Heat Transfer Printing
Heat transfer printing bridges the gap between screen printing and full-colour digital output. It's a versatile, durable solution that excels with complex, multi-colour designs and is ideal for small to medium runs where screen printing setup costs are prohibitive.
How Heat Transfer Works
Versatile. Vibrant. Durable.
Heat transfer printing uses precision heat and pressure to permanently bond your design to the fabric. Here's everything you need to know.
Digital Design Output
Your design is first printed onto a specialist transfer paper or film using high-resolution digital printers with vibrant, fade-resistant inks. This stage allows for incredibly complex, full-colour artwork, gradients, photographs, fine detail, and unlimited colours are all possible without the setup costs associated with screen printing.
Heat Press Application
The printed transfer is placed onto the garment and a heat press applies precise temperature (typically 150–180°C) and pressure for a set dwell time. This permanently bonds the transfer to the fabric fibres. The result is a smooth, vibrant design that adheres closely to the garment surface. Different transfer types, including CAD-cut vinyl, digital transfers, and flock transfers allow for a variety of finishes.
Durable & Washfast Results
Modern heat transfers are engineered to withstand repeated washing without cracking, peeling, or fading. We use premium transfer products from market-leading suppliers to ensure the best possible durability. Transfers are typically wash-rated to 40°C and above, suitable for workwear that goes through regular industrial laundering.
When to Choose Heat Transfer
Heat transfer is the ideal choice when you need full-colour photographic artwork, when quantities are too small to justify screen printing setup costs, when you need names and numbers applied (e.g., sports kits), or when you want a specific finish such as a metallic, glitter, or flock effect that other methods can't achieve.
Heat Transfer FAQs
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