While it’s less commonly-known, transfer printing can often be our recommended option for printing vibrant and full-colour designs, as well as single colour individual names and numbers.

There are two types of transfer printing, both of which involve pressing or sealing a cut of material onto a garment. CAD Cut involves a transfer vinyl sheet which is cut using a machine, then placed over the garment and heat pressed at a high temperature to adhere. With litho transfer printing, the artwork is digitally printed onto litho transfer paper and then pressed onto your chosen garment.

Modern vinyl transfers are tough, durable, bond firmly with the garment and will last a long time if taken care of. There is also a huge array of colours available, including fluorescents, metallic, and flock velvet effects. To touch, transfer prints are often described as feeling a bit like plastic, but (especially litho) should feel somewhat light and soft.

Unlike DTG printing which can only be used on 100% cotton garments, transfer printing can be used on virtually any fabric including polyester, lycra sportswear, waterproofs and jackets. For this reason, this printing technique is used extensively for sportswear and team kits.

If you’re printing in large quantities, transfer printing is not usually as cost-effective as screen- or DTG printing. Once we see your artwork we always consider quantities as well as the print effect you’re after, before we recommend the best print method for the job.

Get in touch today for a transfer printing quote – sales@iconprinting.com