A specialized transfer medium allows designs and images to be printed onto fabric using a standard inkjet or laser printer and a household iron or heat press. This material typically consists of a thin, coated sheet that, when heated, releases the printed image onto the target textile surface. For instance, custom t-shirts, bags, and other fabric-based items can be personalized using this method.
This technique provides a cost-effective and accessible means of creating customized apparel and accessories. Historically, textile decoration relied on more complex and expensive processes like screen printing. The availability of this user-friendly alternative has democratized the creation of personalized fabric goods, enabling individuals and small businesses to produce unique items on demand and with minimal investment. It streamlines the process of transferring an image from a digital source to a physical fabric product.
The subsequent sections will detail the types of substrates suitable for image transfer, the optimal printing and application techniques to ensure durable and vibrant results, and the factors influencing the longevity of the transferred design after repeated washing and wear.