Learn the Basics of Heat Printing

What is heat printing?

Heat printing, also known as heat transfer printing, is the process of applying heat-applied materials to various items (i.e., substrates) with a heat press. Heat-applied materials contain a heat-sensitive adhesive on one side; when heat is applied by a heat press to the material, the material adheres to the substrate to which it is being applied. The end result is a decorated garment.

Heat printing opportunities.

Decorating with a heat press is an easy, cost-effective way to enter the garment decoration industry. It provides the opportunity to personalize a wide variety of items.

It all starts with a heat press.

Three key components to consider when decorating with a heat press are: time, temperature, and pressure. Every heat transfer material has its own heat printing instructions.

• Time: The amount of time, in seconds, that heat must be applied to the design/garment.
• Temperature: The optimal degree at which the design will adhere to the garment.
• Pressure: The amount of downward force needed when heat applying.

Choosing the right heat press.

How do you know which type of heat press is right for your business? There are several key factors to consider:

• Space: How much space do you have in your work area?
• Production: How much will you use the heat press?
• Size: What type of garments are you decorating?
• Experience: How much experience do you have working with heat presses?
• Cost: How much do you want to invest in your heat press equipment?