Heat Pressing Tank Tops: A Step-By-Step Guide

Heat press machines are used to apply graphic designs, logos, and artwork to garments and other surfaces. They are pretty simple to operate and are quite affordable. The machines have electronically heated metal surfaces (platen). Operating them involves applying pressure to the platen only after setting the correct temperature and printing time. Before placing your material on the platen, ensure it is in perfect condition. For multi-purpose materials, a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended. For sublimated fabric, set the temperature to around 270 degrees Fahrenheit. For stretching material, an ideal temperature would be 335 degrees Fahrenheit. When it comes to tank tops, there are a few things to consider. First, the print size – tank tops may look better with a smaller size print. Second, the print shape – a rectangular-shaped design may be better than a circular one due to the smaller print area. Lastly, threading – due to the many seams in tank tops, it is better to thread your tank top during heat printing.

Prepare your transfer paper

The first step in preparing your transfer paper is to decide on the type of paper you will use. There are two main types of heat transfer paper: inkjet transfer paper and laser transfer paper. Inkjet transfer paper is designed for inkjet printers, which use liquid ink, while laser transfer paper is made for laser printers, which use toner powder.

Once you have selected the appropriate type of transfer paper, you need to consider the colour of the fabric you will be printing on. If you are printing on light-coloured fabric, you will need transparent heat transfer paper or transfer paper for light fabrics. This type of paper is transparent or clear, allowing the colour of the fabric to show through. For dark-coloured fabrics, you should choose white heat transfer paper or transfer paper for dark fabrics, which has an opaque white layer that prevents the dark fabric colour from showing through.

The next step is to create your design. Use graphic design software to mock up your design on a computer, taking into account the size and ink colour. If you are printing onto light-coloured fabric, you will need to mirror your design before printing. However, if you are using white heat transfer paper for dark fabrics, you do not need to mirror your image.

After designing your image, it's time to print. Print your design onto the correct side of the transfer paper, following any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer. Be sure to use the best quality print settings for optimal results.

Finally, cut out your design. You can use a cutting machine, such as a Cricut or Silhouette Cameo, or simply cut with scissors. If you are using transparent heat transfer paper, leave a small border around your design. Any unprinted areas that are not cut out may transfer as a semi-transparent film onto the fabric. With white heat transfer paper, cut as close to the image as possible, as any white left around the edges will be visible after heat pressing.

Operating the heat press

Step 1: Prepare the Heat Press Machine

First, lift the handle to open the heat press machine. Adjust the temperature setting to the desired level, typically around 300-350°F for tank tops, depending on the fabric type. Set the pressure to a suitable level, and don't forget to set the timer according to the material and your design's needs. The time range for most heat presses is between 0 and 999 seconds, but for heat transfers, 10-20 seconds is usually sufficient.

Step 2: Prepare the Tank Top

Before placing your tank top on the heat press, ensure that it is properly positioned. For tank tops with seams along the neckline and arms, consider using a heat transfer pillow to lift the application area above the seams and allow for proper pressure. Insert the pillow between the front and back of the tank top, ensuring that it clears the neck, arm seams, and bottom hem.

Step 3: Pre-press the Tank Top

Cover the tank top with a heat transfer cover sheet and pre-press it for 1-5 seconds to remove any wrinkles or moisture. A smooth, dry surface is essential for effective heat transfer.

Step 4: Position the Design

Place your design or transfer paper on the tank top, ensuring that the sticky side is down and the smooth side is face-up. You can use transfer paper with a pre-printed design or print your own design using a laser printer and the appropriate transfer paper.

Step 5: Close the Heat Press

Once you are satisfied with the placement of your design, close the heat press and press the start button. The exact process may vary depending on the model of your heat press, but this step should initiate the heat transfer process.

Step 6: Remove the Tank Top

When the timer stops, carefully lift the handle and remove the tank top from the heat press. Depending on the type of transfer and material, you may need to peel off the transfer paper while the tank top is still hot.

Additional Tips:

• Consider the print size and shape: Tank tops, especially women's tanks, may look better with smaller prints due to the scoop necks. A rectangular-shaped design often works better than a circular one to balance the available space.
• Threading technique: For tank tops with unique backs or racerbacks, consider using the threading technique of heat pressing to avoid marks on the fabric.
• Fabric type: The type of fabric will influence the heat press settings and the type of transfer vinyl you use. For example, if you're using cotton, pre-pressing is recommended before applying HTV, while nylon requires EasyWeed® Extra for the HTV to stick.

Press the tank top

Pressing a tank top is a little different from pressing a T-shirt. Tank tops have seams all along the neckline and arms that can cause improper pressure and lead to HTV lifting or peeling. To avoid this, insert a heat transfer pillow inside the tank top to lift the application area above the seams.

To press a tank top:

Prepare the Tank Top

Before pressing, make sure the tank top is smooth and dry. Cover it with a heat transfer cover sheet and press for 1-5 seconds to remove any wrinkles or moisture.

Prepare Your Design

Print your design on transfer paper. If you're using a laser printer, be sure to use paper labelled for laser printers. Trim the transfer, leaving only the part you want to press.

Set Up the Heat Press

Open the heat press and adjust the settings. Set the temperature to 305°F with firm pressure for EasyPatterns and EasyWeed Stretch. Place the tank top on the plate, making sure the area you want to print is facing up.

Press the Design

Place the transfer paper on top of the tank top, sticky side down. Cover the garment and press for a second to tack the material. Then, peel the carrier hot.

Apply Any Additional Layers

If you're applying multiple layers of HTV, repeat the process for each layer. For example, you might press a base colour and then add additional colours or designs on top.

Finish the Process

Once you've applied all your layers, press the tank top for a final time to fully adhere the HTV. Peel off the last carrier, and your tank top is ready to wear!

Use a heat transfer pillow

A heat transfer pillow is a soft foam square covered in a non-stick fabric (Teflon). They are placed directly under bulky and challenging surfaces where the HTV is to be applied. They help distribute pressure evenly and prevent the top plate of the heat press (or iron) from getting a tight seal on the actual HTV.

If you're heat-pressing a tank top, a heat transfer pillow is a good idea. Tank tops, especially racerback styles, have seams all along the neckline and arms that will prevent your heat press from fully sealing on the garment. This causes improper pressure and can lead to lifting or peeling of the HTV. Inserting a heat transfer pillow inside the tank top lifts the application area above the troublesome seams, allowing for proper pressure.

To use a heat transfer pillow, insert it between the front and back of the tank top. A 12" x 14" heat transfer pillow is a suitable size for clearing the neck and arm seams, as well as the bottom hem.

You can purchase heat transfer pillows in a range of shapes and sizes, or you can make your own. If you're making your own, you'll need 0.5-inch-thick high-density foam and heat-resistant cloth or large Teflon sheets.

Choose the right heat press

Choosing the right heat press can be a daunting task, especially if it's your first time. There are several factors to consider when selecting a heat press that suits your needs. Here are some guidelines to help you make the right choice:

Style: Clamshell vs. Swing Away

The first decision you need to make is whether to go for a clamshell or a swing-away style heat press. Clamshell presses are easy to use, require minimal space, and are usually more affordable than swing-away models. They are perfect for thinner items like t-shirts but may not be suitable for thicker garments or harder materials. If you're looking for a basic and budget-friendly option, a clamshell press like the Lawson Large Clamshell Heat Press could be a good choice.

On the other hand, swing-away heat presses offer better visibility and accessibility to the layout area. The heating element swings out of the way, making it easier to get your hands into the pressing area. This design provides a more consistent application of heat and pressure as it presses from the middle. However, swing-away presses tend to be heavier and more challenging to transport unless you opt for a stand with wheels. They also come with a higher upfront cost.

Display: Digital vs. Analog

Another aspect to consider is the display and control options. Most modern heat presses feature digital temperature and timer settings displayed on an LCD screen. However, analog timers are still available on some models. An "auto-pop" feature is worth considering, as it automatically raises the heating element when the timer turns off, preventing accidental garment burns.

Durability and Warranty

When investing in a heat press, it's essential to think about durability and warranty. Heat presses manufactured in the USA often come with a manufacturer's warranty and technical support. In contrast, presses built overseas may offer limited replacement parts and are sometimes designed to be disposable if something goes wrong. Consider whether you prefer the option to repair a high-quality press or replace a cheaper one if issues arise.

Manual vs. Semi-Automatic

Heat presses come in manual and semi-automatic models. A manual press requires the operator to physically close and open the press using a handle. This can be tiring, especially if the handle is short. Semi-automatic presses, on the other hand, are air-operated or use electronic magnetic technology, making them much less fatiguing to operate. They are more accurate in terms of temperature, time, and pressure, and they are ideal for layout work. However, they tend to be more expensive and heavier, weighing around 170 pounds.

Additional Features

Some other features to look for include automatic open, which allows you to walk away from the unit while it's working, and digital pressure readout, which ensures accurate and consistent pressure. Interchangeable platens are also valuable, as they enable you to use the same heat press for various items beyond t-shirts, such as tote bags and youth garments.

In summary, when choosing the right heat press, consider your space constraints, the type and volume of items you'll be producing, and your budget. Reflect on whether you need a basic press for occasional use or a more advanced, semi-automatic model for higher production. Don't forget to consider the additional features, durability, and warranty to ensure you make a wise investment.

Frequently asked questions