Learn how to apply Digital Hybrid transfers, including how to check your temperature and pressure!
Applying our Digital Hybrid heat transfers is quick and easy. All you need is a commercial heat press (or a hand-iron! read on for more info on that), 613 Originals transfers, and a product to apply them on! We recommend a post-press for best results. Follow the steps and instructions below to achieve perfect results on your next application!
Getting Ready in 3, 2, 1..
3. First, Check Your Temperature & Pressure
It's important to calibrate your press to the proper temperature and pressure required for quality results. For checking temperature, we recommend using a quality Infrared (IR) Temperature Gun (Contactless) to ensure your heat press is heating evenly and accurately. Extra credit for doing this every time you start a new project.
When it comes to quality heat pressed garments, pressure is (almost) everything. Not using enough pressure is the most common cause for any application issues we see. Make sure your pressure is set correctly on your machine - refer to your press' manual for how to do this correctly.
2. Remove Teflon Sheets*, Covers or Pillows - You Don't Need Them!
We don't recommend using teflon sheets*, covers, or pillows with any of our Digital Hybrid heat transfers, as they can compromise the amount of heat getting to the transfer. Less heat means application issues - totally uncool.
*We do love using parchment paper to cover the transfer only to reduce static so that the film doesn't grip the platen during application.
1. Test Before Your Press
We recommend testing a sample transfer on the intended fabric before full production, especially when using a newer transfer formula or fabric. This quick sample will ensure you're ready to go. Just be sure to check the fabric contents before ordering and applying our transfers. Be mindful of any coatings, like waterproofing, that may have been added to the item (for example, a waterproof windbreaker may not be just Polyester).
And if something doesn't work out as expected, you'll have a chance to troubleshoot - saving you time and money. We love that!
Application Instructions: Industrial Press
Step 1: Adjust Settings & Prepare your Garment
Set your time and temperature to our recommended settings:
Temperature:
- 300˚F for cotton, polyester, and B=blends
- 270˚F for polypropylene or non woven fabrics
Step 2: Load Garment, Place Transfer, and Press!
Lay garment down on the lower platen, making sure seams, zippers, etc are off the edge. This ensures even application. Place the transfer print-side down so that the ink is touching the garment - make sure it's not upside down! The clear film is super helpful with making sure you're placing the transfer correctly.
Press the transfer for 10 seconds at 300˚F (or 270˚F if non woven)
Pro tip: Use a sheet of parchment paper between the transfer and the heat press platen to reduce static. This helps avoid getting the transfer stuck to the platen and 'peeling' too early.
Step 3: Wait and Peel!
Our Digital Hybrid transfers must be peeled cold.
COLD PEEL
Let the transfer cool completely before peeling. Once cool, grab a corner and peel diagonally in a smooth, deliberate motion.
Application Instructions: Hand-Iron or Craft Press
We don't usually recommend using a hand-iron or craft press, but our Digital Hybrid transfers are the exception! Here's how you can apply these transfers with a hand iron or craft press:
Step 1: Setup Your Workspace
Use a flat, sturdy surface, like a table with a heat-resistant mat or towel. Do not use an ironing board. Smooth out your garment to remove wrinkles.
Step 2: Set Your Iron or Press
Aim for high heat, around the cotton or linen setting. If you're able to set the temp, set to 300˚F.
Step 3: Place, Cover, and Press
Place the transfer on the garment. Cover with parchment paper to shield both the design and the iron. Press the iron firmly, with as much pressure as you can, for 20-30 seconds without moving it.
Step 4: Let Cool, Then Peel Carefully
Let the transfer cool completely. Once cool to the touch, gently peel from a corner. If it hasn't fully adhered, lay the film back down and press again for another 20 seconds. Allow the transfer to cool, then peel slowly.
Step 5: Final Press
After peeling, cover the design with parchment or a cloth and press for 5 more seconds to soften the design and improve durability and washability.
For multiple designs, press one at a time. Just be sure to cover the design(s) you already applied with the film sheet or parchment paper
Extra Tips & Tricks
Preparing Your Item
- We recommend pre-pressing your garment to remove any wrinkles and/or excess moisture from the fabric.
- Make sure any zippers, seams, buttons, etc are off of the edge of the platen for even application.
Use a Commercial Heat Press
Not sure which one to get? Click here to read more about the presses we love and recommend.
If you own a heat press which is not one of our recommended brands, you can try these steps:
- Increase your temperature +10°
- Use the Maximum pressure your machine will allow
Cricut® Easy Press and other low-end Amazon presses aren't built to provide the required pressure needed to apply our transfers correctly. We strongly do not recommend using these types of presses.
Still having trouble applying our transfers? Contact our team here.
Wash & Care Instructions
For long lasting transfers, we recommend washing inside out with cold water. Line dry is strongly recommended, but who really has time for that? Tumble dry with low heat works great too.
We recommend laying the newly applied garments out for about 24 - 48 hours to allow the garment to completely cure before folding or washing.
Click here for more information about washing your heat pressed garments.
Disclaimer
We can not guarantee heat transfer washability as we're unable to verify our product was applied and washed properly according to our recommended guidelines. Our products are purchased from many major retailers who do their own testing before accepting our products. Many of these clients require a minimum washability test of 60 washes.