Iron-ons are easier to make than you might think! After showing you everything you’ll need to get started, we’ll give you step-by-step instructions and tips to become an iron-on expert. We’ll even give you great resources for free downloadable designs!
This is the correct direction for iron-on transfer text.
Cut a ¼ " border around most designs to avoid bleeds.
If you are using HP iron-on transfers, be sure to follow the detailed instructions on the package. Here are the basic steps for creating an iron-on transfer:
Choose your artwork Download one of the simple iron-on transfer projects from the HP Activity Center, or create your own design.
Print a preview Print a preview of your design on regular paper. It should look exactly how you would like to see it. Keep making adjustments and printing previews on regular paper until you are satisfied with your design.
Check design’s direction Remember, when you iron on your design, it will be flipped so that a mirror image will appear on your garment. Use imaging software to flip or “reverse” the image if necessary. If you’re not sure if you need to flip your image, look at it in the mirror. If it looks backwards, you should flip your design. (This is an especially important test for iron-ons that include text.)
Print your transfer Print your design onto an HP iron-on transfer. Print two if you plan to iron one onto a test garment.
Cut carefully Cut out your design, leaving about ¼" border.
Set your iron Use the “cotton” or hottest setting, and turn off steam.
Test your iron-on If you want to do a test, iron your design onto an old garment/piece of material (ideally of the same material and color as the one you’ll use).
Get leverage As an alternative to an ironing board, you may also use a low, flat surface such as a workbench so you can press harder when you iron.
You’re ready! Iron your design onto your final garment.
Finish up Remove the paper backing from the iron-on transfer.
Use the right printer Do not use iron-on transfers with laser printers.
Choose the right fabric For best results, pre-wash your material.
Load media correctly Make sure you load the transfer paper so it prints on the clean white side.
Launder with care To wash, turn the item inside out and wash in cold water (the first time, wash it without detergent.) Remove the items immediately after the wash is done and hang to dry.
Using iron-ons for your personalized projects can also be a fun family activity! Watch this short video to see how two sisters created their own t-shirts using the HP Activity Center iron-on designs and HP iron-on transfer paper.
Click on the arrow / play button to the left to view the video.
Printable version
