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How To Make - Iron On Transfers for Dark Fabrics

Step-by-step instructions for using our inkjet iron-on transfer paper on dark T-shirts, fabrics, and cotton projects.

🖨️ Iron-On Transfers for Dark Fabrics

Our dark fabric transfer paper works beautifully on smooth dark cotton or cotton blend fabrics using a standard inkjet printer. Great for T-shirts, tote bags, and crafts.

🧰 What You'll Need

  • Digital image (scanned or from a camera)
  • Pre-washed dark cotton or 50/50 cotton blend fabric
  • Inkjet-compatible dark fabric transfer paper
  • Color inkjet (bubble jet) printer
  • Household iron or commercial heat press
  • Flat, smooth, heat-resistant surface
  • Clean soft cloth

🖨️ Printing Instructions

  1. Print a test copy on plain paper.
  2. Insert one sheet of dark fabric transfer paper, blank side up.
  3. Ensure your printer settings are NOT set to mirror/flip/T-shirt mode.
  4. Recommended settings: Paper Type – Plain | Quality – Best or High
  5. Let printed transfer dry thoroughly (overnight recommended).
  6. Trim around the design carefully before applying.

🔥 Heat Application Methods

Commercial Heat Press

  • Preheat press to 325°F.
  • Pre-press fabric briefly to remove moisture.
  • Place transfer face up. Use light-medium pressure for 30 seconds.
  • Rub gently with soft cloth, cool, then peel carefully.

Hand Ironing

  • Use hard surface (not ironing board or soft table).
  • Iron pillowcase flat on surface and preheat fabric to remove wrinkles.
  • Let fabric cool fully before applying transfer.
  • Peel away the backer (the lined side).
  • Place transfer image side up. Cover with ironing sheet.
  • Use firm pressure with iron (cotton setting), sliding constantly.
  • 8.5 x 11" = 1.5–2 minutes; 8.5 x 5.5" = 45 sec–1 min.
  • Rub gently with cloth and peel transfer when cool.

🧺 Washing & Care

  • Always turn garment inside out before washing.
  • Use cold water and mild detergent only – no bleach.
  • Air dry or use air-only tumble setting.

📦 Storage & Handling

  • Store paper in a resealable plastic bag with a desiccant pack if possible.
  • Keep in a cool, dry area to prevent humidity damage.

🛠️ Troubleshooting

  • Yellowed image: Heat too high. Check iron temp (325°F max).
  • Transfer won’t stick: Ensure correct temp and remove backing. Use more pressure.
  • Paper stuck to iron: Always use ironing sheet between iron and image.
  • Image cracking after wash: Pre-wash fabric, increase pressure when ironing.
  • Edges lifting: Pay extra attention to edges during ironing—firm pressure is key.
  • Image reversed: Don’t use mirror/flip mode. Always print normally for dark fabric paper.
  • Inkjet only: Not for use in laser printers or photocopiers. Heat-based printers will melt the sheet.