Iron on transfers get a bad reputation for not coming out that great once they’ve been applied, but there are some tips and tricks that are important to know to make your transfer look its very best. First, make sure you’ve chosen the right iron on for your shirt. Some transfers are for light colors such as white, pastels, and light grays, while other transfers are for darker colors such as black, blue, and charcoal gray.
1. You will need a hard, flat, heat resistant surface – do not use an ironing board! Granite, terrazzo, and other stone countertops work great as well as ½” or ¼” cement boards that can be purchased at art supply or home improvement stores. In addition, you can use a wooden cutting board or formica countertop too.
2. Lay out the work area with your chosen ironing surface and these following materials:
- Iron
- Muslin cloth
- Piece of cardboard slightly larger than the transfer – to prevent you from sticking the front of the garment to the back with the transfer.
3. Lay out the garment and iron out the wrinkles in the area where you will place the transfer with the iron. Use steam if you have to, but be sure to finish with dry ironing; you need the fabric to be completely dry.
4. If the transfer has not been trimmed, you will need to do this yourself; however, most iron on transfers already come pre-trimmed.
5. Follow the corresponding package directions for applying to darker or lighter fabrics.
6. Underneath the area where the transfer will go, place the cardboard inside the garment and then position the transfer.
7. With the iron turned on the hottest setting – do not use steam – and move the iron in a circular motion from the outer edge in, pressing firmly. Keep doing this for about three minutes.
8. Turn off the iron, let the transfer cool, and then peel off the backing from the outer edges in.
Remember, the better the quality of the iron on transfer, the better the garment will look. So be sure to choose a professional for the best quality!
