How to Use Printed HTV in a Few Simple Steps

Using printed HTV goes through almost the same procedure as other heat transfer vinyl. However, the difference lies in how you position the printed vinyl or patterned HTV on the cutting mat and how to apply it properly.

You are used to seeing plain colored vinyl that is oftentimes layered together to form a design. Now, you see a vinyl that is printed and doesn’t require too many layers to achieve your design. Using patterned vinyl can be different but still easy. Interesting? Don't skip and keep reading.

Where to buy printed HTV?

You don’t have to look far for TeckWrap Craft has it all. You can enjoy an assortment of patterned or printed HTV ranging from animal prints and colorful camouflage prints. For camouflage prints, you can choose from different colors such as yellow, orange, deep blue, pink, green, and red. Aside from the cheetah and leopard designs, animal print HTV is also available in tiger print.

Leopard Animal Print HTV

Steps in Patterned Heat Transfer Vinyl Application

Before you begin crafting, you first need to set up your work area for ease of movement and comfort. Below is the list of supplies you need for this project:

• Patterned HTV
• Heat transfer mask
• Teflon sheet
• Cutting mat
• Iron 
• Plain T-shirt

Step 1: Design Preparation

If you are a beginner, you can first try making letter designs. If you are using Cricut Design Space, use the text tool and choose your font style. For patterned HTV, do not mirror the image for the vinyl is cut printed side up. 

Step 2: Cut the Design

When your design is ready, you have to adjust your machine to the correct settings. Again, you must position the vinyl print side facing up. Turn off the “mirror” function of the software. Load the mat with vinyl into the machine and wait for the machine to finish cutting.

Step 3: Weed Excess Vinyl

You may proceed to weed when your design has finished cutting. Weed the excess vinyl around the decal and the insides of the letters. While weeding, you may notice a semi-opaque film at the back of the vinyl. This sheet holds the vinyl together.

Step 4: Apply Heat Transfer Mask

A heat transfer mask or carrier sheet works the same way as a transfer tape. The difference is, that the transfer tape may melt when exposed to heat, but the carrier sheet or heat transfer mask can withstand heat.

Using a squeegee, apply a heat transfer mask to the patterned vinyl. The mask will protect the vinyl from the heat. Rub the vinyl onto the mask. When the vinyl sticks to the mask, you can peel off the carrier sheet. 

Step 5: Press

This step works in the same way as regular HTV. You position the decal onto the shirt or fabric. You need to cover it with Teflon for protection. Using a heat press, press the vinyl with medium pressure at 305°F for 15-20 seconds.

Step 6: Peeling

In peeling off the HTV mask, you have to know whether the vinyl can be removed through either hot peel or cold peel. With hot peel, you need to remove the mask or carrier right away while the vinyl is still hot. The cold peel, on the other hand, you have to let the carrier sheet cool down before peeling off.

For printed HTV, apply the cold peel process. For shirts, you may need to turn it inside out so you can iron the decal from the inside for 20-30 seconds. Doing this helps make the bond between the fabric and vinyl stronger.

Where can you get a heat transfer mask?

Patterned HTV usually doesn't come with a carrier sheet or heat transfer mask. You may need to purchase it separately.  Carrier sheets are available in sheets or rolls. Though, if you keep the carrier sheets of your adhesive vinyl, you can use that. It may no longer be fresh, but it still serves its purpose.

Equipment for Easier Printed HTV Application

Working with patterned heat transfer vinyl will be easier if you have the right tools to work with. Here are some of the equipment you would need to make crafting with patterned heat transfer vinyl fun and easy:

Heat Press

You should invest in a quality heat press for it can better retain heat, apply even pressure, and be durable.

Alignment Tool

It is visually important that your decal is positioned straight onto the surface. You need a layout board and heat-resistant tape. If you have the extra budget, you can invest in a laser alignment system.

FAQs

What setting do you use for printed HTV?

When working with printed HTV, you need to set the temperature at 305°F. You need to apply medium pressure for 15-20 seconds. 

Do I mirror printed HTV? 

No, you don't need to mirror printed HTV for the print side should face upward when placed on a cutting mat.

Conclusion

It is great to be able to try other types of vinyl and printed HTV can be another fun challenge. Challenges make you a well-rounded crafter which is advantageous for you in the long run.

When working with printed HTV, do remember that the application has some variations to regular HTV.

You can always refer to this article for the steps on how to properly apply printed HTV. For quality projects, always use quality vinyl from TeckWrap Craft. TeckWrap Craft offers various designs and is constantly adding newer prints and vinyl to quench every crafter’s hunger for more.