Iron-on transfers are labels and images that can be ironed onto fabric. In the UK iron on transfers are very popular with people who customise their clothing with them. Iron on transfers in the Uk are also known as heat transfers.
However they are used for all kinds of things like labels, decals, crafts, and more. Custom iron on transfers UK is searched by individual people wanting to personalise their clothing and t-shirts. But custom iron on transfers UK is also searched by large companies maybe wanting to personalise workwear or even sports clubs wanting to produce their logo or a design in a format that they can apply to their clothing. Custom iron on transfers are known as customised through the individual design of them. But also the shape of them gives that customisation, so you are not limited to your design being cut out into an oblong. Now because of the customisation the design can be cut around its outline even if it forms an odd shape.
The iron on transfers are so popular because they can be removed by simply peeling them off without any damage to the surface. They are also reusable and easy to apply.
In this post we are referring to iron on transfers for the DIY market and not the transfers sold in bulk by organisations like ourselves.
Using iron-on transfers to update your clothing is a terrific idea. They can be used on any material and don’t require sewing. They can also be used as a substitute for decorative pins on craft projects.
What’s the Process for an Iron on Transfer?
A thin, paper-like material coated with a liquid adhesive is used to create iron-on transfers. Iron powder is combined with the liquid sealant to create a liquid that is applied to the paper layer’s reverse side.
During the pressing process, the liquid joins the fabric to the adhesive layer.
If you are looking for an instant way to update some clothing, iron-on transfers are the answer.
They can be made into any shape or pattern that you want, including custom pieces. You just print them onto your fabric, then press it with an iron or use a heat press.
The DIY iron on transfer can end up looking like it came from a professional because the liquid adhesive bonds the two layers together.
What are the Types of Iron on Transfers?
Iron on Labels
Plastic labels designed for ironing onto fabric are known as iron-on labels. Typically, the label is paper-backed and constructed of polyester so that it may be ironed on.
Either melting the label to the fabric or melting it with an iron is required for the label to stick to the fabric. It is more difficult to remove the label when it is slid on, though. Typically, labels are used to identify clothing.
Iron on Fabric
An iron on fabric is one that can be rapidly and simply pressed onto clothing. Since they can all be pressed onto fabric, cotton, polyester, or fleece are often used materials for iron-on fabric.
Iron on Appliqués
Iron on appliqué is a type of decal used to decorate clothing. The pattern is printed on a sticky sheet with an iron-friendly coating on one side. The sheet is then put on the fabric, where the heat from the iron causes it to stick to the fabric.
What are the Types of Iron on Transfer Inks?
The number of transferable colours and the quantity of presser foot heat settings are used to categorise iron-on transfer inks.
Single Colour Iron on Transfer Inks
Single-colour iron on transfer inks make it simple to make temporary or long-lasting graphics on garments. These inks are designed to be heated. Using a household iron, the ink is applied for around 3 minutes at a temperature of around 200 degrees Celsius.
Multicolour Iron on Transfer Inks
Iron on transfer inks are available in various colours. Multicolour iron-on transfer inks are a recent advancement in iron-on transfer ink technology, which has been available for many years. These inks can produce a wide variety of highly customised designs for everything from T-shirts to purses and are simple to print onto cloth.
The Pro’s of Iron on Transfers
- They are affordable.
- They are available in different sizes and shapes if you are prepared to spend extra time cutting them tom shape.
- Because the transfer substance is so thin, it can be applied to a variety of surfaces without showing through.
- They don’t need any additional tools or materials, making them simple to use.
- Without affecting the underlying fabric, iron-on transfers are simple to take off or replace with fresh ones.
- A heat press machine is known to apply them for an even longer lasting time.
- Because iron-on transfer paper is waterproof, it is simple to wipe the surface.
- On the transfer’s surface, composite materials can be used without letting through.
- Iron-on transfers outlast other techniques in terms of durability.
The Cons of Iron on Transfers
- The final colour depends on the quality of inks used.
- If iron-on transfers are not pre-cleaned, the ink will sometimes transfer unevenly.
- They are only good for one off badges and transfers, the process for DIY transfers means it takes too long to print amounts over 2.
How to Apply Iron on Transfers – DIY Tips
- Best to use dark coloured fabric/garments.
- Put the printer into draft mode.
- Use a thin layer of the garment fabric paper (not the shiny side).
- Place your iron on the shiny side of the fabric.
- Set the iron to a medium heat setting and move in a circular motion.
- Apply steadily; the garment must not be turned fabric-side down during application.
Are iron on transfers washable?
Yes, you can wash iron-on transfers.
They are a terrific method to personalise your clothing, sportswear and other merchandise. They are typically simple to apply. However you should wash it with cold water and light soap to be extra cautious.
Additionally, you should refrain from using abrasive cleaners or detergents because they could harm the transfer.
DIY iron on transfers are good for personalising clothing but commercially to customise clothing in large quantities they need to be printed by a specialist transfer printers like ourselves.
This is particularly the case of you have a specific shape required for your custom iron on transfer.