How To Make - Mouse Pads Using Iron On Transfer Paper

Create your own personalized mouse pads and coasters using iron-on transfer paper—perfect for custom gifts, artwork, branding, or events.


🖱️ How to Make Mouse Pads & Coasters with Iron-On Transfers

🧰 Supplies You'll Need

  • Graphics software (any image editor)
  • Inkjet printer
  • Iron-on transfer paper
  • Scissors
  • Blank mouse pad or coaster pad
  • Iron (high cotton setting, no steam)
  • Pillowcase or thin cloth

💡 Design Ideas

  • Your pet’s photo
  • Favorite selfies or group pics
  • Children’s artwork or finger paintings
  • Wedding party photos for bridal gifts
  • Business logo or branding

✨ SET UP YOUR PAGE SIZE FIRST

  • Match your design canvas to the size of the blank pad
  • Mouse pad: one per 8.5" x 11" sheet
  • Square coasters (3.5"): fit 4 per sheet
  • Round coasters (3.5" diameter): fit 6 per sheet

✨ PREPARE YOUR GRAPHIC FOR PRINT

  1. Insert your image and optional text
  2. Extend edges by 1/4" for trimming allowance
  3. Flip image horizontally (Mirror/Flip)—crucial for text
  4. Print a test on plain paper to verify layout
  5. Load transfer paper and set printer to High DPI or Best Quality
  6. Select Iron-On Transfer or Coated Paper as your media type
  7. Ensure “Mirror” setting is still enabled and print final version
  8. Let print fully dry before handling

✨ CUT TO FIT YOUR BLANK PAD

  1. Lightly trace the shape of the pad onto the back of the transfer paper
  2. Use scissors to trim excess paper and round corners as needed

✨ IRON-ON TRANSFER APPLICATION

  1. Preheat your iron on high cotton (no steam). Let it get fully hot.
  2. Place a pillowcase or cloth on a hard, flat surface—no ironing boards.
  3. Place the blank mouse pad fabric-side up on the cloth
  4. Position transfer paper face down, align carefully
  5. Iron with steady circular motion for 60 seconds using firm pressure
  6. Focus pressure around the design edges

✨ COOL, PEEL, AND REVEAL

  1. Let everything cool completely before handling
  2. Once fully cool, peel the transfer backing from a corner

🎉 Done! Enjoy your personalized mouse pad or coaster—great for gifts, keepsakes, or everyday desk style.