How To Use Your Heat Press?

Using a t-shirt heat press machine in your business is an affordable and easily accessible way to create custom apparel for customers.

Whether you’re thinking of adding a heat press to your existing business or starting your own custom apparel business, here’s an easy-to-follow guide on how to use your t-shirt heat press.

How To Use Your Heat Press?

1.Turn it on. Heat presses are often compatible with a standard house electrical socket. No need for an adapter or different outlet. When the t-shirt heat press arrives, just plug it in and turn it on.

2.Set temperature. Adjust the thermostat setting to your desired temperature.

3.Set the timer. Depending on your machine, the type of transfer, and the blank this can be anywhere from 45 seconds to 3 minutes.

4.Open the press. Then, set your t-shirt down on the side you’re placing the design on facing up.

5.Preheat your garment. This is sometimes an optional step. It’s used to remove any excess moisture or creases from the shirt. Some shirts come with a pre-treatment wash, and heating up the garment with the t-shirt heat press helps adhesion.

6.Place transfer. Place the transfer on the shirt facing down. You can use a combination of t-squares, rulers, or custom cut templates to make sure each design is placed correctly.

7.Close press. Ensure the press locks firmly in place. Some models use air pressure to help close and open the t-shirt heat press. Your hands are free to do other things.

8.Start timer. Your timer may start automatically (if you’re using the Hotronix press).

9.Open the press. Once the timer goes off, open the t-shirt heat press and peel the transfer paper from your shirt.

T-Shirt Heat Press Tips And Tricks

👉Allow 24 hours for the t-shirt to dry before washing.

👉If the transfer paper does not come off easily, re-press for another 5-10 seconds.

👉To make sure the t-shirt is loaded straight on the machine, check that the tag is aligned with the back of the t-shirt heat press.

👉Always test print. You can often use a regular sheet of paper to test press your design. Or buy scrap fabrics from the store. Testing ensures that the colors print correctly and gives you a good idea of how the final product will look.

👉Practice with different blanks and transfers. You should be comfortable with your t-shirt heat press to ensure no mistakes once you start filling customer orders.