Heat transfer is one of the most versatile decorating techniques to transform a blank promo product into a customized keepsake.
The basic process is simple: The customer’s artwork is digitally printed onto a special film that’s then applied to the surface using heat and pressure to transfer the design. The film is then peeled back to reveal a vibrant, photo-quality image or design with saturated colors and intricate details that are almost impossible to achieve through other decorating methods.
There’s a heat transfer solution for nearly every surface, including 100% cotton, polyester, nylon and cotton/poly blends. Heat transfer is commonly used on T-shirts, performance wear and athletic apparel, sweatshirts and hoodies, tote bags and reusable grocery bags, coolers, caps, jackets, workwear and uniforms. With certain types of orders, heat transfer is the optimum decorating option.
“Heat transfers are ideal for low minimum orders (one to 72 pieces); full-color or detailed, multi-color designs; personalized apparel like names or numbers; stretchy, synthetic or sublimated fabrics; and fast turnaround jobs or print-on-demand programs,” says Joe Dotson, vice president of sales and marketing at Minnesota-based decorator Apex Transfers. “Heat transfers are particularly useful in company store programs, team apparel, pop-up events and short-run fulfillment.”
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When decorators talk about heat transfers, they’re usually talking about two different methods. Heat transfer vinyl involves rolls of colored or textured vinyl that are cut into custom shapes. It’s best for personalization, small runs and specialty finishes. “For example, if a client needs a quick turnaround on a few pieces – or if they want something that feels high-end and unique – HTV is a fantastic flexible solution,” says Jenna Sackett, brand engagement manager at Michigan-based decorator Stahls’.
The second method is preprinted heat transfers that look and feel like traditional screen printing but come across even better. This process is preferred for crisp, bold graphics, fast production and jobs with one to three colors. Also in this second category is direct-to-film, aka DTF, a relatively new transfer technology that’s best for complex or full-color artwork, gradients, photos, logos with shading and small quantities.
Many industry suppliers offer heat transfer as an in-factory decorating option on their garments, bags and other products, and through industry decorators like Apex Transfer and Stahls’. It’s also an add-on service some distributors provide in-house and through outside decorators.
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“One of the biggest advantages of heat transfers – especially methods like DTF and screen-printed transfers like Goof Proof – is how perfectly they fit the print-on-demand model,” says Josh Ellsworth, chief revenue officer at GroupeSTAHL, Stahls’ parent company.
“That’s a game-changer for promo clients who want to test ideas, run small campaigns or create personalized products – think employee gifts, team gear, corporate events or branded giveaways. You can order as few as 10 transfers, keep them on hand and heat press on demand as different sizes or items are needed.”
- Dotson agrees, adding, “Heat transfers empower distributors to offer high-quality decorated garments without investing in screen printing or embroidery.”
- Sackett says all you need is a heat press to get started – no ink and no mess. “Whether your client is a small business or a major brand, heat printing is fast becoming the star of the promo world,” she says.
Here are a few popular products that offer the versatility of heat transfer graphics as a decorating option:
The Ultra Soft Crewneck Fleece is as cozy as your favorite blanket. Made of a cotton/polyester blend, it’s finished with rib-knit cuffs and waistband, and comes in black, navy and grey heather in sizes XS-3XL.
Vantage Apparel / PPAI 113235, Platinum / vantageapparel.com
The Wanderlust Duffel Bag is crafted from twill polyester with matte polyester lining and features plenty of storage with a double-zippered main compartment and four more zippered pockets, plus two slip pockets, a web carrying handle and a trolley sleeve that slips easily over a roller bag handle.
Hit Promotional Products / PPAI 113910, Platinum / hitpromo.net
With its large 46-inch arc, The Defender will keep you covered. Crafted with a patented frame that’s lightweight yet heavy duty, this executive-style folding umbrella features a vented design with fiberglass shaft, rubber handle, automatic opening and double-rib construction.
Peerless Umbrella / PPAI 112666, Gold / peerlessumbrella.com
Pack everything you need for the day in this spacious and sturdy Non-Woven Boat Tote with reinforced 26-inch handles. Constructed of nonwoven polypropylene, it features a two-tone design with front pocket and a generous main compartment. Available in orange, purple and black.
Giraffe Technology / PPAI 696646, Standard-Plus / giraffeus.com
The Rainbow Recycled 6-Oz. Cotton Grocery Tote is an instant upgrade from a regular cotton grocery tote. Made from preconsumer recycled cotton, this handy carryall features rainbow webbing grab handles and makes a perfect grab and go bag for the farmer’s market or grocery store.
PCNA / PPAI 113079, Platinum / pcna.com
Step up your style with this sleek and contemporary flat-brim hat built for everyday wear. The Merrimack Hat Co. Carter Cap, crafted from Serge wool-woven polyester, has a premium fabric feel and features structured front panels, a six-panel high-profile crown, flat brim and plastic snapback closure. Available in six colors.
Gemline / PPAI 113948, Platinum / Gemline.com
The sustainable, extra-soft Allmade Unisex Tri-Blend Tee is made of 50% recycled polyester, 25% organic ring-spun cotton and 25% modal, plus a recycled tear-away label. Each shirt’s carbon footprint has been measured and reduced through a combination of preferred materials and investing in carbon offset projects though the ClimeCo Certified Product Program. Available in sizes XS-4XL and in 22 colors, including Vintage Rose (shown, with a biodegradable transfer).
SanMar / PPAI 110788, Platinum / sanmar.com
Store 24 cans of your favorite beverage plus ice in this easy-carry Heather Backpack Cooler. It’s fully insulated, with a waterproof main compartment, large gusseted front pocket and extra zippered pocket. Dual side mesh pockets are large enough to hold all the snacks, plus it has padded adjustable straps and a padded carrying handle.
Seville Gear / PPAI 113233, Silver / sevillegear.com
Filipski is a freelance writer and the former editor at PPAI.
