Heat transfer vinyl (HTV) was once limited to commercial use, but with the introduction of low-cost vinyl cutting machines like the Silhouette Cameo and the Cricut Maker, decorating with HTV has become increasingly popular.
As a novice Cricut decorator, shopping for heat transfer vinyl online can be overwhelming due to the vast selection of brands, colors, types of HTV, and prices available.
Our team at KidsBlanks by Zoe has created a helpful buyer’s guide to assist you in finding the right HTV for your next crafting project. Whether you’re personalizing a blank baby onesie, toddler t-shirt, tote bag, or mug, we’re here to make the process of buying heat transfer vinyl easy. Let’s get started!
Best Heat Transfer Vinyl for Kids T-Shirts
At KidsBlanks by Zoe, we believe that Siser EasyWeed HTV is the best choice for decorating cotton t-shirts with heat transfer vinyl. Here’s why:
As a children’s apparel company, we understand that child safety is a top priority. That’s why we only recommend Siser brand HTV, which is CPSIA certified and considered safe for decorating children’s clothing. With this certification, parents and crafters can have peace of mind knowing that their personalized products are safe for their little ones.
EasyWeed vinyl is widely regarded as the top choice for iron-on vinyl by t-shirt makers and crafters alike. One reason for this is that it can be applied at a lower temperature and pressure than many other HTV brands, making it a more forgiving option for those new to using heat transfer vinyl.
Additionally, it can be peeled hot or cold and is extremely durable even after multiple washes. Another benefit is that EasyWeed is available in a wide variety of colors, making it easy to find the perfect shade for your project.
Siser EasyWeed is not only compatible with popular vinyl cutting machines such as the Cricut and Silhouette, but it also provides specific settings for each machine. Moreover, it can even be cut with a laser cutter! Additionally, the pressure-sensitive backing of EasyWeed makes weeding a breeze, as it keeps the cut designs in place.
What to Consider When Choosing the Heat Transfer Vinyl
Not all HTV is created equal. Factors to consider when buying HTV include durability, vinyl thickness, and compatibility with materials.
Check our tips-and-tricks blog “Crafting Tips When Working with Heat Transfer Vinyl” for up-to-date information.
It’s important to check the manufacturer’s specifications to find out how many washes their vinyl can withstand, and the recommended water temperature for washing. This information will help you ensure that the HTV you choose is suitable for your specific application and will last as long as possible without fading, cracking, or peeling.
Durability
As a small business owner selling your personalized t-shirts on platforms like Etsy, it is crucial to ensure that the quality of your shirts can withstand repeated washing and wear. This means that the vinyl used to decorate them should not crack, peel, fade, or bubble over time. Choosing high-quality, durable HTV products that are designed to stretch and move with the fabric is essential for creating long-lasting products that will satisfy your customers.
Prevent Heat Damage
HTV can be applied to a wide range of surfaces and garments, such as blank t-shirts, sweatshirts, and baby drool bibs. When using HTV, make sure to check the recommended temperature and application time for the specific fabric type. Some fabrics are more susceptible to heat damage and may require HTV that can be applied at lower temperatures and for shorter periods of time.
Here’s an example that compares the time and temperature requirements for applying HTV to 100% cotton and 100% polyester fabrics.
100% Cotton Fabric Heat Press Setting
- 380 degrees Fahrenheit
- 30 seconds
100% Polyester Fabric Heat Press Setting
- 270 degrees Fahrenheit
- 10 second
The settings we have provided are for the Siser EasyWeed HTV. However, please check the manufacturer’s website for the correct heat press settings and application times.
Finishes and Textures
Heat transfer vinyl is a versatile material that can add unique designs and personalization to a variety of fabrics and surfaces. With the wide range of colors, textures, and finishes available, you can create custom designs that suit your personal style and the needs of your project. To make the most of this creative opportunity, be sure to take advantage of discounts at your local craft store or Amazon deals and experiment with different HTV materials. Trying out new textures and finishes can help you discover new possibilities and create one-of-a-kind designs that stand out from the rest.
HTV Thickness
As we mentioned earlier, vinyl is available not only in a variety of colors and textures but also in different thicknesses. Thinner sheets of HTV are easier to cut and weed, while heavier-weight HTV may be more difficult for at-home vinyl cutters like the Cricut to handle. However, thicker material can provide a unique look and feel to your custom product.
Heat Source: Iron or Heat Press
What type of material will your HTV be applied to? If you’re personalizing a blank baby onesie with a simple design, you can use a standard iron. However, if you have a large order of custom toddler t-shirts, you may want to invest in a reliable heat press. A quality heat press will provide a method of accurately measuring time, pressure, and temperature.
In conclusion, the best heat transfer vinyl in our opinion is EasyWeed HTV by Siser. HTV is a fun way to personalize kids’ clothing and create unique products you can sell on Etsy. Whether you’re creating custom baby onesies, hats, or bags there are endless possibilities with HTV. Check out Amazon and your local craft store for unique HTV textures, colors, and finishes. We hope this blog was helpful and if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our team.
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