With Insta’s custom screen printed heat transfers, applying your graphics onto fabric couldn’t get any easier. Each product type includes the recommended heat transfer application settings. If you have any questions about which heat transfer to use, we can help you find your total solution.
Insta Graphic Systems is a US-based manufacturer. Our California-based sales team is here to partner with you on your branding requirements. When used in conjunction with our heat press machinery our highly durable heat transfers provide the best in class in the industry. Call our staff at — 562.404.3000 or E-mail us at sales@instagraph.com for a product consultation. Make the most of our full color heat transfers and create something amazing.
For over 60 years, Insta Graphic Systems has been the industry standard for heat press machines and heat transfers.
Unlike vinyl and cad-cut transfers, Insta’s custom heat transfers do not require additional labor and equipment. They also expedite production by removing the need for repetitive and time-consuming steps such as cutting, pressing of the transfer for adhesion, and weeding of the design to eliminate excess films.
Increased Efficiency
Insta’s heat transfers are custom-made, available in a variety of styles and color options, and are printed to match your own design. The entire application process takes seconds. This includes dressing the garment or other substrate on the platen and imprinting the design using an Insta heat press machine.
The process is easy and efficient, making Insta’s heat transfers the perfect solution for time-sensitive, high-quality orders.
Greater productivity
Our heat press machines boast swift recovery from one application to the next. There is no need to wait for the equipment to re-heat before applying the next transfer.
Superior quality
Our custom heat transfers are long lasting holding their shape and color even after numerous washes. We also have the ability to work with a vast array of fabrics and designs. Our R&D specialists team will perform in-house testing of fabrics to ensure seamless processes and high-quality results.
t-shirt transfers, heat is conducted from the iron to the transfer, and then into the fabric of the garment.
Convection: This method involves the movement of heat by the physical motion of a fluid (which could be a liquid or a gas). In the context of heat transfers, convective heat may be used to uniformly heat a press or a chamber where transfers are cured or set.
Radiation: Radiative heat transfer occurs through electromagnetic waves and does not require a medium or contact between objects. This type of heat transfer is less common in the direct application of transfers but can be involved in the drying or curing processes where infrared heating is used.
Each of these mechanisms plays a crucial role in the heat transfer equipment and processes used in garment and item decoration.
Practical Applications in Custom Heat Transfers
Custom Heat Transfers for Apparel and Accessories
Custom heat transfers are incredibly versatile, allowing businesses and designers to offer personalized options like names, numbers, and bespoke designs on a variety of garments and accessories. The key types of transfers include:
DTF (Direct to Film) Transfers: These involve printing a design onto a special film that is then heat pressed onto the garment. DTF is prized for its ability to adhere to many different types of fabric, including challenging ones like nylon and polyester.
Screen Print Transfers: Often used for larger runs, these are created by screen printing the design onto transfer paper and then transferring it onto fabric with heat.
Plastisol Transfers: Similar to screen printing but the design is printed onto a special transfer paper and transferred with heat.
Iron-On Transfers: These transfers are applied using a home iron. They are popular for DIY projects and are often featured in tutorials on platforms like YouTube.
The choice of transfer type depends on various factors, including the material of the garment, desired durability of the print, and production volume.
Equipment and Materials
The essential tools and materials for applying heat transfers include:
Heat Press: A machine that uniformly applies heat and pressure for a set amount of time. Specialized heat presses for items like hats, mugs, and plates are also available.
Transfer Materials: These range from heat transfer vinyl (HTV), which comes in a variety of colors and finishes like matte, gloss, and neon, to printable transfer sheets for DTF and screen print methods.
Blanks: These are pre-made items ready for customization, such as t-shirts, hats, bags, and mugs.
Creating a Successful Heat Transfer Business
To thrive in the custom heat transfer market, businesses need to consider the following:
Design Capability: Utilizing software tools that handle various file types, including SVG and high-resolution images, is crucial. Designers can use these tools to create detailed and colorful transfers that meet customer expectations.
Quality Supplies: The selection of high-quality blanks and transfer materials affects the final product’s feel, durability, and appearance. Brands like Siser and other reputable manufacturers offer reliable materials that consistently produce excellent results.
Customer Experience: From browsing the store’s online offerings via a well-designed website to receiving timely shipping and helpful customer service, every aspect of the customer interaction needs to be optimized for satisfaction.
Marketing: Utilizing social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube, businesses can showcase their products, share design tips, and connect with a broader audience.
Conclusion
Heat transfer technology blends the science of thermal energy with the creativity of design. Whether it’s creating custom t-shirts for a family reunion, producing unique decals for a local business, or offering a selection of personalized photo panels, the possibilities are nearly endless. With a solid understanding of heat transfer mechanisms, the right tools and materials, and a focus on customer needs, businesses can succeed in this vibrant and ever-evolving industry.