T-Shirt Transfer Paper

Using iron-on t-shirt transfer paper is a process that allows you to transfer a design from a special type of paper to a t-shirt with the heat from an iron. Here's a general guide on how to use it:

1. Print Your Design:

   • Use an inkjet printer to print your design onto the transfer paper. Ensure your design is mirrored if the paper brand requires it, so it appears correctly when transferred.

2. Prepare the Ironing Surface:

   • Find a hard, flat surface that can withstand heat. An ironing board is not ideal as it's too soft and will not provide the necessary even pressure.

3. Prepare the T-Shirt:

   • Iron the t-shirt first to remove any wrinkles and moisture, ensuring a smooth surface for the transfer.

4. Place the Transfer Paper:

   • Once the t-shirt is prepped, place the transfer paper onto the t-shirt with the printed image facing down.

5. Iron the Transfer Paper:

   • Preheat the iron to the highest setting suitable for your t-shirt fabric (usually a "cotton" setting), and make sure the steam setting is off.
   • Press the iron down onto the transfer paper and move it slowly over the entire image. Apply firm pressure evenly, paying particular attention to the edges of the image.
   • Follow the specific time recommendations provided by the transfer paper's instructions.

6. Peel Off the Paper:

   • After ironing, let the transfer cool down before peeling off the backing paper. Depending on the type of transfer paper, you may need to peel it while it’s hot (hot peel) or once it's cooled (cold peel).

7. Final Touches:

   • Once the backing is removed, you might want to iron the design once more with protective parchment paper on top of it to ensure it's fully secured to the fabric.

Difference Between Transfer Paper for Light and Dark Fabrics:

• For Light Fabrics: This transfer paper is transparent. Any white in your design will be clear, showing the color of the shirt through the design. It’s best used on white or very light-colored fabrics.

• For Dark Fabrics: This paper is opaque and has a white backing. It allows for the transfer of images onto dark fabrics, and the white in the design will appear white on the shirt. You do not need to mirror your image when printing on this type of paper.

Always remember to check the instructions that come with your specific brand of transfer paper, as the process may vary slightly. It's also a good idea to wash the t-shirt inside out on a gentle cycle to maintain the transferred image.