Heat Transfer Vinyl & Film

Your Stop for Name Brand Heat Transfer Vinyl

Heat Transfer Vinyl is a great way to customize your shirts, jerseys, and many other forms of apparel. You can print small runs that include names, logos, numbers or text with transfer vinyl.

Trying to print custom names, logos or numbers on jerseys has gotten even easier with heat transfer vinyl. The traditional way of using standard silk screening would take multiple images with individual films, screens and very careful printing. Skip the lengthy process, shop heat transfer vinyl to save mounds of time and money!

Shop Our Selection of Heat Transfer Vinyl Brands:

Why Garston for Heat Transfer Vinyl & Transfer Film

affordable pricing

Affordable Prices

Garston has always prided itself on offering affordable products with high-quality.

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Customer Satisfaction

We have over a hundred products involving heat transfer vinyl. Have questions about them? We have answers!

screen printing supplies

Name Brand Products

Having a Screen Printing business can be expensive. That’s why we price our products at a low, affordable rate. We also supply most of our products in bulk, saving you more in the long-run. Can’t find what you need? Reach out to us!

Shop Our Selection of Individual Heat Transfer Vinyl:

  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 004 Gold Heat Transfer Film – 20 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 005 Blue Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 10 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 005 Blue Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 006 Yellow Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 007 Silver Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 011 Dark Blue Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 012 Burgundy Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 012 Burgundy Heat Transfer Film – 15in X 10 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 018 Olympic Blue Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 023 Deep Red Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 10 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 023 Deep Red Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 025 Sunflower Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 028 Dove Gray Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 036 Light Green Heat Transfer Film – 20 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 048 Camel Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 056 Hot Pink Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 060 Cardinal Red Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 074 Royal Purple Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 10 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 074 Royal Purple Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 074 Royal Purple Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 50 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 076 Magenta Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 106 Medium Green Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 108 Peacock Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 133 Tangerine Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 10 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 133 Tangerine Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 170 Dark Forest Green Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 182 Sun Yellow Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 190 Cool Water Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 247 Vibrant Green Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 253 Lilac Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 257 Lime Green Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 260 Desert Taupe Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 260 Desert Taupe Heat Transfer Film 15 in X 10 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 268 Fireworks Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 280 Light Pink Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 10 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 280 Light Pink Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Premium Opaque 001 Red Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 10 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Premium Opaque 001 Red Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Premium Opaque 002 White Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 10 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Premium Opaque 002 White Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 25 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Premium Opaque 002 White Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Premium Opaque 003 Black Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 10 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Premium Opaque 003 Black Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 25 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Premium Opaque 003 Black Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Premium Opaque 005 Blue Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 10 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Premium Opaque 005 Blue Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Print Mask, High-Tack Adhesive 049 Matte White Heat Transfer Film – 29.5 in X 50 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Print Mask, High-Tack Adhesive 049 Matte White Heat Transfer Film – 54 in X 25 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Print Mask, High-Tack Adhesive 049 Matte White Heat Transfer Film – 54 in X 50 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Print PVC 000 Clear (Matte) Heat Transfer Film – 29.5 in X 10 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Print Ultra Flexible Polyurethane 002 Gloss White Heat Transfer Film – 29.5 in X 10 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Print Ultra Flexible Polyurethane 049 Matte White Heat Transfer Film – 20 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Print Ultra Flexible Polyurethane 049 Matte White Heat Transfer Film – 29.5 in X 10 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Reflective 003 Black Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Reflective 007 Silver Heat Transfer Film – 20 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Opaque 004 Gold Heat Transfer Film – 15 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Print 002 White PVC Heat Transfer Film – 29.5 in X 10 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Print 002 White PVC Heat Transfer Film – 54 in X 5 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Print 002 White PVC Heat Transfer Film – 54 in X 50 yd
  • FDC Thermal Advantage Print 002 White PVCHeat Transfer Film – 54 in X 10 yd

Common Types of Heat Transfer Vinyl

There are plenty of different options when it comes to heat transfer vinyl, but with such a wide selection, it can hard to narrow down which is the best option for your project. The best way to dive in, is to look at the most common types and consider which matches your application.

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Flock Heat Transfer
Vinyl

For vinyl that results in a soft-touch almost suede-like, you can use flock heat transfer vinyl. You’ll get the same raised look as embroidery while still having a quality vinyl. You can use this type of vinyl with polyester and cotton.

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Glitter Heat Transfer Vinyl

Have a print job that needs a little sparkle? Turn to glitter heat transfer vinyl that includes smooth, textured as well as stretchable glitters. You can apply it to cotton, and polyester.

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Glossy Heat Transfer Vinyl

Instead of going with a standard vinyl that results in a matte finish, you have the option of choosing a glossy heat transfer vinyl. This vinyl can be used with polyester blends.

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Standard Heat Transfer Vinyl

For those just starting out, it’s your best option to start with a standard heat transfer vinyl. This is a great option for classic designs, seeing that it applies to almost all cotton or polyester blends.

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Stretchable Heat Transfer Vinyl

You may come across materials that will need the ability to stretch (like uncoated polyester workout gear) and won’t crack or peel your design. That’s where stretchable heat transfer vinyl comes into play!

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Universal Heat Transfer Vinyl

For a vinyl that will adhere to most materials, universal heat transfer vinyl is your first stop. This can include cotton, polyester, spandex and even genuine leather! The best way apply this vinyl is at a lower temperature.

Applying Heat Transfer Vinyl With a Heat Press

For small projects, a flat iron would do the trick, but for more serious, seasoned screen printers, it’s best to use a heat press for better production levels. This will also ensure that your vinyl is thoroughly and evenly applied.

Finding the Right Heat Press for the Job

There are many heat presses to choose from that can span from just a few hundred dollars to thousands. It all depends on how serious you are with your equipment or how advanced you want it to be. Either way, every heat press has the same primary function – helping to apply a specific amount of heat in a downward direction.

Have a Reliable Work Space

Starting the process includes finding the perfect workspace. If you have a shop, set up your press in a cleared area, making sure to use a sturdy press or placing your table-top press on a durable table. You’ll need to make sure that whatever placement you use can withstand the weight of your equipment as well as the heat that results from it.

heat-press-2
heat press opening

Use the Right Amount of Pressure

Once you find the perfect spot for your heat press, you can feel free to plug in your machine, but don’t turn it on just yet. You need to make sure that you’re applying the right pressure to get your desired results.

If you don’t use enough pressure, your heat transfer vinyl won’t attach to your material properly. If you apply too much pressure, you could end up burning or ruining your intended material. You’ll need to determine the best level of heat to use, this can be done through trial and error with a close eye on your heat press.

Place the Heat Transfer Vinyl on The Press

When you’ve found the perfect heat pressure, you can place your material and heat transfer vinyl underneath your press. You can do this two ways:

  • Place the HTV on the t-shirt (or whatever garment you are using) while the t-shirt is on the press. This method can ensure that you haven’t moved the vinyl. All you have to do is lower your heat press lid and get to work.

Another method can include placing your t-shirt on another surface instead of the heat press. Then place the HTV on the substrate, and then transfer it to your heat press. You can then add a teflon sheet to protect not only your print but your heat press as well.

Apply the Heat

Now that you’re substrate, HTV and teflon sheet are in place, all you have to do is wait until your machine reaches the right temperature. Then you can lower and lock your lid and wait the proper amount of time.

Once you’ve reached your desire temperature and time frame, you can unlock the lid and open up your press. You’ll need to wait for the material to cool before you peel off the teflon and remove your t-shirt or garment from the printer. After you peel, you’ll have a fantastic, evenly applied design!

heat transfer vinyl print

Heat Transfer Vinyl FAQ

What Is Heat Transfer Vinyl?

Heat transfer vinyl also known as HTV or t-shirt vinyl is a specialized type of vinyl that can be applied to fabric. The adhesive on the vinyl becomes activated when heat is used. Available in rolls, sheets or packs, heat transfer vinyl will have a back and front you need to be aware of.

The front is shiny, and will be the spot you peel off when you’re ironing your project. The back is more matted, and will be cut when you’re creating your design.

What Temperature Do I Use With Heat Transfer Vinyl?

The heat you use will depending on which vinyl type you’re using. For a general overview, you can use these measurements:

  • Smooth HTV: Press time will include 10-15 minutes with a temperature of around 300-315 °F
  • Glitter HTV: Press time will be around 10-15 minutes and a temperature of around 300-315°F
  • Reflective HTV: This type of HTV will need to be on the press for around 30-45 minutes and around 330-345°F
  • Flock HTV: Keep this type of HTV on the press for around 10-15 minutes at a temperature of around 300-315°F

Should I Pre-wash My T-shirt Before Using a Heat Transfer Vinyl? 

It’s not recommended to wash any of the materials you intend to use before applying HTV and using a press. This can cause a variety of different problems to occur when you’re applying the HTV. You should also not iron or apply a heat press to remove moisture or wrinkles.

How Can I Wash a Shirt or Garment with HTV?

First off, you shouldn’t wash your material with  HTV for at least 24 hours after printing. You will need to let your HTV cure, seeing that the adhesive on HTV is only activated by heat. Skipping any of these steps and washing your shirt directly after printing or not in the allotted time will result in cracking or peeling.

Other tips to consider:

  • You should never dry clean HTV. The chemicals used in dry cleaning can ruin your new print
  • In the cleaning process, use mild detergent. Avoid using any bleach or fabric softeners to keep your vinyl vibrant.
  • Never directly iron on a heat transfer vinyl, this will only cause your HTV to melt or your adhesive to burn.

What Material Can I Print on With Heat Transfer Vinyl?

You can use numerous apparel or garments when using heat transfer vinyl. If the material can withstand heat like cotton, polyester or moisture-wick material, you can definitely apply HTV to it.

How Can I Remove Heat Transfer Vinyl?

In the event that you want to remove vinyl, you can either use a razor blade or squeegee by applying with pressure. Sometimes you need stronger chemicals like acetone, which should be applied to the  back of the shirt and design. You can also try reheating the vinyl, then using tweezers to directly remove the design.

Garston, Sign Screen & Digital

Honest, Fair Prices On All Heat Transfer Vinyl

Utilizing heat transfer vinyl is a popular choice for many screen printers. To help out a large portion of our customer base, we provide the best name brand heat transfer vinyl in the screen printing industry. Have questions? Reach out to us to discuss them, or place your order today! 860-289-3040