HTV vinyl- 10 General tips for working with heat transfer vinyl

Tip #1 Be sure to place the shiny side of the HTV down on the cutting mat before you cut. **exception: for patterned HTV place it pattern up**

Tip #2 For designs that go one way like words and phrases for statement shirts, be sure to mirror the image. For those without a cutting machine, cut out the design with scissors.

Tip #3 If applying HTV on T-shirts, be sure to pre-press. Pre-pressing fabric will remove wrinkles, moisture, and allows for a perfect HTV transfer.

Tip #4 When using a heat press machine, use teflon sheets or parchment paper. The teflon sheets will protect the t-shirt, the transfer, and the platen. They should be placed on the top platen of the heat press and between the tshirt and transfer.

**DO NOT PUT YOUR IRON DIRECTLY ON VINYL.**

Tip #5 If applying HTV on a canvas fabric, use a heat press. On this type of fabric, pressure is very important. Press the HTV firmly.

Tip #7 When using a flat iron, cover the HTV with a thin piece of fabric before or parchment paper before you iron it on for about 30-60 seconds. Check to see if the HTV sheet has adhered. If not, repeat the process.

Tip #8 For large areas, press hot iron in sections. DO NOT SLIDE THE IRON. It is best to press, lift, and press again.

Tip #9 When applying HTV on something that will be washed, like shirts, tote bags, or pillow cases. Prewash and preshrink the garment first. This is a must so that the HTV will stick properly and puckering will be avoided.

Tip #10 After applying HTV to anything let them item sit untouched/ unworn for 2 days to let the vinyl cure (adhere) to the item it has been applied to.