compression
garments)
Swimsuits
Swimsuit Cover-Ups
Neoprene Jackets
Polyester Jackets
Nylon Jackets
Jean Jackets
Jeans
Correctional Facility Uniforms
Promotional Products
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Padfolio/Portfolio (leather,
nylon, fabric, zippered)
Memo Books
Backpacks
Umbrellas
Wallets
Can Koozies
Bottle Koozies
Wine Koozies
Wine Bags
Lunch Bags
Insulated Bags
Brief Cases
Laptop Bags
Laptop Sleeves
USB Pouches
Messenger Bags
Drawstring Sport Packs
Bank Bags
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Aprons
Onesies
Socks
Shorts
Underwear
Pajamas
Band Uniforms
Shoes
Flip-Flops
Caps (baseball, visors, sunhat,
skull cap, beanie)
Fishing Vests
Belts (Leather, Fabric)
Boots
Mittens/Gloves
Diaper Covers
Neckties
Scrubs
Military Uniforms
Suspenders
Corporate ID Wear (Polos, dress
shirts, oxfords)
Snow Pants
Snowmobile Gear
Lab Coats
Bathrobes
Baby Bibs
Leotards
Safety Wear (shirts, vests,
jackets)
Yoga Pants
Leggings
Miscellaneous
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Ribbons (for hair & Christmas
trees)
Storage Bins & Boxes
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Luggage Tags
Business Card Holders
Golf Bags
Golf Gloves
Golf Tee Holder
Tea Towels
Flags
Burgees
Sunglasses
Fanny Pack
Cell Phone Holders
Key Fobs
Mouse Pads
Magnets
Book Marks
Lanyards
Polypropylene Bags
Stadium Chairs
Beach Chairs
Directors Chairs
Travel Folding Chairs
Bean Bag Chairs
Bowling Ball Bags
Bowling Towels
Neck Wallet
Neck Badge Holders
Mouse Pads
Coasters
Cloth Grocery Bags
Pet Apparel and Accessories
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Pet Coats
Pet Rain Coats
Pet Shirts
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Boxing Gloves
Baby Blankets
Cloth Photo Frames
Bandanas
Head Bands
Wristbands
Lamp Shades
Throw Pillows
Leather Bracelets
Slip Covers
Tents
Sleeping Bags
Curtains
Toilet Seat Covers
Towels
Wheelchairs and Accessories
(bags, seat covers)
Diaper Bags
Purses
Christmas Tree Skirts
Cloth Napkins
Cloth Banners
Guitar Straps
Stuffed Animals
Dish Towels
Table Cloth
Stadium Blankets
Pageant Sashes
Cloth Awnings
Hammocks
Musical Instrument Bags
Tennis Racket Covers
Bat Bags
Golf Flags
Doll Clothes
Doll Bedding
Bedding Sheets
Pillow Cases
Tote Bags
Gardening Caddies
Garment Bags
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Pet Dresses
Pet Pajamas
Pet Beds
Pet Shelters
Pet Bandanas
Pet Foot Covers (shoes)
Dog Back Packs
Collars
Harnesses
Leashes
Soft -Sided Bowls
Bags
Doggie Potty Pants
Birdcage Covers
Horse Blankets
Horse Tail Bags
Horse Mane Covers
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Round Duffle Bags
Stool Covers
Floor Mats
Costumes
Fans
Clothing Tags