Description
What Is Iron On Transfers Printing?
Iron on transfers printing is a custom manufacturing service where customers provide artwork, and we produce professional heat transfer designs using advanced DTF (Direct-to-Film) technology. Unlike pre-made transfer sheets found in craft stores, our service prints your unique designs—logos, photographs, text, illustrations, or complex graphics—onto special film coated with adhesive powder. The result is a ready-to-apply transfer that bonds permanently to fabric when heat and pressure are applied. While our standard 5-colour CMYK + White process handles most design requirements, projects requiring specialty fluorescent inks or extended colour gamut can benefit from our 9-Colour DTF Gangsheet Printing, Fluorescent DTF Printing, and Neon DTF Gangsheet Printing services.
This printing method serves businesses, organizations, and individuals who need custom garment decoration without investing in expensive equipment or purchasing finished products. You receive iron on transfers as printed sheets by the metre, ready to cut apart and apply to t-shirts, hoodies, bags, workwear, or any heat-compatible textile. The process eliminates minimum quantity requirements typical of screen printing while producing results far superior to consumer-grade transfer paper.
Our iron on transfers printing service works alongside several complementary products in our garment decoration range. For customers preferring pre-cut individual designs, our Custom DTF Transfer Printing offers individually sized transfers supplied ready to apply. Businesses needing high-volume production benefit from our DTF Gangsheet Printing Per Metre, which optimizes multiple designs across shared sheets for material efficiency. For technical applications requiring specialty finishes, explore our DTF Transfer Sheet Printing options. Those new to heat transfers might also consider our Heat Press Transfers for professional equipment guidance.
The service suits diverse customer types: small businesses creating branded merchandise, event organizers producing commemorative apparel, sports teams needing custom jerseys, print-on-demand retailers fulfilling customer orders, hobbyists making personalized gifts, and established print shops expanding decoration capabilities. Whether you’re applying transfers yourself or outsourcing application, our printing service provides the foundation for professional custom garments.
Decals for Shirts (Iron-On) – What You Receive
When you order decals for shirts iron on from Printed Today, you receive printed film sheets—not finished garments. Understanding exactly what arrives helps set proper expectations and ensures successful application. Your order includes professional-grade DTF transfers printed on 56cm wide film, supplied by the running metre based on your specified length. Each sheet features your designs printed in full CMYK colour with white ink under-base, coated with heat-activated adhesive powder, and rolled with protective interleaving to prevent sticking during storage and transport.
The transfers arrive ready to apply but require heat application equipment—either a heat press machine (strongly recommended) or a household iron (possible for small projects with careful technique). We do not supply finished t-shirts or other garments; customers are responsible for sourcing blank apparel and performing heat application. This separation allows maximum flexibility: choose your preferred garment brands, styles, and quality levels while we handle the printing.
Physical characteristics you’ll notice: the printed designs appear in full colour on clear or white carrier film, colours may appear slightly darker on the transfer than after application (this is normal—colour brightens during heat activation), designs feel slightly textured due to adhesive powder coating, and the film has a plasticky feel that transforms into soft, fabric-integrated graphics after proper heat pressing. These are professional-grade transfers, not craft-store iron-on paper—the quality difference is immediately apparent.
Your shipment includes the printed transfer sheets plus comprehensive documentation: detailed application instructions covering both heat press and household iron methods, temperature and pressure guidelines for different fabric types, troubleshooting flowcharts for common application issues, care instructions for finished garments, and access credentials to our online video tutorial library. This documentation proves essential for achieving professional results, particularly if you’re new to heat transfer application.
Uses and Applications
Our iron on transfers serve countless applications across personal, commercial, and promotional contexts. Understanding common use cases helps determine if this printing method suits your specific requirements.
Small Business and Brand Merchandise
Retail shops, cafes, gyms, and service businesses use iron on logo transfers to create branded staff uniforms, customer merchandise, and promotional giveaways. The ability to order exact quantities needed—10 shirts one week, 50 the next—eliminates inventory waste while maintaining consistent branding. Custom logo iron on transfers work equally well on cotton t-shirts, polyester polos, canvas aprons, or blended hoodies, providing branding flexibility across different garment categories. Businesses appreciate the quick turnaround (5 days standard, faster options available) and the ability to update designs seasonally without reprinting large inventories.
Events and Special Occasions
Weddings, family reunions, charity runs, festivals, and conferences frequently require custom apparel for participants or attendees. Photo iron on transfer technology excels at printing commemorative designs featuring names, dates, photographs, or event-specific graphics. Order enough transfers for your guest count plus extras for latecomers—our per-metre pricing makes small-batch custom printing economical. Event organizers particularly value the combination of photographic quality printing (capturing complex imagery accurately) and durability (transfers withstand multiple washes throughout the garment’s life).
Sports Teams and Organizations
Youth leagues, amateur clubs, and recreational teams use iron t shirt transfers and iron on shirt transfers to create custom jerseys with player names, numbers, and team branding. The flexibility to print individual player names without setup fees makes personalization economical even for small squads. Teams can order replacement transfers as needed (new members joining mid-season, replacing damaged jerseys) without reordering entire inventories. The soft hand feel of properly applied transfers ensures comfort during athletic activity—no stiff, restrictive graphics hindering movement.
Print-on-Demand and E-commerce
Online retailers offering personalized products use print iron on transfers to fulfill customer orders as they arrive. This eliminates pre-printed inventory risk entirely—print exactly what’s ordered, when it’s ordered. The rapid turnaround (express options deliver in 1-3 days) enables quick order fulfillment meeting customer expectations for fast delivery. T shirt transfers and tshirt transfers integrate seamlessly into print-on-demand workflows: receive customer order, place transfer print order same day, apply transfers to garments as transfers arrive, ship finished products to end customers. This just-in-time production model minimizes capital tied up in inventory.
Hobbyist and Personal Projects
Crafters, DIY enthusiasts, and gift-makers use iron on prints to create unique presents, personalized clothing, and one-of-a-kind items. Birthday gifts featuring inside jokes or personal photos, matching family reunion shirts, memorial tributes, pet portraits on tote bags, custom baby onesies—the creative possibilities are endless. Single-metre orders accommodate hobbyist budgets while delivering professional quality impossible to achieve with consumer craft products. Our free design assistance helps non-designers turn ideas into printable artwork.
Workwear and Corporate Uniforms
Professional services, tradespeople, and corporate environments use heat transfers for shirts to create branded workwear identifying staff and promoting professionalism. Unlike embroidery (which can be expensive for complex designs) or screen printing (which requires large minimums), heat transfers accommodate varied uniform needs economically. Order manager shirts, technician polos, and reception staff blouses in appropriate quantities, applying custom heat transfers featuring company logos, department names, or employee identifications. The durability withstands commercial laundering typical in hospitality, healthcare, and service industries.
Product Sampling and Testing
Businesses testing new designs before committing to bulk production use single or few-metre orders to print sample transfers for shirts. Apply samples to various garment types and colours, photograph products for marketing materials, gauge customer interest through pre-orders, or test wash durability under real-world conditions. This low-risk approach prevents costly mistakes from bulk ordering unproven designs. Many successful apparel brands begin with transfer-printed samples before scaling to alternative decoration methods for high-volume production.
For events and promotional applications requiring ultra-bright visibility or specialty colour effects—such as neon-themed parties, high-visibility outdoor festivals, or safety-style workwear graphics—consider our extended colour printing options. Our Fluorescent DTF Printing delivers maximum brightness on dark garments, Neon DTF Gangsheet Printing provides vibrant modern aesthetics, and 9-Colour DTF Gangsheet Printing offers comprehensive specialty colour capabilities.
Artwork, Design and File Setup
Proper artwork preparation ensures your iron on transfers print accurately, appear vibrant, and reproduce fine details successfully. We accommodate all skill levels from professional graphic designers to complete beginners, but understanding file requirements prevents delays and quality compromises.
Accepted File Formats and Specifications
We accept AI, EPS, PDF, PSD, PNG, and high-resolution JPEG files. Vector formats (AI, EPS, PDF) are ideal for logos, text, and graphics with clean edges—they scale infinitely without quality loss. Raster formats (PNG, JPEG, PSD) work for photographs and complex artwork but require minimum 300 DPI resolution at actual print size. A 30cm x 35cm design needs minimum 3543 x 4134 pixels at 300 DPI. Lower resolution files may print, but quality cannot be guaranteed—pixelation, blurriness, and jagged edges become apparent on finished transfers.
Colour mode should be RGB or CMYK (we convert RGB to CMYK during pre-press). Our CMYK + White printing process accurately reproduces most colours, but some bright RGB colours (particularly vibrant blues, oranges, and purples) may shift slightly during CMYK conversion. For brand-critical colour matching, provide Pantone references or physical colour samples—we’ll calibrate as closely as possible within CMYK limitations. Note that colours on computer screens appear different than printed colours due to backlit displays versus printed ink—expect slight variations even with careful colour management.
Design dimensions should match our 56cm film width constraint. Maximum design width is 54cm (allowing 1cm safety margin on each edge). Length is unlimited—we print from 1 metre to 150 metres continuously. Common design sizes: standard adult chest print (25-30cm wide x 30-35cm tall), small left chest logo (8-10cm x 8-10cm), large back graphic (35-40cm wide x 40-50cm tall), full back design (40-45cm wide x 50-60cm tall). Gang multiple small designs across the width or stack designs vertically along the length to maximize material usage.
Artwork Submission Methods
DIY Upload (You Provide Ready-to-Print Files):
Upload completed artwork through our website during checkout or email files after placing your order. For files exceeding email size limits, share via Google Drive, Dropbox, WeTransfer, or similar cloud services. Include any special instructions about colours, sizing, design placement, or quantity arrangements. Our pre-press team reviews all files before printing, checking resolution, colour accuracy, and layout feasibility. If adjustments are needed, we contact you with recommendations before production begins.
Free Design Assistance (We Create for You):
Lack design software? Our in-house creative team will create your iron on transfers artwork completely free of charge. This service suits simple text-based designs, converting photos into printable formats, or recreating logos from low-resolution images. Provide design details: text content and font preferences, colour specifications, photos or images to include, layout ideas, and reference examples. The more information you supply, the better we can visualize your concept. We create your design, send digital proofs for approval, and make requested adjustments before printing. This complimentary service transforms ideas into reality without expensive graphic design software or skills.
Professional Design Services (Complex Projects):
Projects requiring original illustration, extensive photo editing, or complete branding solutions qualify for our professional design services (additional fee applies). Our experienced designers create bespoke artwork from scratch, recreate damaged or low-resolution logos at print quality, develop design series maintaining visual consistency, or produce complete brand identity packages. Finished designs are supplied in editable formats (AI, PSD, PDF) so you own the artwork outright for reuse on future orders or adaptation to different products.
Transparent Background Guidance for Photo Iron On Transfer Designs
Many customers creating photo iron on transfer designs request transparent backgrounds allowing design shapes to follow subject contours rather than printing rectangular borders. While possible, transparent backgrounds require proper file preparation: supply PNG files with alpha channel transparency (not simply white backgrounds), ensure edges are cleanly cut without white halos or partial pixels, and consider that very thin or intricate shapes may be difficult to cut accurately after printing. For designs requiring precise shape cutting, slightly thicker borders (2-3mm) around subject edges improve cutting accuracy and prevent accidental edge damage.
Alternatively, consider close-crop rectangular designs where the background is minimal but present—this simplifies cutting while maintaining visual impact. Discuss transparent background requirements during order placement if you’re uncertain about technical execution.
Common Artwork Mistakes to Avoid
Low Resolution Images: The most frequent quality issue stems from low-resolution files. Images pulled from websites, social media, or screenshots rarely contain sufficient resolution for print. A 500-pixel-wide image stretched to 30cm print size appears extremely pixelated and blurry. Always work with original high-resolution files or vector graphics. If you only have low-resolution source material, discuss options with our design team—we may be able to recreate artwork or vectorize logos, though some detail loss is inevitable.
Incorrect Colour Modes: Designs created in spot colour modes (like Pantone swatches in design software) don’t translate directly to CMYK printing. Convert spot colours to CMYK process colours before submission, or provide Pantone reference numbers and we’ll convert during pre-press. RGB files convert acceptably in most cases, but be aware of potential colour shifts.
Missing Fonts or Outlined Text: If submitting files containing text, either embed fonts in the PDF or outline/convert text to paths. Missing fonts cause text to display incorrectly or substitute with different typefaces, ruining design appearance. When in doubt, supply text as outlined paths rather than live text.
Insufficient Bleed or Crop Marks: Designs requiring cutting to exact shapes should include 2-3mm bleed extending beyond cut lines. This ensures colour extends to edges even if cutting isn’t perfectly precise. Avoid placing critical text or details within 5mm of design edges—leave safe margin zones preventing accidental trimming.
Unrealistic Size Expectations: Customers sometimes request designs larger than our 54cm maximum width or expect tiny text (below 8pt) to remain clearly readable after printing. Respect size limitations and maintain reasonable text sizes for legibility. Discuss sizing concerns during pre-press review—we’ll advise on feasibility.
Finish, Feel, Durability and Care
Understanding how iron on transfers for fabric look and feel after application helps set realistic expectations. Our DTF technology produces results quite different from traditional vinyl or old-fashioned transfer paper.
Visual Appearance
Properly applied iron on prints integrate into fabric surfaces rather than sitting obviously on top. The finish appears semi-matte (not glossy plastic), colours display vibrant and saturated, fine details including small text reproduce clearly (within resolution limits), and photographic images capture realistic tones and smooth gradients. On dark garments, the white ink under-base ensures designs pop with full colour opacity—no transparency or colour washing typical of inferior transfer methods.
The visual quality closely resembles screen printing (the industry standard for professional garment decoration), particularly from normal viewing distances. Upon close inspection, the transfer edge may be slightly perceptible, but this is normal and expected. The overall impression is professional, commercial-quality decoration indistinguishable from traditional methods during typical wear.
Hand Feel and Comfort
A common concern with heat transfers involves the “hand feel”—how the decorated area feels compared to the fabric itself. Properly applied heat press transfers bond into fabric fibres during heat activation, becoming part of the garment rather than a thick surface coating. The result feels soft and flexible, moves naturally with fabric without restricting drape or stretch, breathes reasonably well (though not as openly as bare fabric), and doesn’t create the stiff, uncomfortable plastic sensation associated with low-quality transfers.
The feel is superior to traditional vinyl (which sits on top of fabric as a distinct layer) but slightly different from bare fabric. Most wearers don’t notice or mind this difference—the comfort level suits everyday wear, athletic activity, and extended use. For maximum comfort on performance athletic wear, consider keeping design coverage modest rather than large solid coverage areas that could affect breathability during intense activity.
Wash Durability Expectations
When properly applied, iron on transfers withstand 50+ wash cycles without significant fading, cracking, or peeling. Note the emphasis on “properly applied”—durability depends heavily on correct heat press technique or careful iron application. Insufficient heat, inadequate pressure, or incorrect dwell time results in weak adhesion that fails prematurely. Assuming proper application, follow these care guidelines for maximum longevity:
Washing: Turn garments inside-out before washing to protect design surfaces from abrasion. Wash in cold or warm water (avoid hot washes above 60°C which stress adhesive bonds). Use standard laundry detergents without bleach or harsh chemicals that degrade adhesive and fade colours. Consider gentle cycle for particularly valuable or frequently-worn items. Avoid fabric softeners which can coat transfers and reduce breathability.
Drying: Tumble dry on low heat setting or air dry. High heat drying isn’t necessarily harmful but may slightly accelerate normal wear over many cycles. Remove garments promptly after cycle completion to prevent heat exposure while sitting in hot dryer drums. Never iron directly on transfer surfaces—if ironing is necessary, turn garment inside-out or place a protective cloth between iron and design.
Durability Disclaimers: While we’ve tested transfers through extensive wash cycles, individual results vary based on garment fabric composition, washing machine aggressiveness, detergent chemistry, and water hardness. Heavy-duty work garments subjected to daily commercial laundering experience faster wear than casual wear washed weekly at home. These are realistic, durable decorations—not indestructible. Expect gradual fading and wear over garment lifetime, with properly applied transfers typically outlasting the garment itself in recreational use.
Heat Press Transfers vs Household Iron Application
While marketed as iron on transfers, we strongly recommend heat press equipment for optimal results. Heat presses provide even temperature distribution, consistent pressure across the entire design surface, and precise timing control—three factors critical for permanent adhesion. This section explains both application methods realistically, including success factors and limitations.
Heat Press Application (Recommended)
Why Heat Presses Work Better:
Heat presses guarantee professional results with minimal risk of application failure. Commercial-grade presses maintain accurate temperatures (±5°C variance), apply even pressure across large surface areas (no hot spots or cold edges), allow precise timing with automatic release after preset durations, and handle high-volume production efficiently. Entry-level clamshell presses (£200-£500) suit small businesses and serious hobbyists, while swing-away presses (£500-£1,500) accommodate commercial production with superior ergonomics and larger platen sizes.
For anyone planning multiple projects, launching a small custom apparel business, or producing customer orders, a heat press investment pays for itself quickly. The equipment eliminates application anxiety, produces consistent results across hundreds of applications, and unlocks additional garment decoration techniques beyond heat transfer printing (such as sublimation on polyester, vinyl application, or other specialty methods).
Heat Press Settings and Technique:
Preheat press to 160°C (320°F) with medium-firm pressure. Place garment on lower platen, ensuring the area receiving the transfer is smooth and wrinkle-free. Position transfer design-side-down (printed side against fabric). Use a Teflon sheet or silicone mat between the transfer and upper platen to protect equipment. Close press firmly and hold for 15-20 seconds (timing varies slightly by fabric weight—thinner fabrics 12-15 seconds, standard cotton 15-18 seconds, thick hoodies 18-22 seconds, polyester 155°C for 12-15 seconds to prevent glazing).
After pressing, open press and allow transfer to cool 5-10 seconds. Our transfers use cold peel technology—attempting to remove carrier film while hot risks design tearing or incomplete adhesion. Peel film slowly at a low angle (nearly parallel to garment surface). If resistance is felt or design appears to lift, stop peeling and apply additional heat for 5-8 seconds.
Household Iron Application (Possible with Limitations)
When Iron Application Makes Sense:
If you’re creating a single birthday gift, testing our service before investing in equipment, or decorating one garment occasionally, household iron application is possible following careful technique. Understand that results depend heavily on your iron’s capabilities, your technique consistency, and realistic expectations about durability compared to heat press applications. Success is certainly achievable, but requires patience and attention to detail.
Critical Success Factors:
Use the highest heat setting your iron offers (typically “Cotton” or “Linen,” usually 200-220°C). Disable steam completely—moisture interferes with adhesive activation and creates uneven bonding. Apply very firm pressure using your full body weight, not just hand pressure. Work in overlapping sections, holding each area 20-25 seconds with constant firm pressure. The challenge with irons lies in uneven temperature distribution (center hotter than edges), inconsistent pressure application (hard to maintain constant force manually), and lack of automated timing (easy to rush or over-hold sections).
Iron Application Success Checklist
If using a household iron to apply iron on transfers, follow this checklist to maximize success probability:
- Pre-wash garment: Remove sizing chemicals that interfere with adhesion; allow garment to dry completely before application
- Use hard, flat surface: Apply on hard table or floor, not ironing board (cushioned surface absorbs pressure)
- Set maximum heat: Use Cotton/Linen setting; avoid synthetics setting which is too cool
- Disable steam completely: No moisture during application; ensure water reservoir is empty
- Use protective sheet: Place Teflon sheet, parchment paper, or thin cotton cloth between iron and transfer
- Apply very firm pressure: Your full body weight leaning onto iron, not just arm strength
- Work in overlapping sections: Hold each area 20-25 seconds; overlap slightly to ensure full coverage
- Focus on edges and corners: These lift most easily; apply extra attention and pressure
- Let cool completely: Wait minimum 10 seconds (longer for thick fabrics) before peeling
- Peel slowly at low angle: If resistance felt, stop and apply more heat
- Test before wearing: Wait 24 hours, then test wash before gifting or selling
Troubleshooting Common Application Issues
Edges Lifting or Corners Not Adhering:
Increase pressure significantly—use your full body weight pressing down. Extend press time by 5 seconds. For large designs where press platen or iron is smaller than the design, apply firm hand pressure around edges immediately after machine pressing while transfer is still hot. Edges receive less pressure than centers in many applications, causing selective adhesion failure.
Design Cracking, Peeling, or Sections Missing:
Usually indicates insufficient pressure during initial application. Increase pressure setting on heat press or apply more body weight with iron. Ensure garment is completely flat without wrinkles underneath transfer—seams or folds create pressure voids where adhesion fails. Avoid placing designs directly over garment seams, pockets, or construction details whenever possible.
Colours Appear Faded or Washed Out:
Temperature may be too low. Verify actual platen temperature with an infrared thermometer—displayed temperatures can differ from actual surface temperatures by 10-20°C in cheaper equipment. Increase temperature by 5-10°C and test. Extend press time by 5 seconds. If colours look correct immediately after pressing but fade after first wash, adhesion was insufficient—repress transfer with increased heat and pressure (though repressing after washing rarely achieves original durability).
Film Won’t Peel Cleanly:
Transfer hasn’t cooled sufficiently. Allow 15-20 seconds cooling for thick fabrics. Peel very slowly at extremely low angle to minimize design stress. If film still resists, adhesive may have over-melted—reduce temperature by 5-10°C for next application. Some designs with very fine details or thin sections may require extra care during peeling.
White Residue or Film Texture Remains:
Small amounts of adhesive powder residue may appear around design edges after peeling—this is normal and doesn’t affect durability. It typically disappears after first wash. If significant residue remains or film texture is very prominent, temperature may have been slightly low causing incomplete adhesive activation. This doesn’t necessarily affect adhesion but may affect appearance slightly.
Application Method Disclaimer
Our quality guarantee covers manufacturing defects only—application method issues fall outside warranty coverage. If transfers fail to adhere properly due to insufficient heat, inadequate pressure, incorrect technique, improper iron use, or unsuitable garment selection, these are application failures not manufacturing defects. We provide comprehensive application guidance and technical support to help you succeed, but cannot control application conditions in customer facilities. For critical projects, important gifts, or customer orders, we strongly recommend heat press application or using local print shop pressing services. Test our transfers on sample garments before committing to important projects.
Turnaround and Delivery Options
Understanding production timelines and delivery options helps plan projects appropriately and select service levels matching your urgency requirements.
Production vs Delivery Time
Our stated delivery timeframes represent business days from artwork approval to your door—not just production time. For example, “5-day delivery” means your order arrives approximately 5 business days after you approve artwork and we begin production. This includes printing time (typically 1-2 days), quality inspection, packaging, and carrier transit. All personalised iron on transfers uk production occurs entirely in-house at our UK facility—no overseas outsourcing causing unpredictable delays.
Artwork Approval Process:
Most orders enter production immediately if artwork is print-ready and no questions exist. Orders requiring design clarification, resolution concerns, or layout adjustments may experience 1-2 day delays while we communicate with you. To minimize delays: upload high-resolution files, include detailed instructions with your order, respond promptly to pre-press inquiries, and approve digital proofs quickly if requested. Complex gang sheet layouts or custom arrangements may require approval before production begins.
Delivery Service Levels
Standard Delivery (5 Working Days):
Our most economical option delivers within five business days from artwork approval. Perfect for planned projects without urgent deadlines. Price shown in our pricing tables represents this standard delivery speed. Includes full tracking and insurance coverage. Orders placed Monday-Thursday typically enter production same day; Friday orders may begin Monday depending on queue depth. Weekend and bank holiday days don’t count toward delivery timeframes.
Express 72-Hour Delivery (3 Working Days):
Three-day express accelerates both production priority and shipping speed. Adds 7% premium over standard pricing. Suitable for moderate urgency where you need transfers by week’s end but don’t require next-day service. Orders placed before noon receive priority production scheduling; afternoon orders may begin next morning.
Express 48-Hour Delivery (2 Working Days):
Get your custom iron on transfers within two business days. Ideal when deadlines approach but overnight service isn’t necessary. Adds 12% premium over standard rates. Production begins immediately upon artwork approval with priority queue position and expedited courier shipping.
Express 24-Hour Delivery (Next Business Day):
Next-day service guarantees delivery the following business day after artwork approval. Adds 30% premium to base pricing. Orders must be placed and artwork approved before our daily cut-off time (typically 2pm, but verify current cut-off at checkout). Priority handling throughout production and overnight courier shipping ensure rapid delivery. Critical for urgent customer orders, last-minute event requirements, or deadline-driven projects.
Same-Day Collection Service:
Available from select UK locations for extreme urgency. Artwork must be approved before 10am for collection after 4pm same business day. Adds 50% premium to standard pricing. Verify location availability and current collection times during order placement. This service suits critical situations requiring transfers today, though most customers find next-day delivery sufficient for urgent needs at lower cost.
Order Timing Strategies
Plan ahead when possible. Placing orders several days before needed provides buffer for unexpected issues (artwork problems, equipment delays, carrier exceptions). For important events or customer commitments, consider ordering earlier with standard delivery rather than risking express service requirements. The cost savings often justify planning ahead.
Reorders of previously printed designs process faster since artwork is already on file and approved. Keep project records noting previous order numbers for quick reference during reorders.
Pricing and Bulk Discounts
Complete Pricing with Express Delivery Options
| Running Metres | Standard (5 Days) | Express 72hr (3 Days) | Express 48hr (2 Days) | Express 24hr (Next Day) | Same Day Collection |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1m | £8.48 | £9.07 | £9.50 | £11.02 | £12.72 |
| 2m | £8.38 | £8.97 | £9.39 | £10.89 | £12.57 |
| 3m | £8.28 | £8.86 | £9.27 | £10.76 | £12.42 |
| 4m | £8.18 | £8.75 | £9.16 | £10.63 | £12.27 |
| 5m | £8.08 | £8.65 | £9.05 | £10.50 | £12.12 |
| 10m | £7.98 | £8.54 | £8.94 | £10.37 | £11.97 |
| 15m | £7.48 | £8.00 | £8.38 | £9.72 | £11.22 |
| 20m | £6.48 | £6.93 | £7.26 | £8.42 | £9.72 |
| 25m | £6.38 | £6.83 | £7.15 | £8.29 | £9.57 |
| 30m | £6.28 | £6.72 | £7.03 | £8.16 | £9.42 |
| 35m | £6.18 | £6.61 | £6.92 | £8.03 | £9.27 |
| 40m | £6.08 | £6.51 | £6.81 | £7.90 | £9.12 |
| 45m | £5.98 | £6.40 | £6.70 | £7.77 | £8.97 |
| 50m | £5.88 | £6.29 | £6.59 | £7.64 | £8.82 |
| 75m | £5.48 | £5.86 | £6.14 | £7.12 | £8.22 |
| 100m | £4.98 | £5.33 | £5.58 | £6.47 | £7.47 |
| 150m | £4.88 | £5.22 | £5.47 | £6.34 | £7.32 |
Pricing Note: Standard delivery pricing (highlighted green) represents our baseline rates for 5-day service. Express delivery options add percentage premiums reflecting expedited production and shipping: 72-hour express adds 7% (moderate urgency), 48-hour express adds 12% (approaching deadlines), 24-hour next-day adds 30% (urgent requirements), and same-day collection adds 50% (critical situations). Each running metre provides 56cm width x 100cm length (0.56 square metres) of printable space. Bulk discounts automatically apply as quantities increase—ordering 100 metres costs £4.98 per metre (41% discount) versus £8.48 for single metres. No coupon codes required; discounts calculate automatically at checkout based on total metres ordered.
Competitor Price Comparison (December 26, 2024)
| Running Metres | Printed Today | DTF Transfer UK | DTF Print UK | Future Transfers | 1ClickPrint |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1m | £8.48 | £15.00 | £13.29 | £12.45 | £11.99 |
| 5m | £8.08 | £13.00 | £10.89 | £10.95 | £11.49 |
| 10m | £7.98 | £12.00 | £9.99 | £10.95 | £10.99 |
| 20m | £6.48 | £11.00 | £6.99 | £10.45 | £10.49 |
| 50m | £5.88 | £9.00 | £6.99 | £8.95 | £9.99 |
| 100m | £4.98 | £8.00 | £6.99 | £7.95 | £7.19 |
| 150m | £4.88 | £7.00 | £6.99 | £7.95 | £7.19 |
Competitor Comparison Note: Pricing collected December 26, 2024, from publicly listed UK heat transfer suppliers offering comparable 56cm width DTF printing services. Printed Today consistently delivers the most competitive per-metre rates across all quantity brackets. At 100 running metres, customers save between £2.01–£3.02 per metre compared to competitors—total savings of £201–£302 on a single order. Our transparent pricing contains no hidden fees, setup charges, or mandatory minimums. These savings compound significantly for businesses ordering regularly, making Printed Today the economical choice for both occasional projects and production-scale operations.
Bulk Discount Breakdown
| Quantity | Price per Metre | Total Cost | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1m | £8.48 | £8.48 | — |
| 2m | £8.38 | £16.76 | £0.20 |
| 3m | £8.28 | £24.84 | £0.60 |
| 4m | £8.18 | £32.72 | £1.20 |
| 5m | £8.08 | £40.40 | £2.00 |
| 10m | £7.98 | £79.80 | £5.00 |
| 15m | £7.48 | £112.20 | £15.00 |
| 20m | £6.48 | £129.60 | £40.00 |
| 25m | £6.38 | £159.50 | £52.50 |
| 30m | £6.28 | £188.40 | £66.00 |
| 35m | £6.18 | £216.30 | £80.50 |
| 40m | £6.08 | £243.20 | £96.00 |
| 45m | £5.98 | £269.10 | £112.50 |
| 50m | £5.88 | £294.00 | £130.00 |
| 75m | £5.48 | £411.00 | £225.00 |
| 100m | £4.98 | £498.00 | £350.00 |
| 150m | £4.88 | £732.00 | £540.00 |
Bulk Discount Note: Our progressive discount structure rewards increased order quantities with substantial per-metre savings. The “You Save” column displays cumulative savings compared to single-metre baseline pricing (£8.48/m). Ordering 50 metres saves £130 total, 100 metres saves £350 total (41% per-metre discount), and 150 metres saves £540 total (42% per-metre discount). Volume discounts automatically apply at checkout based on total metres ordered—no coupon codes, negotiation, or account setup required. Businesses ordering regularly benefit significantly from these volume incentives, making bulk purchasing economical even when not all material is needed immediately.
Support and Quality Checks
Our technical support team understands heat transfer printing thoroughly, providing expert guidance throughout your order journey from initial inquiry through post-delivery application support.
Pre-Press Review Process
Every order undergoes manual pre-press review before production begins. Our team examines artwork files checking resolution quality (ensuring sufficient DPI for clean printing), colour accuracy (verifying CMYK conversions appear acceptable), layout feasibility (confirming designs fit within our 56cm width constraint and allow proper margins), and identifying potential issues (low-resolution images that may print poorly, colour modes requiring conversion, missing fonts, or sizing concerns).
If problems are detected, we contact you via email with specific recommendations before proceeding. This proactive quality control prevents expensive printing errors and ensures your expectations align with what’s physically possible. Response time to pre-press inquiries directly impacts your delivery timeline—prompt replies keep orders on schedule, while delayed responses extend production start dates.
Getting Application Support
Contact our support team via phone, email, or live chat during business hours for immediate assistance with application questions, troubleshooting, or technical guidance. Common support topics include heat press temperature calibration for specific fabric types, pressure adjustments achieving optimal adhesion, household iron technique coaching for customers without heat press access, fabric compatibility concerns for specialty textiles, and troubleshooting adhesion failures or appearance issues.
We provide comprehensive application documentation with every order including detailed instruction sheets, troubleshooting flowcharts, fabric-specific settings guides, and video tutorial links. Our YouTube channel features step-by-step application demonstrations showing real-time pressing, peeling techniques, and solutions to common mistakes. These resources empower self-service problem solving, though direct support remains available when documentation proves insufficient.
Pre-Purchase Consultations
Uncertain whether iron on transfers suit your specific application? Contact us before ordering to discuss project requirements, expected durability for your use case, fabric compatibility concerns, quantity recommendations based on your needs, and alternative decoration methods if transfers aren’t ideal for your situation. We prioritize your project success over making sales—if alternative methods better suit certain applications, we’ll honestly advise accordingly. This consultative approach builds long-term relationships rather than maximizing individual transaction values.
Returns and Quality Guarantee
We stand behind our printing quality with a comprehensive guarantee covering manufacturing defects. If your print iron on transfers arrive with printing errors, colour misregistration, film defects, adhesive coating issues, or other production problems, we’ll replace them free of charge or provide a full refund at your preference.
Our Guarantee Covers: Printing defects (colour banding, streaking, misregistration), film defects (tears, contamination, holes), adhesive powder issues (insufficient coating, uneven application), incorrect designs printed (wrong artwork, sizing errors), and transit damage documented with photographic evidence. In these cases, contact support with order details and images showing defects—we’ll resolve issues promptly.
Our Guarantee Does NOT Cover: Application method failures resulting from insufficient heat, inadequate pressure, incorrect technique, improper iron usage, unsuitable garment selection, or deviation from provided instructions. These are application issues, not manufacturing defects. If transfers don’t adhere properly due to user application errors, replacement or refund requests will be declined. This policy protects us from liability for factors beyond our control while ensuring legitimate manufacturing defects receive immediate resolution.
We strongly recommend testing our transfers on sample garments before committing to important projects, especially if using household iron application. Order 1-2 sample metres, practice application technique, verify durability through test washing, and confirm results meet your standards before placing production orders. This precaution prevents disappointment on critical projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply iron on transfers with a regular household iron?
A: Yes, household iron application is possible but we strongly recommend heat presses for optimal results. If using an iron, set to maximum heat (Cotton setting, no steam), apply very firm pressure for 20-25 seconds per section, and work carefully in overlapping areas. Success requires proper technique—uneven heat and inconsistent pressure from irons can cause partial adhesion. For important projects, gifts, or customer orders, invest in an entry-level heat press (£200-£500) or use local print shop pressing services. Our warranty covers manufacturing defects only, not application method issues. Test thoroughly before committing to important projects if using household iron application.
Q: What file types and resolution do you need for photo iron on transfer designs?
A: We accept AI, EPS, PDF, PSD, PNG, and high-resolution JPEG files. For photo iron on transfer designs featuring photographs or complex imagery, supply PNG or JPEG files at minimum 300 DPI resolution at actual print size. A 30cm x 35cm photo print requires approximately 3543 x 4134 pixels at 300 DPI. Lower resolution files may print but quality cannot be guaranteed—expect pixelation, blurriness, and lack of fine detail. For best photographic quality, work with original camera files or high-resolution scans rather than images pulled from websites or social media. Supply photos with good lighting, sharp focus, and appropriate composition for printing. Our pre-press team reviews all photo files before printing and will contact you if resolution concerns exist.
Q: How do heat press transfers compare to screen printing or embroidery?
A: Heat press transfers offer several advantages: no minimum quantities (order single metres vs screen printing’s typical 24-50 piece minimums), complex designs with unlimited colours (screen printing charges per colour, embroidery struggles with photographic detail), quick turnaround (5 days standard vs weeks for screen printing setup), and lower startup costs (no expensive screens or digitizing fees). Drawbacks include per-piece cost that doesn’t decrease dramatically with volume (screen printing becomes very economical at 100+ pieces), and slightly different hand feel compared to direct printing methods. For runs under 50 pieces, designs with many colours or photographic elements, or projects requiring quick delivery, heat transfers often prove more practical and economical than traditional methods. For very large runs (500+ pieces), simple designs (1-3 colours), or when absolute lowest per-piece cost matters most, screen printing may be preferable.
Q: Can I use iron on logo transfers for business uniforms and workwear?
A: Yes, iron on logo transfers and custom logo iron on transfers work excellently for business uniforms, branded workwear, and staff apparel across various industries. The durability withstands commercial laundering typical in hospitality, healthcare, and service sectors when properly applied with heat press equipment. Transfers accommodate varied uniform needs economically without minimum quantities—order exact amounts needed for current staff, reordering as employees join or uniforms require replacement. This flexibility beats embroidery’s setup costs for small teams and screen printing’s minimum quantities. Consider heat press investment for in-house application if producing uniforms regularly, or outsource application to local print shops. Test wash durability on your specific uniform fabrics before ordering large quantities to verify performance meets your standards.
Q: How long do iron on transfers last through washing?
A: Properly applied t shirt transfers withstand 50+ wash cycles without significant fading, cracking, or peeling. Durability depends heavily on correct application technique—160°C at medium-firm pressure for 15-20 seconds ensures complete adhesive bonding. Follow these care guidelines: wash garments inside-out in cold or warm water (avoid hot washes above 60°C), use gentle detergents without bleach, tumble dry on low heat or air dry, and never iron directly on transfer surfaces. Results vary based on garment fabric, washing machine aggressiveness, detergent chemistry, and wear frequency. Heavy-duty workwear subjected to daily commercial laundering wears faster than casual wear washed weekly. These are durable, professional decorations that typically outlast garments in recreational use, but gradual fading and wear over garment lifetime is normal and expected.
Q: What’s the difference between your service and craft store iron-on paper?
A: Our professional heat transfer printing service uses advanced DTF technology producing dramatically superior results compared to consumer craft store products. Key differences: professional CMYK + White printing (vs basic inkjet/laser limited colour), soft hand feel integrating into fabric (vs stiff plastic coating sitting on surface), excellent wash durability (50+ cycles vs craft paper’s 3-10 cycle lifespan before cracking), works on dark fabrics with full colour opacity (vs craft paper requiring light garments or washing out colours), and photographic quality detail reproduction (vs craft paper’s grainy, limited resolution). The quality, durability, and professional appearance justify the investment for any application beyond simple one-time craft projects. Craft store products serve hobby/testing purposes; our service produces commercial-quality results suitable for customer products, business merchandise, or professional applications. For specialty colour requirements including fluorescent inks and extended gamut printing, explore our 9-Colour DTF Gangsheet Printing, Fluorescent DTF Printing, and Neon DTF Gangsheet Printing options.
Q: Can I create custom iron on transfers for fabric types other than t-shirts?
A: Absolutely! Our custom iron on transfers and iron on transfers for fabric bond permanently to virtually all heat-compatible textiles including hoodies, sweatshirts, sports jerseys, workwear shirts, canvas tote bags, aprons, polyester flags, nylon bags, denim jackets, and more. The versatility stems from our CMYK + White printing—designs appear vibrant on light, dark, and coloured fabrics equally. Some considerations: heavily textured fabrics (waffle knits, thick fleece) require extra pressure and slightly longer press times for adhesion into fabric valleys; extremely stretchy materials (high spandex content) may experience some design cracking if stretched beyond normal wear ranges; and technical fabrics with waterproof coatings or specialty finishes should be tested before production as some treatments interfere with adhesion. Standard-weight garments without excessive texture deliver best results. Test on your specific fabrics before bulk ordering when working with specialty materials.
Q: How do I know if my design will print clearly at the size I want?
A: Resolution determines print clarity. For raster images (PNG, JPEG), calculate required pixel dimensions using this formula: (desired print width in inches) x 300 = minimum pixel width. A 12-inch wide design needs minimum 3600 pixels width at 300 DPI for clear printing. Below 300 DPI, expect increasing pixelation and blurriness. Vector graphics (AI, EPS, PDF) scale infinitely without resolution concerns—a 5cm logo and 50cm banner both print identically clearly from the same vector file. Text should maintain minimum 8-10pt size for legibility after printing—smaller text may appear blurry or difficult to read, particularly on textured fabrics. Fine line details require minimum 0.5pt width to print without breaking up. If uncertain about your artwork quality, upload files and request pre-press review—our team examines resolution and advises on expected print quality before production begins. Better to identify resolution problems before printing than discover issues after receiving transfers.
Q: Do you offer design services if I don’t have print-ready artwork?
A: Yes! We provide free design assistance for simple projects like text-based designs, logo recreation from low-resolution images, or converting photos into printable formats. Describe your requirements (text content, colours, layout ideas, images to include), and our in-house creative team creates your artwork at no charge. We send digital proofs for approval before printing. This complimentary service suits customers without graphic design software or skills who need basic designs created. Complex projects requiring original illustration, extensive photo editing, or complete branding solutions qualify for our professional design services (additional fee applies based on complexity). Our experienced designers create bespoke artwork, develop design series, or produce complete brand identity packages. Finished designs are supplied in editable formats (AI, PSD, PDF) so you own artwork outright for reuse. Contact our team to discuss your design needs and receive project quotes.
Q: Can I order samples before committing to large quantities?
A: Absolutely, we strongly recommend it! Order 1-2 sample metres to test our iron on transfers printing quality on your specific garments and with your application equipment before placing bulk orders. Sampling confirms colour accuracy on your fabric, adhesion performance with your heat press or iron, wash durability under your care conditions, and hand feel meets your quality expectations. Testing also lets you refine application parameters (temperature, time, pressure) for your specific equipment and fabric combinations. Sample orders process identically to production orders—same quality, same turnaround. Once satisfied with results, scale confidently to production quantities. This precaution prevents expensive mistakes from ordering large quantities of unsuitable transfers. Many customers use samples to photograph products for marketing materials, test customer interest through pre-orders, or verify designs before bulk commitments.
Order Your Iron On Transfers Printing Today
Printed Today delivers professional iron on transfers printing that transforms custom artwork into vibrant, durable heat transfer designs. Our DTF technology produces custom iron on transfers suitable for t-shirts, hoodies, workwear, bags, and any heat-compatible textile—all printed on 56cm wide film supplied by the running metre with automatic bulk discounts rewarding larger orders.
Order print iron on transfers manufactured entirely in-house at our UK facility with transparent pricing and fast turnaround. From single-metre hobbyist projects to 150-metre commercial runs, every order receives identical attention to colour accuracy, registration precision, and adhesion quality. Upload artwork directly, request free design assistance, or commission professional design services—we accommodate every skill level and project complexity.
Whether you’re applying heat press transfers with professional equipment or carefully using a household iron, our comprehensive application guidance and technical support help ensure successful results. Create stunning iron t shirt transfers, professional iron on logo transfers, memorable photo iron on transfer gifts, or any custom decals for shirts iron on application. Start your order today backed by quality guarantees, expert technical support, and the confidence that comes from UK-based manufacturing.
For specialty colour requirements including fluorescent and neon effects, explore our 9-Colour DTF Gangsheet Printing, Fluorescent DTF Printing, and Neon DTF Gangsheet Printing services.