When specializing in fabric customization, a keen eye for textures and the various effects offered by each type of heat transfer vinyl is paramount. To understand flocked HTV, it is essential to have a basic understanding of general HTV and its applications. Heat transfer vinyl is a type of material used to transfer designs on fabrics and other surfaces using pressure and heat. There are different types of HTV, including flocked, standard, holographic, and glitter HTV. 

This article zooms in on flocked HTV to help you understand its special properties, uses, and the main differences with other HTVs.

Flocked HTV is a special type of vinyl differentiated by its soft, fuzzy, and velvet texture. It pops up when heated, making it feel like suede. This aspect renders it the best way to add thickness and dimension to designs. It’s almost similar to standard vinyl, save for the thickness and texture. 

The 3D velvety texture is caused by the tiny fibres attached to its surface. The materials used in the production of flocked HTV make it relatively expensive, although it’s worth the investment given the unique properties.

Flocked HTV works best on polyester, cotton, and polymer-based surfaces. It can also be applied to wood and glass, although it adheres best to porous surfaces. Just like any other HTV, it can’t be applied to materials with low heat tolerance, like nylons, silk, and leather, as they might melt or warp. 

Some brands allow for layering, with specific guidelines, but most don’t (refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines). If applied and washed correctly, flocked HTV is durable, although the fuzzy texture slightly softens over time.

Flocked HTV is easy to set apart from other HTV types using these special characteristics:

Flocked HTV is versatile. As a rule of thumb, the material should be able to withstand heat without warping or burning. Some ideal materials are:

The application process; cutting, weeding and pressing it to the base material, is similar to every other HTV application. However, due to its thick, textured and raised surface, there are some notable differences.

Start by preparing the design and mirroring it in the design software, just as you would with any other HTV designs. 

Place the vinyl on a cutting mat, with its shiny side facing down, and the textured surface facing up. Secure it on a mat, especially around the edges before you start cutting so that it doesn’t lift while cutting.

The settings might vary based on the HTV brand.

Use a deep blade and higher pressure setting than you would for a regular HTV, cut through the flocked vinyl without slicing through the carrier sheet. Then carefully weed out the excess vinyl around the design using a weeding tool. The thicker texture makes it easier to weed as the edges are well-defined.

Always start with a test cut to prevent wasting the expensive material.

For flocked iron to adhere correctly, it requires consistent heat and pressure. Start by preheating the iron-on to the cotton or linen setting, 320°F-340°F, depending on the material you are pressing. You will need slightly higher heat and pressure compared to when pressing regular vinyl. 

Remember to turn off the steam as moisture reduces the HTV’s tack. Preheat the fabric to remove creases, then moisturize it to help soften the adhesive. Cover it with parchment paper to protect it from excessive heat.

Firmly press for up to 20 seconds, which is slightly longer than the regular HTV pressing time. Avoid moving or sliding the iron-on transfer down, as this may result in uneven adhesion or distortion of the design. Press in sections until the entire design is covered.

Place the garment and HTV design on the heat press plate and cover it using a protective sheet. 

Set the pressure to medium and the temperature to 320°F-340°F, and press for 20 seconds. The pressure should be enough to adhere the fiber to the fabric without crushing the vinyl.

Flocked HTV usually requires a warm peel, so don’t wait too long before peeling the carrier sheet. If any areas have lifted or show incomplete adhesion, cover it again and press for an additional 10 seconds.

The key differences are in the texture, applications, and appearance.

With all the important basics about flocked HTV laid out, these are ways to best use it for high-quality results and longer durability.