Heat Transfer Vinyl

FAQ

Do you mirror heat transfer vinyl

Yes, you ALWAYS need to mirror heat transfer vinyl. This is the most common mistake beginners make.
Why mirroring is essential: HTV is applied with the shiny carrier sheet facing up. When you cut the design, it cuts through the vinyl but not the carrier. The carrier sheet holds your design together so you can transfer it onto fabric.
The mirror rule: Your design must be cut in reverse (mirror image) so that when you flip it over for application, it reads correctly on your garment.
Exception: If your design is completely symmetrical (like a circle or centered text), mirroring isn't visually noticeable, but it's still good practice to mirror everything.
Quick tip: Always check your software's "mirror" or "reverse" setting before cutting. If your design looks backwards on your screen with text reading right-to-left, you're doing it correctly. After pressing and peeling the carrier sheet, your design will appear correctly on your fabric!

How to cut heat transfer vinyl

1. Design Setup: Create your design in editing software. Remember to mirror/reverse the image before cutting since HTV is applied facing down.
2. Load Material: Place the vinyl shiny carrier side down on your cutting mat (for Cricut) or shiny side up (for Silhouette). Ensure it lies flat without bubbles.
3. Adjust Settings: Select the appropriate material setting for your vinyl type. Use a brand-new blade for clean cuts. Common settings: "Iron-On" or "Heat Transfer" with standard pressure.
4. Test Cut: Perform a small test cut first. The blade should cut through the vinyl layer but NOT through the clear carrier sheet.
5. Weed: After cutting, remove excess vinyl from around your design, leaving only your design on the carrier sheet.
Always refer to your specific machine and vinyl brand guidelines for best results!

How to remove heat transfer vinyl

Reheat Method: Apply heat (305°F/150°C) for 10-15 seconds to soften the adhesive. Gently peel the vinyl away with tweezers or your fingers while warm.
For Stubborn Areas: Reheat and use rubbing alcohol or adhesive remover on the residue. Scrape gently with a plastic tool.
For delicate fabrics: Place a paper towel over the design, apply heat, and the vinyl will stick to the paper towel as you peel.
Note: Some vinyl may leave shadow marks or adhesive residue that's difficult to completely remove from fabric.

How to use heat transfer vinyl

Here's how to use heat transfer vinyl (HTV) in 5 simple steps:
1. Design & Cut: Create your design in mirror image. Weed away excess vinyl from around your design.
2. Position: Place your garment on a heat press or ironing board. Preheat the fabric for 2-3 seconds to remove moisture.
3. Apply Heat: Position the vinyl (shiny carrier sheet up) and press firmly. Use 305°F (150°C) for 10-15 seconds with medium pressure.
4. Peel: Let it cool slightly, then peel the carrier sheet. Hot peel stretches some vinyls, while cold peel works better for others.
5. Finish: Cover with a teflon sheet and press again for 5 seconds to set. Wait 24 hours before washing inside out.
Remember to always test on a scrap piece first!

What is this Heat Transfer Vinyl used for?

Our Iron-On Vinyl is widely used for shirts, tote bags, sportswear, aprons, hats, and pillows. HTVRONT Iron-On Vinyl will make you stand out from the crowd! Heat Transfer Vinyl Rolls are suitable for athletic mesh fabrics, cotton, polyester, and cotton blend, lycra/spandex, textiles, etc.

Can We Wash And Dry This Iron-on Vinyl?

Yes, our HTV is pretty sticky; they adhere to the fabric seamlessly and have held up well in the wash without fading, peeling, and cracking. Home launder-ometer test: 40 degrees, more than 50 times, 30 min/time. Your designs of our Heat Transfer Vinyl will keep the same color and won't come off after repeated washing cycles.

HTVRONT reserves final interpretation rights for this event.

Related Collections

Puff HTV

Patterned HTV

Sublimation HTV

Tools & Accessories

Heat Presses

Blog

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HTVRONT Vinyl Cutting & Heat Transfer Official Settings Guide (2025 Edition)

How To Layer Heat Transfer Vinyl(HTV)

The Ultimate Guide to Heat Transfer Vinyl Decal Sizing for Shirts

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