Manual heat presses are great for someone just starting out in the industry. You have to learn to apply the right amount of pressure, time, and temperature for different types of substrates and transfer materials you are using. Here are some tips to help you use your manual heat press successfully.
Apply consistent pressure
Accurate pressure is one of the most important factors that lead to a successful heat transfer application. Pressure can be difficult to maintain when using a manual heat press, especially if more than one person is using your machine. Knowing how to adjust the pressure to the desired low, medium or heavy pressure reading is critical to your success.
Follow application instructions
It’s important that you follow the most up-to-date application instructions for the heat transfer, vinyl or color copy paper you are applying. If you do something incorrectly in the transfer process, it can lead to an improper application. This is not only a waste of your time, but it’s a waste of final product as well.
Pay attention to platen size
Platen sizes can range from machine to machine, so it’s first important to know what size your specific platen is. Then, make sure you’re using the right amount of pressure for that platen size. For example, if you’re using a smaller platen, you always want to re-check your pressure settings because more pressure is distributed when you’re using a smaller platen versus a bigger one.
Adjust pressure for each garment
Finally, you want to make sure you’re using the right amount of pressure per the specific type of garment you’re transferring to. For example, t-shirts aren’t as thick as fleece sweatshirts, which may mean they will require more pressure, depending on what type of transfer is being used.
After you use your manual heat press machine enough times, it will become second nature to you. The United States apparel market is expected to grow to an estimated $385 billion by the year 2025. You will be a champ with your manual heat press by then. If you’re ready to upgrade to more automated machinery, give us a call.