How to apply Your Iron-on Decals

To activate the adhesive on the heat transfer vinyl, you need two things: heat and pressure, both of which we can get using an iron. If possible, heat press or Cricut's easy press will work best, but you can work with whatever you have at home.
  1. Position your design on your surface with the clear plastic carrier sheet on top so the design reads correctly. Tip: Cover the plastic carrier sheet with a piece of parchment paper or thin cotton fabric. We find that this helps to protect the surface and keeps the vinyl from overheating or warping.
  2. Press down on your iron and apply pressure to each part of the design for around 10-20 seconds. Some types of HTV will require more or less heat and time, so be sure to test the HTV on the material you are using. More time under the iron is not necessarily better as too much heat can melt the vinyl or ruin the adhesive. It’s also good to be aware of holes on the bottom of your iron. If your iron has holes on the bottom, be sure to move it around as you press to make sure each part of the design is getting heat and pressure.
  3. Once you have given heat and pressure to each part of the design, you can slowly start to peel up the carrier sheet. If the vinyl starts to come up with the carrier sheet, then you need to re-place the carrier sheet and give it some more heat and pressure.
Tip:
  • After removing the plastic carrier sheet, you can flip your project upside down or inside out and apply some more heat to the backside to ensure a really good application.
  • Allow the adhesive to cure for at least 24 hours before washing. Once it has been cured, it can be washed and dried. For best results, wash inside out with cold water and hang to dry or tumble dry on low.
  • Check out how to care for garments with Iron-on decals here.
Once the iron-on vinyl has been properly applied it is ready for wearing, using, and laundering. Happy Crafting!