Q&A for How to Make and Use Iron on Transfers

Return to Full Article

Coming soon

Add New Question

Question

Will it work on a cotton sweatshirt?

Community Answer

Yes, cotton is considered one of the best fabrics for iron-on transfers.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 2 Helpful 27
Question

How do I keep it from transferring backwards?

Community Answer

Make sure you have mirrored the image before you click print. Always do a test print on normal printer paper before you use your transfer paper. If your image editing program doesn't have a "mirror image" or "reserve image" option, there are lots of free online photo editors you can use, such as "picmonkey" and "befunky."

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 9 Helpful 41
Question

Can I use iron on transfers on polyester?

Community Answer

You can but it might not last that long.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 8 Helpful 28
Question

Does this only work on cotton, or can it be used on different fabrics?

Community Answer

Cotton or cotton blend fabric works best for iron-on transfers. Other types of fabric may melt from the heat of the iron. You can also use wool, silk, velveteen, velour, denim (the softer, the better) and lycra.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 4 Helpful 20
Question

Can I use an iron transfer on a hat?

Community Answer

Yes, but make sure the hat surface is flat while applying the transfer. Use the end of an ironing board. You need to have a solid wooden board on top of the ironing board to prevent the mesh dissipating the heat when you apply the transfer.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 4 Helpful 21
Question

Will an iron on transfer work on shoes?

Community Answer

Usually not, as shoes should not be ironed or subjected to the heat of an iron.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 13 Helpful 30
Question

Can I use a steam iron on transfers?

Community Answer

Never use steam to iron on transfers. The steam prevents the transfer paper from adhering and could cause liquid damage to the design.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 5 Helpful 21
Question

Does the print fade on the shirt if used for a long time?

Community Answer

It won't fade if washed with care and dried outside of the dryer after each wash.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 9 Helpful 21
Question

Can you recommend some heat resistant surfaces?

Community Answer

Heat resistant surfaces can include tables, kitchen counters, wood boards, etc.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 13 Helpful 22
Question

What websites may I use to find pictures that I have legal rights to?

Community Answer

You only have legal rights to pictures that you took. If you are looking to resell the shirts, you will need to come up with your own design. However if you use Google images search and go to more search settings, there is an option for unlicensed images.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 8 Helpful 18
Question

Can I use a laser printer to print a design which can then be transferred to a shirt?

Community Answer

Only if you're using transfer paper that's compatible with laser printers, as they can damage other types of paper. The package should specify which printers can be used with the paper.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 2
Question

Does the transfer last a long time once it's been put on the t-shirt?

wikiHow Contributor

Community Answer

The answer to this depends on the transfer paper you are using. Some may last for a month, couple of months and some last for a long period of time It also depends on how frequently you are wearing it and how you wash it. Drying the item in the dryer will spoil the transfer faster than air drying it.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 2 Helpful 4
Question

What kind of printer should I use?

wikiHow Contributor

Community Answer

Any type of printer will be fine. There is no specific printer to be used in the process but it must meet the specifications noted on the transfer packaging.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 1
Question

Is the smooth side or the glossy side printed on transfer paper?

Community Answer

The smooth side is usually printed, but your paper may have exceptions. Check the instructions that come with your transfer paper.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 1
Question

Can I use something other than an iron to do the transfers?

wikiHow Contributor

Community Answer

No. An iron is needed in the process to transfer the image to the desired cloth, using both its heat and flat, heavy surface.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 1
Question

Can I iron on transfer to mesh?

wikiHow Contributor

Community Answer

Most likely, yes. However, some of the transfer may be damaged as it hasn't got much to hold onto. Also, the fact of the holes pulling all the time means that the transfer won't last very long. Perhaps this would be okay for a short-term project, such as a costume for a night or a play, or for a one-day celebration outfit.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 2 Helpful 2
Question

Do I need a special printer to print transfers?

Community Answer

It depends on the paper you buy. Some paper doesn't work with laser printers, but there are various types of transfer paper.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 2 Helpful 1
Question

What ink is used for this process?

Community Answer

There is no specific type of ink. Whatever ink your printer uses should be fine.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 1 Helpful 0
Question

Can I make a shirt using transfer paper?

Community Answer

Yes, it works fine if you follow the instructions closely.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question

Will an iron transfer work on a bag?

Community Answer

Yes, an iron on transfer could work on a bag, but be sure that the area can be laid flat and that the bag isn't made of a material that will melt.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question

Can I use a copyrighted image for private use?

Community Answer

Technically no, as you would still be infringing upon that company's copyright and intellectual property. However, it is unlikely that they would find out, and much less likely that they would take you to court over it.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question

I have an image that I don't want white to show up on, and I can't completely cut around the image. I am printing on dark blue shorts. Can I use the transfer sheets for light fabric so the white areas show up clear instead of white?

wikiHow Contributor

Community Answer

Yes, it will follow the colour of the fabric. But beware -- the image might be slightly darker since you will be placing it on dark blue shorts.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 1
Question

Does clothing need to be washed before I transfer an iron-on?

Community Answer

No, it doesn't. Unwashed clothing works fine.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question

Could I use freezer paper to transfer a picture ?

Community Answer

No. You can only use clothing or fabric transfer paper to get this result.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question

Can I use normal A4 size paper instead of transfer paper?

Community Answer

No. It won't transfer at all. You also might risk setting the paper on fire, which would then set the shirt on fire. If you only have normal paper and only need a rough, temporary design - fun hack - take clear packing tape and cover the design (front side). Make sure there are no bubbles! Then, soak it in water and rub off the wet paper. Finally, tape it to a shirt. It won't look perfect or professional, but it's easy!

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question

How much time does it take to cool down?

Community Answer

There isn't a set time as to how long it takes to cool down, but give it at least a good 30-45 minutes before peeling off the backing, and 24 hours before washing.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question

I have black aprons that I would like to put lettering on. Can this be done with iron-on transfers?

Community Answer

Yes, this can be done with iron-on transfers. Take a look at the specifics of ironing on a transfer on black fabric, and make sure the aprons aren't made of a material that will melt.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question

Can I print two or more pictures on one transfer paper?

Community Answer

You can print as many images onto transfer paper as you want, as long as you print them out at the same time, and cut them out before ironing.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question

How do I mirror words for printing?

Community Answer

Take your image and use an online editor such as PicMonkey to flip it. You can also use Paint.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question

Can I use white tracing paper as the transfer paper or is it not the same thing?

Community Answer

No. It is not the same thing. You must use transfer paper, or else it will not work.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0