20 steps to making a custom shirt using DARK transfers - "how-to" procedures

[heartbeeps]

Since I never used a transfer before, I've been reading the threads on this board for the past month to figure out how to make custom t shirts for my family's upcoming trip to Disney... using DARK TRANSFERS ONLY!

Warning: I am a beginner; I have NEVER done this before!.

ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS IN THE PACKAGE OF TRANSFER PAPERS; the steps that follow are just a guideline!

I found this video on the web showing a visual of how to iron on transfers - click here! (http://www.videojug.com/film/how-to-make-and-use-iron-on-transfers)

07/05/09 - added info about placement to step #16 and note to bottom about going to end of thread to ask a question rather than reading each post


Here's what I've learned (along with my specific decisions at each step):

1) Print out these guidelines while deciding on a theme to use
(a) DH's b'day + Family + the Incredibles and
(b) DAK & first names on Mickey heads

2) Decide on quantity
- I need 20 of various sizes (ok so now I'm at 48 and counting!)

3) Decide on a specific design
(a) Mr. Incredible Birthday/Family for adults; Dash Incredible Birthday/Family for kids;
(b) safari Mickey heads/DAK shirts
(c) "First Time" shirts
(d) Birthday shirts
(e) P&PP shirts
(f) Tote bag

4) Determine if selected design needs to be customized (yep)

5) Figure out the timeline for having shirts ready when you need them
- I started with my departure date of 4/30 and worked backwards from there, allowing time for designing, shipping, prep, etc. I plan on bringing all 21 shirts to Disney and distributing them there b'c of lack of time to mail them to everyone beforehand.

6) Get design customized
- I couldn't do step #1 without the wonderful Dis-igners here on this board being so generous with their time and creativity!
- proof read EVERY version of EVERY design you print so you are sure the spelling in each transfer is correct before you print! (I wasted about 9 transfers by not catching a typo before wasting ink and transfers; fortunately, I didn't waste the shirts, too!)
- write down the name of the designer/their "handle" whose design you use so you can appropriately credit them for their work when you post your finished product!

7) print the designs on white paper and "size them up" on the t-shirt to ensure they look good
- gosh I hope the t-shirt colors I picked work!
- some say you can print them in black and white but I really needed to see them in color! and it helps to take the paper print outs to a local store to look for shirt colors if you haven't already done that yet
- printing them on white paper first also confirms what you will get when you print on transfer paper. (after all, you don't want to waste expensive transfer paper so ensure you've got it all right - including the spelling, whether you need to reverse the image, etc.)

8) Decide on shirt - store, style, color and order
- bought from shirtsupplier.com (there's a public frequent buyer discount code - it's FBP8) and from jiffyshirts.com as well as from Michael's, Dollar Tree, and Wal-mart.
- 100% cotton T shirt
- yellow haze color of various sizes (21 ordered for the Incredibles design)
- be sure to understand the company's return policy, restocking fees, suggested quantity to buy to allow for defects in original order, etc.

9) Make sure timeline is still valid
- I originally forgot to add to my timeline enough time required to select the t shirt colors (not being artistic at all, I agonized over the right color to coordinate with each design)

10) buy transfers
- I used HP.com - buy 1 get 1 free offer (Like being a Pepsi gal, I'm gonna be on the dark side of transfers)
- If putting design on a white shirt - you can use either light or dark transfers; On any other color shirt - use dark transfers or else ALL white areas of the design will be the shirt color.
- Dark transfers tend to have more vibrant colors and are more of a matte finish and light transfers are more shiny.
- the MINUTE that the printer flashes the "ink low" message, CHANGE THE INK CARTRIDGE. Do not try to get one more transfer out of that ink cartridge. (I did that and wasted a transfer because the transfer had vertical stripes through it! )

11) wash, dry and iron the shirts
- NO fabric softener, no dryer sheets, no spray starch!

12) if happy with the positioning of the print outs on paper, then print the design on the transfer paper itself
- HP dark transfer paper states "Set Print quality to BEST" [for HP Iron-On Transfer]
- Check printing directions for the type of transfer you are using. Normally, dark transfers print normally and White transfers should be reversed before printing.

13) let the design "set up" on the paper for a day
- not sure this is absolute but won't hurt if you've got the time built into your timeline

14) 'trim' around the design otherwise the un-used or un-printed white backgrounds will show on the shirt

15) take the transfer, parchment paper, shirt, and iron to a flat, hard surface
- coffee table ideal b'c it's lower and you can hover over the iron
- dining room table or floor can be used as long as you protect it
- note - I used the coffee table protected with a pillowcase folded double - TOOK THE FINISH RIGHT OFF THE SURFACE!

16) while heating up the iron (follow the directions on the transfer package), [for dark transfers] remove the transfer from the backing before you iron it on the shirt then put parchment paper on top of the transfer before you iron it. (You can use a ruler to position the transfer on the shirt or just "eye ball" it. I used 5-6" on adult t's - depending on size of shirt and less for kids' t's.)
- These directions are for Dark Transfer shirts as the ironing is a little different for white transfers (not much, just a little (i.e., you DON't take the back off for white transfers)
- make sure all of the paper is off the back including at the point where the two sides of the paper meet; sometimes a little bit is left that needs to be taken off before ironing
- I left my iron heat up for at least 8 minutes before starting

17) iron the transfer onto the shirt using parchment paper (provided by the transfer mfr.) between the transfer and the iron
- FOLLOW THE MFR. DIRECTIONS to the letter!
- while prepping the shirt (i.e., making sure the tee is flat and not wrinkled, be sure to keep the transfer AWAY from the hot iron!)
- make sure the transfers is flat, centered, and straight and there are no corners bent under
- make sure you iron long enough so the transfer not only comes off the transfer but ADHERES to the shirt
- make sure you let the transfer "cool down" before trying to lift the parchment paper off the transfer (the tissue paper should lift right off with NO problem; if the tissue paper feels like it's "sticking" to the transfer that's a sure indication that you haven't let the transfer cool enough)

18) wash shirt in a vinegar wash (some folks skip this step and step 19 and it turns out fine; personally I didn't skip it so that's why you see it here - it's your call... and questionable whether it will run in the rain with or without the vinegar wash)
- 1 cup vinegar in the washer only, nothing else, just the shirt(s) and vinegar, no detergent no fabric softener (and the water of course) and put it through it's regular wash cycle
- if you're concerned about a vinegar smell, you can use a second rinse cycle
- I turned my tees inside out before washing
- I've read that the purpose of the vinegar wash is to bring out the bright colors. As an fyi, additional info found online stated that the acid in white distilled vinegar is too mild to harm fabrics, yet strong enough to dissolve the alkalies in soaps and detergents.
- some folks have reported that their shirts "bled" after doing this vinegar wash (my thought is I'd rather it bleed at home than in a rainstorm at Disney); I can't say for sure why the bleeding occurs occasionally but I suspect it may have something to do with holding the iron to the transfer either too long or having the iron too hot as I did 20 "Incredibles" themed shirts and the first few bled but then when I spent less time with the iron on the transfer the later ones did not bleed. All I can say is this is just a theory, your results may vary (YRMV).

19) If doing step 18, then dry the shirt on a low heat setting *
- Not no heat, it needs SOME heat!
- If only drying a couple of shirts, put a towel or two in the dryer to keep the shirt from bunching up

20) Post pix back to the boards to thank the Dis-igners for sharing their talents and surprise the family
- if taking a pix indoors, the pix looks better if you can turn off the flash and set the camera to "macro" then get close enough to read the design but also see the "look" of the tee (i.e., the collar, sleeves, etc.)

Sit back, and enjoy! :yay:

A word of advice... don't underestimate the amount of time you need to make these shirts; there's a lot of steps involved. Add a couple extra days to your timeline to allow for snafus!

* some folks say they Scotchgard the shirts (inside & outside) before wearing them to help protect them from bleeding. Personally, I haven't done this and two of my shirts bled when the wearer used Purell to disinfect their hands! LOL

I hope this helps everyone who isn't familiar with the steps required. I've attempted to keep up with any modifications offered by the posts made after this initial post so you don't have to read every post in this thread (well, at least through post #321 that is). You're more than welcome to read each post or just go to the bottom to post your question and hopefully someone experienced may be able to answer; however, if you don't get a timely response, feel free to post your question into a separate, new thread as I do not monitor this thread daily and it sometimes gets buried 10 pages down or more!

[The Disney Bunch]

Thank you! This is just what I need!!

[heartbeeps]

Thank you! This is just what I need!!

yeah, me too but I'm figuring it out the looong way! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:
(reading a trillion threads!)

[chaoscent]

Probably not necessary to add these, but
if doing a dark transfer you need to remove the transfer from the backing before you iron it on the shirt. I have tried ironing it on without removing it & it doesn't work. :lmao:

Before ironing make sure transfer is not upside down (Yup, made that mistake also.)

Don't forget to put the tissue paper sheet on top of the transfer before you iron it. (forgot it once, it is VERY difficult to clean the iron of the transfer material, it was easier to buy a new iron).

No matter how many shirts I make (now over 100) I invariably mess one up each trip. :confused3

Maybe this time I will print out your directions and tick them off as I go through each shirt. :rolleyes1

Have fun, Penny:hippie:

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

Be sure you buy the right transfers! (I have learned this the hard way!)
* If you are putting the design on a white shirt - you can use either light or dark transfers.
* On any other color shirt - use dark transfers or else ALL white areas of the design will be the shirt color.
* Dark transfers tend to have more vibrant colors and are more of a matte finish and light transfers are more shiny.

~ALSO~

Be sure to pay close attention to whether or not the design needs to be rotated. Most light transfers you NEED to rotate or flip the design and most dark transfers you do NOT. But this is not a rule, read your directions very carefully.

[Disneymommy2006]

I have made some shirts (not all) for my trip but I read somewhere that the vinegar step was not necessary until you wash after wearing the t-shirts. Is that true? Someone mentioned the t's look crisp and new if you don't do that step until you return home? Anyone have experience with this or advice?

[heartbeeps]

Probably not necessary to add these, but
if doing a dark transfer you need to remove the transfer from the backing before you iron it on the shirt. I have tried ironing it on without removing it & it doesn't work. :lmao: Before ironing make sure transfer is not upside down (Yup, made that mistake also.)Don't forget to put the tissue paper sheet on top of the transfer before you iron it. (forgot it once, it is VERY difficult to clean the iron of the transfer material, it was easier to buy a new iron).

OMG :scared1: I had NO idea. Thank you so much for adding these tips! I updated step 16 accordingly.

[heartbeeps]

I have made some shirts (not all) for my trip but I read somewhere that the vinegar step was not necessary until you wash after wearing the t-shirts. Is that true? Someone mentioned the t's look crisp and new if you don't do that step until you return home? Anyone have experience with this or advice?

maybe somebody can confirm. I'm assuming we're talking about WHITE vinegar here and I'm wondering if you wash it a 2nd time to get the vinegar-y smell out after setting it with the vinegar wash.

[heartbeeps]

I just printed my first transfer. HP Dark transfer instructions state
"Set Print Quality to BEST" (as opposed to Normal or Light on your printer).
There was some question about this in another thread. We now know the answer for HP (but they also sell INK so perhaps they just want us to waste more ink than we have to!) :rotfl2:

[heartbeeps]

if you've never done this before, and you don't have a lot of artistic talent, you might want to stick to the boxed or framed style designs the first couple of times. I'm currently cutting out the "extra white" on 20 Mickey heads by hand and it's tedious and time consuming. (I was going to have a head on the front and back of the shirt but changed that strategy quickly after having to cut the button out on top of the safari hat with fly tying scissors!)

[heartbeeps]

Supplies needed once the design is made -


design
transfer paper
computer
printer
a software program to view/modify/print the design from
fresh ink cartridges (buy an extra of black & color in case there's a problem)
scissors (multi sizes help - especially ones that cut in small spaces)
a paper cutter would really help by cutting down on the amount of freehand trimming required; if not a straight edge would probably be helpful too!
iron
flat, hard surface like a coffee table
a pillowcase


ok that's as far as I am right now; I'll post more when I get there!

[Terry36]

popcorn::

[DisneyMom92]

maybe somebody can confirm. I'm assuming we're talking about WHITE vinegar here and I'm wondering if you wash it a 2nd time to get the vinegar-y smell out after setting it with the vinegar wash.

OK, yes, you use white vinegar. Can do an xtra rinse if you are afraid of the smell. Can do upon first wash if you don't mind the risk of it running if you are caught out in a sudden rain storm. I have never had one fade so much it didn't still loook new.

[heartbeeps]

I have made some shirts (not all) for my trip but I read somewhere that the vinegar step was not necessary until you wash after wearing the t-shirts. Is that true? Someone mentioned the t's look crisp and new if you don't do that step until you return home? Anyone have experience with this or advice?

Disneymom92 confirmed that you "could" wait until after you wear them the first time but there is risk in doing so that the shirts could run. I confirmed with a crafter today that the purpose of washing them in white vinegar (thank you Disneymom92) is to "set" the color so it doesn't run. It was explained to me in terms of doing the same thing when you color eggs - use vinegar to set the color!

After confirmation from Disneymom92, I'm doing the vinegar wash with a 2nd rinse BEFORE we wear them. (Be just my luck it'll rain the day we're wearing them and we'll all look like cameleons! :laughing: ) I updated step 18 accordingly!

BTW, I'm now bouncing back and forth between steps 12 and 14 getting all my transfers printed out.

[Disneymommy2006]

Thanks for the info...I will do the vinegar wash too. On our last trip to Disney in 2006 there were a few PM rain showers...:thumbsup2

[goofydebi]

Does anyone know what I did wrong? The red "bled" through on my designs. I think I will just not use red shirts anymore. LOL This was after I messed up about 3 sheets of paper. :confused3

[GoofySon'sMom]

Ok, I know that this is a really dumb question ...

Can you wash several shirts together when you do the vinegar wash? Several different colored shirts together, no whites?

Or does each shirt have to be washed separately? :confused3

[Disneymommy2006]

I also had a problem with red shirts. I used the transfers for dark t's but it still bled through the white parts of the disign....if anyone knows how to fix this or what the problem is-I'd like to know too!

[goofydebi]

I used the transfers for dark too. I would really like to do them over because the transfer looks really good on the red, but not if it is going to keep doing this. It is the stick figure family, so there is alot of white umm i mean red :)

[alexis_fate]

Ok I am a total newbie at this!!! I also know enough about computers just to be dangerous. :rotfl:
Ok to my strange questions.
#1 If I find a design or someone customizes one for me, how do I save it? Right click and save picture?
#2 Once I have saved it what kind of program does it need to be opened in to print?
#3 If it needs to be resized could I do it in the program that I opened it in?

Any other info for someone new to this would be great!!!

Thanks in advance I am sure these are really dumb questions but I have no idea where to start.

Thanks,
Tracy

[walkerag]

Ok I am a total newbie at this!!! I also know enough about computers just to be dangerous. :rotfl:
Ok to my strange questions.
#1 If I find a design or someone customizes one for me, how do I save it? Right click and save picture?
#2 Once I have saved it what kind of program does it need to be opened in to print?
#3 If it needs to be resized could I do it in the program that I opened it in?

Any other info for someone new to this would be great!!!

Thanks in advance I am sure these are really dumb questions but I have no idea where to start.

Thanks,
Tracy


I just right clicked the image and copied and pasted it into a word document and that worked fine for me. I was able to resize the image as needed. I had to go into print under the file tab and then into properties to select mirror image (for my light transfers) and the paper type. :thumbsup2
I will also add that if you like the "vintage" look you can use a light transfer on a light or pastel colored shirt. The fabric color will show through the transfer. I did this on a Bambi pillowcase I made for my DD6 for our trip coming up in May. It was lavender and it came out really good. Like I said kindof vintage looking :)

[heartbeeps]

I used the transfers for dark too. I would really like to do them over because the transfer looks really good on the red, but not if it is going to keep doing this. It is the stick figure family, so there is alot of white umm i mean red :)

did you wash the red shirts (with just detergent) before ironing on the transfers?

[heartbeeps]

Ok, I know that this is a really dumb question ...

Can you wash several shirts together when you do the vinegar wash? Several different colored shirts together, no whites?

Or does each shirt have to be washed separately? :confused3

I plan on washing all my yellow tees (with the red transfer) in the same "load" of vinegar wash at the same time unless I hear otherwise here. ANYONE know anything different? (I'll stick PINS in my eyes if I have to hand wash 30+ shirts by hand!) :scared1:

Then I'll wash all the pink shirts together. I do not plan on putting hte pink shirts w/designs ironed on in the same load as the yellow shirts with red designs - I'm not that much of a risk taker! :lmao: If we don't get our answer from another reader, stay tuned - I'll let you know how mine turn out!

[heartbeeps]

I also had a problem with red shirts. I used the transfers for dark t's but it still bled through the white parts of the disign....if anyone knows how to fix this or what the problem is-I'd like to know too!

did you wash the tees before you ironed the transfers on?

[heartbeeps]

Ok I am a total newbie at this!!! I also know enough about computers just to be dangerous. :rotfl:
Ok to my strange questions.
#1 If I find a design or someone customizes one for me, how do I save it? Right click and save picture?
#2 Once I have saved it what kind of program does it need to be opened in to print?
#3 If it needs to be resized could I do it in the program that I opened it in?

we all start somewhere - I'm only about 2 steps ahead of you! :rotfl2:
Here's what I did (not sure how this compares to any standard but it's what I did just the same) -
#1 - ideally, you'd want to go to their photobucket, click on the pix, then click on it a 2nd time to get it to display at 100% so you get the best image possible to work from. Then right click to "save pix as" and dropped it in my file folder.
#2 - Although I "could" open and print by double clicking on the jpg image, I have Camedia software (which came free with my Olympus digital camera) and used that to open the design just as if I was opening a digital photo. From there I was able to do some very basic rudamentary customization like adding a name to a design before printing.
#3 - I was able to "resize" using Camedia.
good luck and ask away, we're all students in training! :hug:

[DisneyMom92]

I plan on washing all my yellow tees (with the red transfer) in the same "load" of vinegar wash at the same time unless I hear otherwise here. ANYONE know anything different? (I'll stick PINS in my eyes if I have to hand wash 30+ shirts by hand!) :scared1:

Then I'll wash all the pink shirts together. I do not plan on putting hte pink shirts w/designs ironed on in the same load as the yellow shirts with red designs - I'm not that much of a risk taker! :lmao: If we don't get our answer from another reader, stay tuned - I'll let you know how mine turn out!



OK, you can wash the same shirts together in the vinegar wash that you would wash together in normal wash. In otherwords, I wouldn't wash a red shirt with a yellow shirt, but I might wash a red shirt with a navy shirt and a yellow shirt with other pastels. Make sense? It will be much easier for you if you wash several shirts together, or rather, dry them together, because they will bunch up if you don't have enough shirts in and that will ruin your design. I always throw a few dry towels in to prevent this from happening.



As far as the "bleeding" of red....please explain more or post pictures...are you saying a red shirt came through on a dark transfer, the ink from the transfer bled when you ironed it on?

[Disneymommy2006]

Heartbeeps, Yes I did wash all the t's before I ironed on the transfers- I did 2 red shirts- one bled the other turned out fine:scared1:

[Disneymommy2006]

Heartbeeps-I'll try and post a photo but don't have time before work this AM- Let me explain I had a mickey disign- either one of Amy or Pat's. It was mickey's face with a white background (circle) with yellow border and the word smile written all around the circle... anyway the white background turned pinkish brown almost like the red of the shirt bled through the transfer??? Maybe red shirts need more than one prior washing since they tend to do this????

[goofydebi]

I also washed mine before ironing on the transfer. Gave my camera away so I am not able to take picture right now. It was not the red in the design. I believe it was the shirt. I have always washed red shirts seperately when they were new. I think I should have washed these twice. Also I read on a website that you shouldn't wash your shirts before you wear them the first time because they will never look as good. So now am wondering about the vinegar wash. I am assuming that everyones shirts look fine after washing them???

[Benducci]

Does everyone wash their shirts first? I have never done that- it would seem to be that if you wash them they lose that crisp look

[heartbeeps]

Does everyone wash their shirts first? I have never done that- it would seem to be that if you wash them they lose that crisp look

I definitely washed mine before putting the transfer on; I can't stand the chemicals they use to make clothing so I always wash before using. They're not crisp only b'c they're not ironed at this point. I'd rather have a little uncrisp then runny shirts in WDW!

Personally, I can't say what happened to the PPs' red shirts explained above. Anyone else wanna take a crack at it?

[DisneyMom92]

As far as the red shirts bleeding, my guess is that the red dye wasn't sufficiently washed out before the transfer was ironed on. It's possible that there was steam in the iron that precipitated the bleeding. Not sure there.

As far as washing t-shirts before putting the transfer on....it's really a necessary step. When they make the shirt for sale in the store they put a sizing on it to make it lay nice and not wrinkle too bad. This sizing will keep the transfer from adhering well. All shirts should be washed first with detergent only, no fabric softener in washer or dryer (ie, dryer sheets).

The vinegar wash is not supposed to be necessary any more, but a lot of people are reporting bleeding or running of their transfers. That's why I brought up the vinegar wash, which you do with any paint or dye job that you might do in (ie, air brushing) in addition to the iron on transfer.

[GoofySon'sMom]

I'm sorry ... one more probably dumb question. I know that if the shirts are washed in vinegar after the transfer is ironed on, they need to be dried on low. Do the shirts have to be dried after the first wash with detergent only? I am worried about too much shrinking.

THANK YOU all again! I ordered two shirts from JiffyShirts to check them for size and to make my first attempt at the transfer. I can't wait til they get here! :goodvibes

[DisneyMom92]

The pre-wash needs to be done the same way you are going to wash them later, that includes during the vinegar wash. You don't want your shirt to shrink after the transfer is on because then the transfer will bubble.

[heartbeeps]

thanks for all the advise DisneyMom92; we all really appreciate your experience!

[Disneymommy2006]

Yes, Thanks! I think I will give red another try but wash a couple of times before I apply the transfer...I'll let you know how this works out:thumbsup2

[The Disney Bunch]

I am going to order my shirts today from Jiffy shirts - does anyone know how long they take to come in? I want enough time to wash them before I do the transfers.

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

I am going to order my shirts today from Jiffy shirts - does anyone know how long they take to come in? I want enough time to wash them before I do the transfers.

If I remember correctly, I had mine in a couple days or so. They were very quick!

[Disneymommy2006]

Me too- they came much quicker than I expected:cool1:

[The Disney Bunch]

Not to be a nudge- are they better quality than the ones that Michael's or AC Moore are selling? Thanks!

[heartbeeps]

Not to be a nudge- are they better quality than the ones that Michael's or AC Moore are selling? Thanks!

I can't answer about jiffyshirts; I ordered mine from shirtsupplier.com but I can say that I was pleased with the quality of the shirts. I couldn't find any defects on the 28 shirts I ordered! :cool1: The brands I ordered were Anvil (women's cut), Gildan (mens & ladies), and Hanes tagless (mens). I asked sis what size shirt she wore and she said SMALL. Unfortunately, I didn't specify I was ordering Women's shirts for the females and there's NO way she'd wear a small in a ladies shirt! So back to the web site to order more! :rotfl2:

The one thing I noted about the ones at MIchael's. I could only find white and black 100% cotton at Michaels. Everything else was a blend so I passed on buying them there even though they were on sale for $2.99.

[DisneyMom92]

I also used www.shirtsupplier.com and was extremely happy with their quality. Good luck with whatever you choose.

[heartbeeps]

As of 4/6/08, I'm at multiple steps #10 (wasted some ink & transfer paper b'c of a typo), 14 (the Mickey heads are tedious to trim so I saved them for last; doing the easy square designs first to feel a sense of accomplishment), and step 18 now. Also, updated info contained in steps 10, 12, 16, 17.

SEE POST #1 for step-by-step guidelines

[heartbeeps]

dup post; deleted

[DisneyMom92]

Looks like a great how to for beginners. :thumbsup2 Maybe they could make this a sticky and alleviate some of the questions.

[chaoscent]

For #7, add in
Check printing directions for the type of transfer you are using. Normally, dark transfers print normally and White transfers should be reversed before printing. Also, you DON't take the back off for white transfers. Or better yet, net these are directions for Dark Transfer shirts as the ironing is a little different for white transfers (not much, just a little)
Nice job, I am going to use it as a check list and I have done many, many shirts. Thank you. Penny:hippie:

[heartbeeps]

For #7, add in
Check printing directions for the type of transfer you are using. Normally, dark transfers print normally and White transfers should be reversed before printing. Also, you DON't take the back off for white transfers. Or better yet, net these are directions for Dark Transfer shirts as the ironing is a little different for white transfers (not much, just a little)
Nice job, I am going to use it as a check list and I have done many, many shirts. Thank you. Penny:hippie:


steps updated - see post 1; thanks for the advice.

[DisneyMom92]

:wizard: bumping because a lo t of questions are coming up again.

[heartbeeps]

:surfweb: ok, here goes - Mr. First tees... 2 done ~40 to go! :scared1:

ok I can't figure out how to rotate the pix 1/4 turn; I've tried both the "insert link" icon as well as the "insert image" icon and both put my pix sideways. (Ok that's how I captured the image BUT I did edit and save it to the proper direction.) Can anyone tell me what I'm doing wrong! stuck on step 20! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

[GoofySon'sMom]

:surfweb: ok, here goes - Mr. First tees... 2 done ~40 to go! :scared1:

ok I can't figure out how to rotate the pix 1/4 turn; I've tried both the "insert link" icon as well as the "insert image" icon and both put my pix sideways. (Ok that's how I captured the image BUT I did edit and save it to the proper direction.) Can anyone tell me what I'm doing wrong! stuck on step 20! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

Just wanted to say that I am even more computer clueless than I am shirt making clueless but I can't wait to see your shirts! My vote is just to post them sideways & we can all tilt! :rotfl:

[Leonsmom]

Okay this scares me.
I need to make 30 shirts and there is no way I can do this.
I am wondering if I can pay someone? I was thinking of going to a local shirt place in the flea market to se if they would do it? I wonder how much they would charge if they would do it at all.
The other thing I looked in to was a press iron.
Boy are they expensive!
it's a shame that I can do the designs but am afraid to make my own shirts.
Me and ironing DO NOT get along

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

Okay this scares me.
I need to make 30 shirts and there is no way I can do this.
I am wondering if I can pay someone? I was thinking of going to a local shirt place in the flea market to se if they would do it? I wonder how much they would charge if they would do it at all.
The other thing I looked in to was a press iron.
Boy are they expensive!
it's a shame that I can do the designs but am afraid to make my own shirts.
Me and ironing DO NOT get along

Jill,
Don't be afraid, it is very easy! I know it is scary at first because you are afraid of ruining a shirt or transfer but after you do one, you'll see how easy it truely is. If you are that concerned, buy an extra shirt or trial shirt that you won't care if it gets ruined. Don't pay someone to do it until you have at least attempted a trial shirt.

As you said, if you can master designing, you can certainly do the iron on thing - it's easy and very rewarding when they are completed!

[heartbeeps]

ok, here's a couple of shirts that I've completed so far (6 of the first batch of 24 done; 18 still need a final press before shipping out to the family. Transfers printed for all of the 2nd batch of 19 but these all need to be ironed on, vinegar washed, and final pressed. And, of course, they need to be compelted before the end of the month and shipped around the country to various family members so they can plan their wardrobes accordingly! :scared1: )

each shirt will have it's own post in case folks want to make specific comments about a specific shirt -


DESIGN BY RUMBLY TUMBLY (I added the message on top myself using a very basic Olympus Camedia photo program... and yes, I wanted the "i" to be lower case and the other letters to be UPPER CASE!) -
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Incredible%20Tees/P4100002.jpg

this is a women's shirt - PURCHASED FROM SHIRTSUPPLIER.COM (Color = yellow haze)

Note - I did not use the ironing board [in the background] for the transfers; just the final pressing and photo shoot. :rotfl2:

[heartbeeps]

DESIGN BY WILLISE - thank you for being so patient with me!

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Incredible%20Tees/P4100004.jpg

this is a men's shirt by shirtsupplier.com - color = "Daisy"

[heartbeeps]

DESIGN BY WILLISE -

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Incredible%20Tees/P4100005.jpg

this is a small adult shirt purchased from shirtsupplier.com. Color = yellow haze. BTW, the ladies small is quite a bit smaller than the men's small; different brands, too. Perhaps I'll be able to photograph both of them together so you can see the difference. (later)

[DisneyMom92]

Your shirts turned out great! I love to see the final products. So fun.

[heartbeeps]

"Gothic" tee :scared1 DESIGN BY PATNL34 (no longer designing). I added the name in Tink's wing myself.

ok popcorn:: gotta work on the rotate issue again in photobucket. Will repost here later! grrrrrrrrrr

[worm761]

two questions

1. do the shirts have to be 100% cotton?
2. the vinigar wash? that is after you put the transfer on? or before? sorry, i am dense today.

[heartbeeps]

two questions

1. do the shirts have to be 100% cotton?
2. the vinigar wash? that is after you put the transfer on? or before? sorry, i am dense today.

1. folks on this board "recommended" 100% cotton. That's what I used except for one 50/50 which I bought at Dollar Tree. That T turned out ok as well. (I'll post it after it's ironed - it says "Pixie Princess" so look for it. The color looks FABULOUS!) I also asked a t shirt place what they use and they said 50/50 so maybe the 100% cotton isn't a hard-fast rule but just a recommendation? Anyone?

2. before you put the iron on to the shirt, you'll wash it in just detergent and dry it as you'd normally do. AFTER you put the iron on to the shirt, you'll wash it in JUST WHITE VINEGAR and water then dry it on low heat.

[heartbeeps]

Well finally able to upload this DESIGN BY PATNL34 (she is no longer designing)

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4120005-1.jpg

Men's small 100% cotton from shirtsupplier.com

I added the name on Tink's wing.

(Note, I took this pix with the FLASH OFF.)

[heartbeeps]

this tee was purchased from Dollar Tree for $1. I used it as a "practice" t.

DESIGN BY RUMBLY TUMBLY

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4120006.jpg


DOES ANYONE KNOW - see the white marks on the black head under the name? Anyone know the cause?

[alexis_fate]

I have access to 2 laser printers and no inkjet printers. I know that you have to have special transfer paper for laser jets. Has anyone used one that can recommend.
When reading about some I noticed some said must use heat press. Any info about printing on Laser printers would be great.
Thanks,
Tracy

[heartbeeps]

I have access to 2 laser printers and no inkjet printers. I know that you have to have special transfer paper for laser jets. Has anyone used one that can recommend.
When reading about some I noticed some said must use heat press. Any info about printing on Laser printers would be great.

Tracy, you might want to make this it's own thread as I'm not sure the experienced crafters will be reading this thread. Would hate to not have your question answered.

[DisneyMom92]

I have access to 2 laser printers and no inkjet printers. I know that you have to have special transfer paper for laser jets. Has anyone used one that can recommend.
When reading about some I noticed some said must use heat press. Any info about printing on Laser printers would be great.
Thanks,
Tracy

My understanding with making t-shirts from a laser printer is that because of the heat of laser the transfers need a higher heat to transfer, if that makes sense. Therefore a heat press would be necessary. I know you can buy home use heat presses now but I am not sure how much they are. It might be cheaper to buy a $50 inkjet printer for crafting purposes. I have my own crafting iron, never gets water and does not have the nonstick surface.

Hope this helps.

[DisneyMom92]

this tee was purchased from Dollar Tree for $1. I used it as a "practice" t.

DESIGN BY RUMBLY TUMBLY

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4120006.jpg


DOES ANYONE KNOW - see the white marks on the black head under the name? Anyone know the cause?

It's just a guess, but either... you didn't iron long enough or iron wasn't hot enough or you didn't have enough in your dryer and it bunched up. It could be any of those or a combination. Make sure your iron heats up before you do the transferring, make sure your transfer cools (if that's the type of transfer you are using) completely, and make sure you are ironing as long or slightly longer than the directions say. If you are doing the vinegar wash, make sure that there is enough in the dryer that the shirt stays tossing by adding a few dry towels to the dryer.

Hope this helps.

[heartbeeps]

My understanding with making t-shirts from a laser printer is that because of the heat of laser the transfers need a higher heat to transfer, if that makes sense. Therefore a heat press would be necessary. I know you can buy home use heat presses now but I am not sure how much they are. It might be cheaper to buy a $50 inkjet printer for crafting purposes. I have my own crafting iron, never gets water and does not have the nonstick surface.

Hope this helps.

the cheapest [unused] heat press I saw for home use was ~$300... OUT OF MY BUDGET! :scared1: Of course, they have many more for a lot more money than that, too!

[heartbeeps]

It's just a guess, but either... you didn't iron long enough or iron wasn't hot enough or you didn't have enough in your dryer and it bunched up. It could be any of those or a combination. Make sure your iron heats up before you do the transferring, make sure your transfer cools (if that's the type of transfer you are using) completely, and make sure you are ironing as long or slightly longer than the directions say. If you are doing the vinegar wash, make sure that there is enough in the dryer that the shirt stays tossing by adding a few dry towels to the dryer.

Hope this helps.

maybe I didn't iron long enough (although much longer than HP's directions). The iron was definitely hot enough - I've hardly turned it off over the past few days. (I can't WAIT to see my electric bill this month :laundy: .) This tee hasn't gone through the vinegar wash yet. I'm gonna try to iron some more and see if it disappears.

BTW, I did see with the black Mickey heads where not ironing enough makes the black appear like a charcoal gray. Continued ironing brings it to its true black color. I'll be posting pix of that phenomena before and after later this week. Very interesting!

Thanks for the ideas. I'll see how the add'l ironing works. I was afraid to do it on this tee b'c it didn't look the like ones that started out charcoal gray; I was afraid the more I ironed the WORSE it would look! (Not really sure WHAT I was afraid of popcorn:: , the tee cost me one buck and this kind of problem was exactly what I bought it for!)

[DisneyMom92]

maybe I didn't iron long enough (although much longer than HP's directions). The iron was definitely hot enough - I've hardly turned it off over the past few days. (I can't WAIT to see my electric bill this month :laundy: .) This tee hasn't gone through the vinegar wash yet. I'm gonna try to iron some more and see if it disappears.

BTW, I did see with the black Mickey heads where not ironing enough makes the black appear like a charcoal gray. Continued ironing brings it to its true black color. I'll be posting pix of that phenomena before and after later this week. Very interesting!

Thanks for the ideas. I'll see how the add'l ironing works. I was afraid to do it on this tee b'c it didn't look the like ones that started out charcoal gray; I was afraid the more I ironed the WORSE it would look! (Not really sure WHAT I was afraid of popcorn:: , the tee cost me one buck and this kind of problem was exactly what I bought it for!)


I never thought of the black doing that, I knew that bright red did. I guess it's a matter of all the ink getting from the transfer to the shirt, maybe? Who knows.

As far as re-ironing, I have never scorched a transfer, although I have heard of it being done. I think as long as you keep the iron moving you should be fine.

[alexis_fate]

Thanks for your answers, I think I am just going to buy a cheap inkjet. My dad gave me 2 HP color catridges and I will just buy the printer to go with them.
Tracy

[heartbeeps]

this is an example of a tee that has not had the iron applied long enough - see the lighter gray areas of the black Mickey head? I'll post another pix to show how it looks (completely black) when you continue to iron longer.

DESIGN BY WDWPSP


http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4120010.jpg

printed on Women's tank top from jiffyshirt.com - sizes ran a little large; had to return for a size smaller.

[heartbeeps]

this post is a place holder for posting the Minnie breakthrough Mickey head when ironed properly. Pix to be uploaded in a couple of days.

[heartbeeps]

this tee was purchased at the Dollar store (for a buck of course). I bought a few of these just to "practice." I don't recall who's design this artwork is from; I added the words myself to the top and bottom.

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4120007.jpg

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

Does anyone know what I did wrong? The red "bled" through on my designs. I think I will just not use red shirts anymore. LOL This was after I messed up about 3 sheets of paper. :confused3

I am not sure what brand of transfers you are using but...

I just tried out the HP transfers that I bought online like many others on here.

Their directions said to iron 20 sec on each pass pressing lightly, then another 20 on each pass pressing firmly. The first shirt I did following these directions (actually I only did it a total of like 30-35 sec each pass) and the red of the shirt started to bleed through the transfer.

I did 4 more shirts ironing for only 10 sec each pass pressing firmly and then a few extra seconds around the edges and NO PROBLEMS!

I think that the problem is that their directions are not accurate. Try ironing a lot less.

Hopefully this may help someone else from making the same mistake.

[DisneyMom92]

I am not sure what brand of transfers you are using but...

I just tried out the HP transfers that I bought online like many others on here.

Their directions said to iron 20 sec on each pass pressing lightly, then another 20 on each pass pressing firmly. The first shirt I did following these directions (actually I only did it a total of like 30-35 sec each pass) and the red of the shirt started to bleed through the transfer.

I did 4 more shirts ironing for only 10 sec each pass pressing firmly and then a few extra seconds around the edges and NO PROBLEMS!

I think that the problem is that their directions are not accurate. Try ironing a lot less.

Hopefully this may help someone else from making the same mistake.

I iron just until the backing slips off. Some brands that's longer than others. I iron the outside first and last and then zig zag down the transfer top to bottom, then around edges and check. If the backing doesn't come off easily, then I repeat the above process. I can't say about red, because it's been years since I did a red shirt, but mine don't bleed or fade and I've done a lot of darker shirts.

Hope this helps. It really does get easier with practice.

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

I iron just until the backing slips off. Some brands that's longer than others. I iron the outside first and last and then zig zag down the transfer top to bottom, then around edges and check. If the backing doesn't come off easily, then I repeat the above process. I can't say about red, because it's been years since I did a red shirt, but mine don't bleed or fade and I've done a lot of darker shirts.

Hope this helps. It really does get easier with practice.

Thanks for your help!

I have actually had really good success with transfers. This was the first time I used the HP brand and what I was trying to say is that it was their directions.

When I followed their directions, the colors started changing on the transfer which is when I stopped but it was already too late. When I did them for a fraction of the time, they looked incredible.

I just wanted to give everyone a heads up on here because I know that a lot of people bought those transfers when they were on special.

[goofydebi]

That's the transfers that I used. It did that on the 3 red shirts that I did. I think that I did iron too long. Wanted to make sure it was long enough I guess. I bought several more shirts (no more red) just need to make myself get busy maybe this weekend and give it another try.

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

That's the transfers that I used. It did that on the 3 red shirts that I did. I think that I did iron too long. Wanted to make sure it was long enough I guess. I bought several more shirts (no more red) just need to make myself get busy maybe this weekend and give it another try.

Try ironing for less time than the directions. Mine turned out fabulous!

I can't wait to wash them and see if they wash well.

[heartbeeps]

In case you're interested in my t shirt experience, read on:

I bought my "first" batch from shirtsupplier.com - some Gildans, Hanes, & Anvil. Then I bought my "second" batch from jiffyshirts.com - Gildans & Hanes. From both places I only purchased 100% cotton.

Shirtsupplier - I found a pinhole in a couple of the Gildans from shirtsupplier... but not until I was doing the final touch ironing.

Jiffyshirts - I didn't see any on the ones from Jiffyshirt.

Dollar Tree - I bought a few kids small t shirts on sale at the Dollar Tree ($1/ea.); I used these to "practice" on. They worked fine.

Michaels - I also bought two kids tees at Michaels on sale for $2.99/ea. I was afraid to buy more there because they only had 50/50 cotton/poly in the sizes and colors I needed. However, the 50/50 look just as good in my opinion and didn't need much pressing either. (Folks had strongly recommended 100% cotton so I did stick with that for the other 46 shirts! )

Return policies - I found that shirtsupplier has a restocking fee but jiffyshirts didn't if you were exchanging for size.

Recommendation - In the future, when I have large quantities to buy - or difficult colors to find - I'll probably go with Jiffyshirts.com. If I only need a few shirts, I'll probably just spend more and go to the local stores like Michaels and Wal-mart.

Colors - I found the tees I bought in the color gray barely needed a touch up whereas the yellow, greens, pinks, fuchsias, and tans all needed to be pressed when I was finished.

Shirt Weight - I bought a couple Hanes tagless 6.1 oz. but they are a heavier weight so I wouldn't recommend them for WDW, especially in the summer! I found the 5.6 oz. to be a "good" weight - especially for ladies as they're not too light and not heavyweight.

[heartbeeps]

Here's another completed shirt for my granddaughter.
DESIGN BY MICHELLE

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4120004-1.jpg

shirt from shirtsupplier.com. basic short sleeve t 100% cotton 5.6 oz. ANVIL in Azalea color in size "small" ladies - Anvil runs a tad on the small size.

The design was already customized for another little girl named Madison so no customization was needed! Thanks Michelle!

sorry I used the flash when I took this pix so it looks grainy but I've gotta tell you - it really looks great... especially on that "azalea" pink shirt.

[heartbeeps]

I bought to gray shirts from jiffyshirt.com - a ladies size L Gildan 6.1 oz. sport grey and a men's size L Gildan ultra 6.1 oz. sport grey tee. (Both 100% cotton.) Unfortunately, I didn't realize I grabbed the ladies' shirt and ironed on the man's pirate transfer until it was too late:scared1: . (The cut on the ladies' shirt is smaller AND the sleeves are much shorter than on the mens shirt.)

I tried to be very careful to make sure I had the right shirt for the proper recipient and used post it notes to mark each shirt; however, when I scooped up both of these shirts - in the same color - I took off the post-it notes and didn't realize I had the guy's shirt in my hand with the girl's transfer.

So I needed to figure out a way to "recover" my mistake. What I did was keep that design (thank goodness it was nameless) on the front, then put the princess/pirate design on the back. So the recipient will "match" her DH in the front but have a 2nd design on the back.

Here's the result:

DESIGN BY AMY!

front -
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4120012.jpg

I added the name "Jenny" to one ear on the back transfer using my digital camera photo program (Olympus Camedia). It's not sophisticated but it did the trick! :thumbsup2

back -
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4120013.jpg

I photographed this tee with a ruler to show how far I came down from the top of the back of the shirt (4.5"). Most shirts I placed the transfer on the back somewhere between 4.5 and 6.0 inches from the top of the shirt.

[Jaybird79]

Wow, this was great. I can't wait to make a shirt!

[heartbeeps]

This transfer was placed on a Gildan yellow haze ladies' t in size small. Again 100% cotton. Ordered from shirtsupplier.com

DESIGN BY WILLISE (I crudely changed the top word to "Celebrating")

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4120016.jpg

thanks Willise

[heartbeeps]

This is one of my favorite results - I feel like I picked the best color for this transfer - it really POPS! :thumbsup2 ... This is a Men's Small Gildan 100% cotton 5.4oz. mid-weight tee in the color of "lime."

DESIGN BY AMY (I added the name "Max" to Goofy's finger)


http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4120001.jpg

thanks Amy!

more to photograph, and more to post! .... another day...........

[lecach]

I bought the HP dark transfers and followed the instructions for ironing. My first two projects were tote bags and I had several problems.

I noticed the tissue paper got a little scorched - did I have my iron too hot? It goes 1-7 with 6 being the hottest cotton setting. So I set it on six.

Then when I went to peel off the tissue it stuck to the design. I was able to get it off without damaging the design though.

My design had a white background and I was using red tote bags. Some of the red bled through.

So - what did I do wrong? I want to make sure I do the shirts correctly.

Thanks!

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

Here's the result:
DESIGN BY MICHELLE!
front -
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4120012.jpg

back -
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4120013.jpg


These are actually both my designs...

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

I bought the HP dark transfers and followed the instructions for ironing. My first two projects were tote bags and I had several problems.

I noticed the tissue paper got a little scorched - did I have my iron too hot? It goes 1-7 with 6 being the hottest cotton setting. So I set it on six.

Then when I went to peel off the tissue it stuck to the design. I was able to get it off without damaging the design though.

My design had a white background and I was using red tote bags. Some of the red bled through.

So - what did I do wrong? I want to make sure I do the shirts correctly.

Thanks!

I posted my experience with these transfers. Go back and read post #73 and #77 of this thread. Hopefully it may help you.

[heartbeeps]

These are actually both my designs...

Sorry Amy; I thought I had it straight who did which design! I guess with more than 48 shirts, it's not as simple as it sounds. I updated my previous post to reflect you as the designer but not sure how/if I could update the title (doesn't appear that I can change it). Here's the pix again:

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4140026.jpg

Thanks again for the great designs! I'm bringing these pirate shirts down with me and giving them to the grown kids the day before with 2 tix so they can attend the party. I think it will blow them away that I'm giving them P&PP shirts first of all then to give them the tix that go with it! PRICELESS! Thanks for being part of it.

[heartbeeps]

DESIGN BY RUMBLY TUMBLY

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4140021.jpg

shirts purchased from jiffyshirts. "Pete" shirt is a man's Gildan 6.1oz. in "serene green". (Color is better than in the pix.) "Adie" shirt is a woman's Gildan 6.1 oz. in "pistachio." (again color is a tad off in the pix above.)

I found cutting around the little button on top of the safari hat as well as cutting around the edges of the brim to be a little tedious (when doing a whole lot) but it was essential as I was using dark transfers.

[heartbeeps]

Mickey Head design by Rumbly Tumbly (I added the name and date on this Mickey head.)

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4140023.jpg

shirt by jiffyshirts - Gildan's men's small in "serene green" 6.1 oz. 100% cotton.

These shirts have a design transferred on both the front AND the back. The design on the back of each shirt is the one of DAK - see pix below. (Sorry I don't recall where I got the DAK design.) Safari head with name across it and DAK inside the "face" is from Rumbly Tumbly once again! :thumbsup2

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4140019.jpg

[heartbeeps]

DESIGN BY PATNL34

I don't think I posted this image before. White Jerzees t shirt (size 6-8 kids) from the Dollar Tree.

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4190050.jpg

[heartbeeps]

This design is by Rumbly Tumbly

shirt from shirtsupplier.com, it's a Hanes Tagless 6.1 oz. 100% cotton in "sage". The tee color looks great (although it's a little washed out in this pix and almost looks gray).

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4190042.jpg

DH is rolling his eyes :rolleyes: about wearing all these shirts that make a fuss over him but he will LOVE EVERY MINUTE OF IT when it happens! :woohoo:

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

Sorry Amy; I thought I had it straight who did which design! I guess with more than 48 shirts, it's not as simple as it sounds. I updated my previous post to reflect you as the designer but not sure how/if I could update the title (doesn't appear that I can change it). Here's the pix again:

Thanks again for the great designs! I'm bringing these pirate shirts down with me and giving them to the grown kids the day before with 2 tix so they can attend the party. I think it will blow them away that I'm giving them P&PP shirts first of all then to give them the tix that go with it! PRICELESS! Thanks for being part of it.

I completely understand about getting mixed up - when I did my first shirts, I did 50+ shirts and I had little pieces of paper everywhere with designers names on them.

Your plan for surprising your kids sounds great! I am sure they will be thrilled - I know I would be. I am glad I have been able to be a part of it.

[heartbeeps]

I completely understand about getting mixed up - when I did my first shirts, I did 50+ shirts and I had little pieces of paper everywhere with designers names on them....

I am going to update the instructions in post #1 to include "write down the designer's handle for the design you select"!

(hindsight is 20/20! :rolleyes1 )

[arielchickenofthesea]

Never, ever forget to flip a transfer with lettering on it! I learned this the hard way the first time I made one. :scared1:

[heartbeeps]

Never, ever forget to flip a transfer with lettering on it! I learned this the hard way the first time I made one. :scared1:

let me correct that statement by saying ONLY FLIP TRANSFERS ON LIGHT TRANSFERS! There's no flipping required (or even wanted) on DARK TRANSFERS. This thread is "mostly" about the specific directions for DARK TRANSFERS that's why it doesn't mention flipping.

[a82allison]

Well, I finally ironed on my first designs, and so far so good! But I do have a quick question... If I want to iron on another design on the back, do I have to do anything special? The heat won't mess up the design on the front while I am ironing on the back will it?

Allison

[GoofySon'sMom]

Well, I finally ironed on my first designs, and so far so good! But I do have a quick question... If I want to iron on another design on the back, do I have to do anything special? The heat won't mess up the design on the front while I am ironing on the back will it?

Allison

I had read somewhere on this Board to put a cutting board inside the shirt when ironing on the back. That is what I did and they came out fine.

[a82allison]

Great idea! I was trying to think of something to put in between the layers but I couldn't figure out what to use. A cutting board will be perfect! Now I am ready to get home from work and iron some more designs..LOL

Thanks!

[chaoscent]

I also use a cutting board between the front/back. I have a press machine (my dh is a dear man who buys me stuff he thinks I will like. So for Christmas he bought me this big press machine to do my t-shirts. Well, I asked him to help me with the machine and he ended up doing most of the shirts last time. :thumbsup2 :lovestruc ) I wrap my cutting boad in a flannel pillow slip just to give it a little more protection.
Penny

[heartbeeps]

Well, I finally ironed on my first designs, and so far so good! But I do have a quick question... If I want to iron on another design on the back, do I have to do anything special? The heat won't mess up the design on the front while I am ironing on the back will it? Allison


I also put a cutting board between the two sides of the shirt

[heartbeeps]

bumping this up to the top b'c there are a few folks asking t-shirt making questions.

[chaoscent]

this is a good resource for making tshirts. :thumbsup2
Penny:hippie:

[heartbeeps]

this is a good resource for making tshirts. :thumbsup2 Penny:hippie:

thanks Penny. I tried my hand at the light transfers this weekend - UGH! not happy with the results. And I don't care for the Avery brand as they don't have a pre-cut down the back of the paper to make it easier to peel the transfer backing off. I'll go back to dark transfers and HP paper for sure after this episode!

I'm thinking about starting another thread that points out all of my mistakes! I've got quite a repetoire from ruining 9 transfers because the word "birthday" was misspelled and I didn't catch it to my latest trials and tribulations with Avery light transfers! LOL

[DisneyMom92]

thanks Penny. I tried my hand at the light transfers this weekend - UGH! not happy with the results. And I don't care for the Avery brand as they don't have a pre-cut down the back of the paper to make it easier to peel the transfer backing off. I'll go back to dark transfers and HP paper for sure after this episode!

I'm thinking about starting another thread that points out all of my mistakes! I've got quite a repetoire from ruining 9 transfers because the word "birthday" was misspelled and I didn't catch it to my latest trials and tribulations with Avery light transfers! LOL

What didn't you like about light transfers? I use them a lot. I only use dark transfers if I have to. I think they are stiffer than most light transfers. I don't use Avery brand, however.

[heartbeeps]

What didn't you like about light transfers? I use them a lot. I only use dark transfers if I have to. I think they are stiffer than most light transfers. I don't use Avery brand, however.

I couldn't tell if the design placement was perfect
I had a difficult time lifting the paper off the design
sometimes I peeled away not only the paper but part of my design
the image of the transfer was evident when I didn't use a white shirt
one design shredded in the dryer
there is no "seam" to help get the back off



#3 = see upper outer edge of Mickey's ear by the "k" in Frank
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/3e15b651.jpg
#4 = http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/1073403a.jpg

#5 = http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/33049c6c.jpg

[momofpirates]

I am so glad to hear that others have had problems with the peeling after the first wash. I didn't even think about just wearing them at the park and washing them afterwards. Instead I did the vinegar wash because I was afraid of the running. Instead of running, they are peeling in the middle of the designs, not the edges, like you'd think.

Has anyone ever tried putting a transfer over another? I am thinking of trying this.

Thanks
MOP

[Ning Ning]

bump

[heartbeeps]

about time to bring this back to page 1!

[carol-lamb]

I love this thread - so may helpful tips - but I'm still scared to death to make my first shirts. I just got my personalized stick figure family from Michelle and I was going to put it on red shirts (already purchased), but after reading about the possibility of them bleeding, I think I will exchange from for white ones. The whole background on that design is white so I don't want to take any chances of the red bleeding through. I got my shirts at Michaels last week when they were on sale for 2 for $5.00. They are the 50/50 blend, so I hope they will work.

I like the idea of buying a cheap shirt from the dollar store to practice on. I think that is what I will need to do to calm my fears!!!

Just to clarify one thing - even if I'm doing a design on a white shirt, I can still use the dark transfer paper - right? I read somewhere that a lot of people think the dark transfers are better than the light ones in that the colors come out better and the transfers hold up better in the wash.

I also don't think I'm going to wash my shirts after I apply the transfer because don't want to take the chance of ruining them in the wash before wearing them. I know I have to wash them BEFORE I iron on the transfer to remove the sizing.

I have read so many threads on making these shirts that's it's starting to get overwhelming. There are so many different opinions on types of shirts, transfers, how long to iron, whether or wash in vinegar, etc!!! I can't wait to start making my shirts. I am determined to do this.

Carol

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

I love this thread - so may helpful tips - but I'm still scared to death to make my first shirts. I just got my personalized stick figure family from Michelle and I was going to put it on red shirts (already purchased), but after reading about the possibility of them bleeding, I think I will exchange from for white ones. The whole background on that design is white so I don't want to take any chances of the red bleeding through. I got my shirts at Michaels last week when they were on sale for 2 for $5.00. They are the 50/50 blend, so I hope they will work.

I like the idea of buying a cheap shirt from the dollar store to practice on. I think that is what I will need to do to calm my fears!!!

Just to clarify one thing - even if I'm doing a design on a white shirt, I can still use the dark transfer paper - right? I read somewhere that a lot of people think the dark transfers are better than the light ones in that the colors come out better and the transfers hold up better in the wash.

I also don't think I'm going to wash my shirts after I apply the transfer because don't want to take the chance of ruining them in the wash before wearing them. I know I have to wash them BEFORE I iron on the transfer to remove the sizing.

I have read so many threads on making these shirts that's it's starting to get overwhelming. There are so many different opinions on types of shirts, transfers, how long to iron, whether or wash in vinegar, etc!!! I can't wait to start making my shirts. I am determined to do this.

Carol

Carol,
First of *remain calm*. After you have your first shirt completed, you will see how truely easy it is and wonder why you even worried so much. I know because I was in your shoes once.

I think the whole shirt bleeding issue has more to do with the transfers than the shirts. I have used some that were never an issue and only recently had the bleeding happen to me. I was using the HP transfers and seemed to remedy the situation by ironing a lot less than stated in the directions.

So, if you like the shirt design on red, my advice would be to try it on one first. If it doesn't work, than you are only out one transfer and shirt but if it does work, than I think you'll like them better on red.

Yes, you can definitely use dark transfers on a white tshirt. I use dark for any shirt color I am using for the reasons you already mentioned.

And personally speaking, I also do not wash my shirts again until after my trip and have never done the vinegar wash.

I hope somehow I have helped.

[carol-lamb]

Carol,
First of *remain calm*. After you have your first shirt completed, you will see how truely easy it is and wonder why you even worried so much. I know because I was in your shoes once.

I think the whole shirt bleeding issue has more to do with the transfers than the shirts. I have used some that were never an issue and only recently had the bleeding happen to me. I was using the HP transfers and seemed to remedy the situation by ironing a lot less than stated in the directions.

So, if you like the shirt design on red, my advice would be to try it on one first. If it doesn't work, than you are only out one transfer and shirt but if it does work, than I think you'll like them better on red.

Yes, you can definitely use dark transfers on a white tshirt. I use dark for any shirt color I am using for the reasons you already mentioned.

And personally speaking, I also do not wash my shirts again until after my trip and have never done the vinegar wash.

I hope somehow I have helped.


Thanks for responding. I really need the encouragement!!

I bought the HP dark transfers already. I also just noticed that my stick figure family design has a red border so it will probably look better on a white shirt. For some reason, I thought it had a black border. I have a polka dot minnie mouse head design that has a black border and would look good on a red shirt, so I will try that one. I have to try at least one red shirt just to prove that I can do it.

My 15 year old daughter is sitting here laughing at me. I have all these designs printed on regular paper and I'm trying to decide which ones I want to make into shirts. She just asked me what's up with me and these shirts!!! She said she won't wear the stick figure family one. But my son and daughter-in-law are up for wearing them though. It must be a teenage thing!! I also want to make the mickey mouse head swirl tye dye shirts and she said she will make one, but not with a mickey head (and she won't wear it on the same day we are wearing ours)!!!

Thanks again for your help!!

Carol

[heartbeeps]

...My 15 year old daughter is sitting here laughing at me. I have all these designs printed on regular paper and I'm trying to decide which ones I want to make into shirts. She just asked me what's up with me and these shirts!!! She said she won't wear the stick figure family one. But my son and daughter-in-law are up for wearing them though. It must be a teenage thing!! I also want to make the mickey mouse head swirl tye dye shirts and she said she will make one, but not with a mickey head (and she won't wear it on the same day we are wearing ours)!!!


I made 2 shirts and bought 4 shirts for my granddaughter (16); I never saw her in one of them the entire time! (10 year old grandson wore one on one day; 12 year old granddaughter didn't wear any that I saw either.) Heaven forbid! :rotfl: and so it goes...

and don't worry, it'll work out just fine. And, here's a couple of pix of dark transfers on white shirts to give you an idea...

note this one has a lot of white on it because I didn't "trim" the white off (however, it's a light pink shirt not a white one) -
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4120007.jpg

on this one, I "trimmed" the excess white off -
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4190050-1.jpg

this one has no excess white as I trimmed all the excess transfer paper off around the Mickey head (note I messed up the Mickey head - I think I was "twisting" the iron and that's why the white spots are on it but I'm not sure) -
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk100/usavvy2/Dis%20Tees/P4120006.jpg

[DisneyFun08]

Thanks for your help!

I have actually had really good success with transfers. This was the first time I used the HP brand and what I was trying to say is that it was their directions.

When I followed their directions, the colors started changing on the transfer which is when I stopped but it was already too late. When I did them for a fraction of the time, they looked incredible.

I just wanted to give everyone a heads up on here because I know that a lot of people bought those transfers when they were on special.

Which brand have you used previously, (not HP)? I can't find HP brand and someone said they didn't care for Avery. I can't remember the name of the transfers at Michael's, but it wasn't HP or Avery. TIA!

[carol-lamb]

Which brand have you used previously, (not HP)? I can't find HP brand and someone said they didn't care for Avery. I can't remember the name of the transfers at Michael's, but it wasn't HP or Avery. TIA!

DisneyFun08 - I just bought HP dark transfers at Target this past Friday. They were $9.99 for a package of six (I think there are six). I have read on the boards that some people prefer HP over Avery and vice versa, but I just went with HP. I saw the transfers at Michaels, but I think I read somewhere that they are not that good. I think HP and/or Avery are the preferred brands.

Carol

[DisneyFun08]

DisneyFun08 - I just bought HP dark transfers at Target this past Friday. They were $9.99 for a package of six (I think there are six). I have read on the boards that some people prefer HP over Avery and vice versa, but I just went with HP. I saw the transfers at Michaels, but I think I read somewhere that they are not that good. I think HP and/or Avery are the preferred brands.

Carol

Thanks for responding! I was at my Target yesterday and they didn't have them. I tried Wal Mart and K Mart, too. I have lots of time until our trip, I will just check back later.

[America]

I'm going to try to do a shirt. Will post later:thumbsup2

[heartbeeps]

Thanks for responding! I was at my Target yesterday and they didn't have them. I tried Wal Mart and K Mart, too. I have lots of time until our trip, I will just check back later.

if you're looking for HP transfers, you can see what they're offering online too. I bought mine when they were 2 for 1 and free shipping - directly from HP

[genhand]

Ok after many times reading this tread and looking at my plain t-shirt and those custom disigns a nice lady made for me, I finally had the courage to try it and... Hello, my name is geneviève and I am an iron-on addict!!! :lmao:

Really after making the one that I had to do, I still wanted to make some more!!! I use the avery transfers for light t-shirt and it work out great (I only had white tee and one light pink and since their for my kids, they don't mind that we can see the color of the shirt through the disign!) But it's way easier than I tough.

Thanx for that tread, really help me get over my stress of trying iron-on.

Updated: here are my shirt http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm224/genhand/t-shirt%20perso/t-shirtDisney002.jpg I did it I did it!!!! I got some more shirt to make new ones, it's so easy!!!

[heartbeeps]

Ok after many times reading this tread and looking at my plain t-shirt and those custom disigns a nice lady made for me, I finally had the courage to try it and... Hello, my name is geneviève and I am an iron-on addict!!! :lmao:

I made more than 60 and am now suffering TEE SHIRT MAKING WITHDRAWAL BIG TIME! :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:

(And, if you don't believe me, here's the posts of my tees (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1792419&page=4)showing the different designs - some were the same design for multiple people so I only posted about 50 of the finished product!) :surfweb:

[heartbeeps]

we really did wear a lot of these tees at Disney!

let's start with the iNCREDIBLES - at LeCellier no less - we were a sea of yellow. When the host asked if our party of 10 was there, I told him just look over there to the sea of yellow! :rotfl2: :

[heartbeeps]

anyone looking for these instructions lately?

bump

[goofytetreault]

Yes thank you they really helped

[weHEARTmickey]

anyone looking for these instructions lately?

bump

I certainly was! They were WAaay back on page 3!!! Any chance of a Sticky??? Thanks! :goodvibes Angela

[weHEARTmickey]

Okay, I JUST now finished 15 shirts (one was, unfortunately, a casualty) :headache: I'm uploading pics now & I'll post later. Anyway, I don't know if this has been mentioned.....

After you've ironed over the tissue paper, you need to LEAVE IT ALONE & let it cool for about 1-2 minutes. I'm sure everyone (but me) knows this already. I was just getting so impatient, that I kept trying to peel the tissue paper off the hot design, & the transfer would kind of "roll up" under itself. Then, it's impossible to flatten it out after it's done that.

Thanks for this thread, though. It's certainly helpful to those of us who've never made shirts before! :yay: Angela

[heartbeeps]

... After you've ironed over the tissue paper, you need to LEAVE IT ALONE & let it cool for about 1-2 minutes. I'm sure everyone (but me) knows this already. I was just getting so impatient, that I kept trying to peel the tissue paper off the hot design, & the transfer would kind of "roll up" under itself. Then, it's impossible to flatten it out after it's done that....: Angela


Thanks for mentioning this point, Angela. I updated step #17 to remind folks not to lift the tissue paper up before the transfer cools. Can't wait to see your pix!

[heartbeeps]

I know there's a lot of sticky's at the top of this board so I don't think we need to make this it's own sticky; however, I wonder if there's anyway to take the contents of post #1 in this thread and put it in one of the sticky's at the top of this board? Mods? anyone?

[lgiltmier]

Can I add a tip? Of course discovered by mistake...

I went to print my transfers (dark) today, and when I was changing my printer to "High" quality, I noticed that one of my paper options (instead of plain paper) was "T-shirt Transfers." Seems like the thing to do, right? Well guess what - my "smart" printer (it's a Canon) mirrored the transfer for me! AGH...now I have to go buy more...

[heartbeeps]

Can I add a tip? Of course discovered by mistake...

I went to print my transfers (dark) today, and when I was changing my printer to "High" quality, I noticed that one of my paper options (instead of plain paper) was "T-shirt Transfers." Seems like the thing to do, right? Well guess what - my "smart" printer (it's a Canon) mirrored the transfer for me! AGH...now I have to go buy more...

ugh. I had one jam in the printer (and thought, well, there goes $1.12 down the drain... not including the ink).

I believe the tip is already covered under the guise of #7 - print out on white paper first before printing on transfers; however, I added a few more words of encouragement.

[lgiltmier]

Well, I printed it one white paper on the plain paper setting! It just seemed SO logical to pick "TShirt Transfer" as the paper type when I went to do the real thing! =)

[heartbeeps]

Well, I printed it one white paper on the plain paper setting! It just seemed SO logical to pick "TShirt Transfer" as the paper type when I went to do the real thing! =)

ouch! I hate it when my logic takes over and it doesn't work out so I can relate.... sorry.

[kowalchicky]

WOW! Glad I found this thread....I thought all I had to do was find a design,print,and iron....I didnt know anything about the tissue paper,a waiting for everything to cool down etc...thank you!

Tissue paper as in the type you put in gift bag? or a special type of "tissue paper?"

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

WOW! Glad I found this thread....I thought all I had to do was find a design,print,and iron....I didnt know anything about the tissue paper,a waiting for everything to cool down etc...thank you!

Tissue paper as in the type you put in gift bag? or a special type of "tissue paper?"

No, not tissue paper. Either use the paper that comes with your transfers or if you need extra use "parchment paper". You can find that in the baking aisle of the grocery store or by the foil.

[kowalchicky]

Well I'm glad you cleared that one up...I would of set the darn shirt on fire...My sister in law and I are going to attempt this for our upcoming trip when she is up for a 4th of July BBQ...wish us luck

[heartbeeps]

No, not tissue paper. Either use the paper that comes with your transfers or if you need extra use "parchment paper". You can find that in the baking aisle of the grocery store or by the foil.

that's my fault; I used bad terminology in post #1 (I said tissue - shows you how much an uncrafty person like me knows! :lmao: ). Anyway, I updated the 1st post to change the reference from "tissue" paper, to "parchment" paper.

thanks for your help Amy (M_I_C_K_E_Y)

[MikiDisney]

I am sure this question has been asked a number of times but I am going to ask one more time. Why is it that you say that 100% cotton is the best to use. What would happen if you used 50-50? I haven't done anything yet and I am still going to get the 100% shirts but I am curious to what would happen. Anyone?

Where is the best place to buy the shirts without spending an arm and a leg for them. I would like to do 8 of them but don't want to spend 10 on each of them. Any ideas?

TIA:)

[EC0323]

I am sure this question has been asked a number of times but I am going to ask one more time. Why is it that you say that 100% cotton is the best to use. What would happen if you used 50-50? I haven't done anything yet and I am still going to get the 100% shirts but I am curious to what would happen. Anyone?

Where is the best place to buy the shirts without spending an arm and a leg for them. I would like to do 8 of them but don't want to spend 10 on each of them. Any ideas?

TIA:)

Not much help here. But I thought I would give it a shot. This week (unforunately ending today) Michael's has Jerzee's Tshirts on sale 2 for 5.00. I checked Walmart and they were $5.00 for Hane's. Not sure if Michael's is the cheapest but so far they are the cheapest. I have not tired online since I am all about instant gratification. I want to do now not next week. :lmao: Anyway someone might be able to tell you about tshirts online places.

I do not know about the 50% tshirts. I am going to try putting a small design on a wicking t shirt (just one!) to see if it works. I found this wicking shirt (only 6.99) that looks more like a regular tshirt and is not 100% poly.

Good Luck with your shirts!!!

[RweTHEREyet]

I, too, was wondering about purchasing shirts. I would like to buy somethig other than just plain t-shirts. I am getting to the point that I wish for something a little more dressy, such as a henley or just not as masculine looking as a plain t-shirt. Anyone have an on-line site where I can find something a little different?

[MikiDisney]

I, too, was wondering about purchasing shirts. I would like to buy somethig other than just plain t-shirts. I am getting to the point that I wish for something a little more dressy, such as a henley or just not as masculine looking as a plain t-shirt. Anyone have an on-line site where I can find something a little different?
I originally bought 12 shirts from Hobby Lobby and they were 50% off originally priced 2.99 child and 3.99 adult. When I saw they were 50-50 I took them back. I looked at the ones at Michaels and they are 50-50 also although they told me they were 100% cotton. They have none that are 100% cotton!:furious: So after about 2 hours of running from store to store :headache: I just bought the ones at Walmart. They are Hanes and I got them for 4.00 each. Needless to say were are each only getting one hand made shirt this year instead of 3.:( We leave in 17 days and I just don't have time with work and the children to go all over looking for these shirts. We are going back in December/January maybe I can make more then.

Good Luck with finding and making your shirts!:)
[FONT=Comic Sans MS][COLOR=#ff00ff]

[heartbeeps]

I am sure this question has been asked a number of times but I am going to ask one more time. Why is it that you say that 100% cotton is the best to use. What would happen if you used 50-50?

I HAVE used 50/50 (purchased Jerzee's brand from Michaels); they turned out fine. I added the 100% cotton because, when I started, that's what folks recommended be used. I could speculate that it might have to do with the fact that you need a hot iron and poly doesn't "take" as much of a hot iron as cotton would. Not sure, just speculation.


Where is the best place to buy the shirts without spending an arm and a leg for them

cheapest I've found:
jiffyshirts.com - don't like their return policy
shirtsupplier.com
Michael's 2 for $5 sale

[heartbeeps]

I, too, was wondering about purchasing shirts. I would like to buy somethig other than just plain t-shirts. I am getting to the point that I wish for something a little more dressy, such as a henley or just not as masculine looking as a plain t-shirt. Anyone have an on-line site where I can find something a little different?


try:
jiffyshirts.com
shirtsupplier.com (there's another thread I started with a discount code for this web site)
go to the Mens or Ladies section of your local Wal-Mart and select something from the varied choices

[turtlegirl1]

I just finished up my shirts today - 4 mickey tie dye (fingers crossed they turned out ok!), 3 spiral mickey spray paint, 8 iron on transfer - - spent a few days searching craft stores, using coupons, waiting on sales, then after purchasing all the adult & big kid shirts, but not any of the toddler (they don't carry anything smaller than a child's small) and I figured the 50/50 would be okay for the iron ons, but I was still going to have to go find 100% cotton for the tie dye, I went to shirtsupplier.com and ordered all of them. Much more selection (I got the adult men & toddler boy 100% cotton ringer shirts for the same price as the 50/50 plain shirts) and much better prices - PLUS, they were delivered the very next day with regular shipping, which I believe was free. Needless to say, I returned the shirts I got at Michael's. I was super pleased with shirtsupplier & will use them again.

[lumpy08]

When printing out the designs - for an adult shirt (let's use the stick figure design) do you print out as an 8x10? For a child version of the same how large/small do you make the image. I was thinking that for 2 kids I could put on 1 transfer where they would just need smaller version of the design.

[newtodis]

Thanks for this great thread! When I'm ready to start putting stuff together, I'll certainly have to come back and read through it to get all the tips down.

[SusieStone]

When printing out the designs - for an adult shirt (let's use the stick figure design) do you print out as an 8x10? For a child version of the same how large/small do you make the image. I was thinking that for 2 kids I could put on 1 transfer where they would just need smaller version of the design.

What I did was keep the same image but make sure you don't have on size to fit frame or it will cut some of it off.

I print the size that makes it 2 5X 7 on a page. When I do that for my 7 yo it looks a little small but is workable.

[Tnkrbelle565]

Subbing so I can find this when I need it...have been busy making my customs but now looking to try some iron ons.

[MikiDisney]

Do we HAVE to wash the shirts before we wear them the first time? The reason I am asking is that I have heard a number of people say that the color fades after you wash it the first time and I would rather them fade after we get back from WDW and not before.
Any information is welcome!
TIA

[marshallandcartersmo]

Do we HAVE to wash the shirts before we wear them the first time? The reason I am asking is that I have heard a number of people say that the color fades after you wash it the first time and I would rather them fade after we get back from WDW and not before.
Any information is welcome!
TIA


I never wash mine before wearing them. I do wash them before putting the transfer on, but not after.

[MikiDisney]

I never wash mine before wearing them. I do wash them before putting the transfer on, but not after.
Great!
I also washed my shirts before I put the transfer on them but I wasn't so sure about after. You gave me the answer I wanted to hear:thumbsup2
Thank you!

UGH! got home and DH washed the shirts, guess what? you guessed, FADED!

[heartbeeps]

Great!
I also washed my shirts before I put the transfer on them but I wasn't so sure about after. You gave me the answer I wanted to hear:thumbsup2
Thank you!

UGH! got home and DH washed the shirts, guess what? you guessed, FADED!


give him a big hug for doing the wash, at least or he might never do it again!

My experience has been that the dark transfers did NOT fade when washed after ironing on the transfer. I haven't done enough light transfers to say that applies to lights as well.

Keep in mind you don't "HAVE" to do any of the steps outlined in post #1. They're just the steps that worked for me.

[Grants Mom]

Great tips thank you very much ladies!!!!!!!!

[djmeredith]

Someone above was looking for different, or more feminine shirts. You can go to your local department store (like Macy's) and buy the store brand ladies shirts (at Macy's I bought the Style & Co. brand). They do cost more, but they were a lot more comfortable, better quality, and much more feminine. I also found feminine cut t-shirts at Target last year.

JiffyShirts.com does have several different styles of ladies shirts and they have super fast delivery (it's always been within 2 days). However, I just returned several Anvil brand ladies t's to them because I thought they were too thin. (Their return policy stinks, but I order my infant t's from them.)

Personally, I only use 100% cotton for my shirts because I think they are more comfortable and cooler; especially in the extreme summer heat!!

Also, if looking for smaller/toddler sizes, try the Garanimals brand plain t's from Wal-Mart. They are $3, 100% cotton, and come in many colors.

[family4christ]

Is there any way to get the stick family with the mouse ears and 2008? I would like a shirt like this for my family.

OR does any body do this for a fee?

Thanks!!

Going to WDW in 18 days!!!:yay:

[dogodisney]

Is there any way to get the stick family with the mouse ears and 2008? I would like a shirt like this for my family.

OR does any body do this for a fee?

Thanks!!

Going to WDW in 18 days!!!:yay:

This is the wrong thread......;)

You need to request it here: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1867034&page=5

[chaoscent]

We aren't allowed to make Disney tshirts for a fee, that would be an infringement on the Disney copyright. People DISign because the like to and make DISigns for other people to use. Please, thank you, not asking for too many and posting pictures of your finished t-shirts is all that is required. In some cases DISigners have stopped designing for a variety of reasons. This is the thread that tells people how to do the DISigns on tshirts. Once you find a design, just follow the directions on this thread and you will be fine. Good Luck, Penny :hippie:

[heartbeeps]

perhaps if we could get the attention of this board's moderator, we could add the info in post # 1 of this thread to a sticky?!

[Silvermist]

I am having a terrible time trying to get the backing off of the dark transfer. Does anybody have any help solutions? Everytime I get it started it tears or the the transfer part tears which the instructions say will not happen. I am using the HP brand

Thanks in advance.

[heartbeeps]

reposting as my connection must've hiccupped!

first, hopefully you're having this difficulty BEFORE using the iron!

Now, if you're using HP dark transfers, there will be a fold down the middle of the backing. Just bend the transfer paper ever so slightly to get an "edge" on the backing and pull gently from there. I've used over 36 dark HP transfers and only had one or two instances where a piece of the backing stuck to the transfer. A little fingernail magic resolved the problem. (You definitely don't want to iron with ANY backing still left on! :scared1: )

If that doesn't work, perhaps the paper's defective? (Call HP and explain the problem and see what solutions they offer.)

[Silvermist]

Okay I am blonde but not dumb LOL. Yes I tried to peel it before I ironed. LOL

But I did make a mistake it is not HP paper it is Avery. Sorry

Still laughing about ironing before peeling. (I only did that once before my husband pointed out in the directions I was suppose to peel it first). So I had a very blonde moment. I am still having problems peeling the back though.

[thebeachdreamer]

I used Avery last year and I had the same problem (not to mention I have no useable fingernails:goodvibes )! I do not like the Avery ones and will be ordering mine this year from one of the sites previously mentioned.

What I did was take a tiny piece of the corner at the bottom of the transfer (maybe 1/4 of an inch) and bend it once forward and once back and that would make the backing kind of lift up. I was always afraid the "bend/crease" in the transfer would show once I ironed it (that's why I did it on the bottom as often as possible), but it never did show up.


Sonya

[heartbeeps]

Okay I am blonde but not dumb LOL. Yes I tried to peel it before I ironed. LOL

But I did make a mistake it is not HP paper it is Avery. Sorry

Still laughing about ironing before peeling. (I only did that once before my husband pointed out in the directions I was suppose to peel it first). So I had a very blonde moment. I am still having problems peeling the back though.

I HATE AVERY TRANSFERS FOR THAT REASON! They're so much more difficult to peel - for me at least. So, for me, that explains it. Thanks for the rest of the story!!

However, I have to tell you that there are folks on this board who like Avery!

Re the ironing AFTER peeling, I have to tell you after doing so many dark transfers that when I switched to light, I was trying to pull the backing off BEFORE I ironed when I realized I needed TO iron the backing on the light transfer! (That was my blonde moment!)

[cmul04]

that's my fault; I used bad terminology in post #1 (I said tissue - shows you how much an uncrafty person like me knows! :lmao: ). Anyway, I updated the 1st post to change the reference from "tissue" paper, to "parchment" paper.

thanks for your help Amy (M_I_C_K_E_Y)

I'm go glad to read this, I would have been looking all over the place for tissue paper and who knows how that irons!! I'm thinking not so good!

Question: there's been a lot of discussion about 100% cotton vs. 50/50. Has anyone done this on anything with spandex in it? My favorite, most feminine t-shirts have like 5% spandex. Do you think it would work on that?

What a great thread for us beginners! THanks to everyone who has contributed!

[heartbeeps]

...Question: there's been a lot of discussion about 100% cotton vs. 50/50. Has anyone done this on anything with spandex in it? My favorite, most feminine t-shirts have like 5% spandex. Do you think it would work on that?

I'd recommend that you post this ? in a separate thread as there may be experienced tee shirt crafters who no longer read this thread (since they've already tried the steps involved). I think the # of people who have used spandex may be limited so you'll want to reach the largest number of folks who would possibly have used spandex - that wouldn't necessarily be by posting within this long "how to" thread.

Also, I've seen postings over the past couple of months about using ribbed tees for designs which are stretchy material so that might be a consideration as well. The biggest problem I'd worry about is how hot of an iron can a shirt with spandex withstand????

good luck and let us know what you decide!

[heartbeeps]

bumping this back to the top for the newcomers to read.

[everydaymathchick]

I'm go glad to read this, I would have been looking all over the place for tissue paper and who knows how that irons!! I'm thinking not so good!

Question: there's been a lot of discussion about 100% cotton vs. 50/50. Has anyone done this on anything with spandex in it? My favorite, most feminine t-shirts have like 5% spandex. Do you think it would work on that?

What a great thread for us beginners! THanks to everyone who has contributed!


I put a dark transfer on a 60/40 cotton polyester blend the other day -- it has a LOT of stretch to it, so I used a stretchable transfer. It worked quite well. I'd be concerned about the heat it could withstand as well. Maybe try getting a cheaper on first and testing a small design on it?

[heartbeeps]

looks like there's some new posters around - time to bring this to the "head of the class."

[cmul04]

Thank you for bringing this up! I was looking all afternoon and could not find it! I will post my shirts when I get them made, hopefully tomorrow morning.

Wish me luck!

[Disneymommy2006]

bumping...this is a great place for lots of questions to be answered!!!

[heartbeeps]

bumping to the top

[heartbeeps]

bumping it back to the top

[chaoscent]

Bump
Penny:hippie:

[heartbeeps]

Bump
Penny:hippie:

me too! After reading today's posts, it's obvious this needs to be on page 1.

[mickeyvixie]

Thank you for all the information in this thread:goodvibes

[heartbeeps]

I must've been asleep at the switch; this was buried on page 7! bumping it back to the head of the class!

[stormer]

Thank you to those of you who suggested shirtsupplier.com. I have tried everywhere to get boys tank tops and had no luck. I was able to order them on shirtsupplier! Thanks! :cool1:

[Wilsonfamily4]

great thread. I hate wasting but I know when I first start the actual printing I will have to try things out to see what I like and how things work. :) This thread is a great walk through!

I am so ready!!!

[Tnkrbelle565]

Just wanted to show everyone the shirts I did with the walk through...Thank you so much for all the help.

Front and Back of our matching shirts

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg269/ksc565/frontbacksafarishirt.jpg


Close up of front
http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg269/ksc565/frontsafari.jpg

Close up of back
http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg269/ksc565/backsafari.jpg

Matching Anniversary Shirts for DH and I
http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg269/ksc565/annivshirt.jpg

[heartbeeps]

bump

[everydaymathchick]

Thanks for pulling this back up. I was just thinking I should find it and bump it! This thread helped me soooo much when I was making my first shirts! :cool1:

[island cricket]

in one of the posts i had ran across a picture of a can that was a paint spray to keep the white color on the transfers as white doesn't print, does anyone know where that post is or what it was? :confused:

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

in one of the posts i had ran across a picture of a can that was a paint spray to keep the white color on the transfers as white doesn't print, does anyone know where that post is or what it was? :confused:

I think what you are thinking of was that someone had posted spray you could spray on the back of "window clings" so that the clear would be white and show up better on the window. if you do a search for window clings, you will probabaly be able to find the thread. i hope this helps.

As far as shirts go, if you want the white in your design to stay white on the shirt - simply buy DARK transfers.

[island cricket]

Thank you Amy! appreciate the response!

[island cricket]

yep...you were right Amy... it's for window clings, thanks for the help, I would've tried to spray a shirt...duh!:laughing:

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

Thank you Amy! appreciate the response!

yep...you were right Amy... it's for window clings, thanks for the help, I would've tried to spray a shirt...duh!:laughing:

Glad I could help and that I caught you BEFORE you tried that.

[twins4mimi]

thanks, I needed this info.

[everydaymathchick]

:flower3: bump :flower3:
How did this get to page 4?? :laughing:

[island cricket]

check out the thread "castle ? for rumbley" i posted some pics of transfer mess ups in that one

[heartbeeps]

go to the head of the class (again)

[momof1+1+2]

I have a question. I just washed some of my shirts that I did and the transfer now has a few wrickles or bubbles in them. They weren't there before I washed them. I did the prewash, I used dark transfers and I let them sit several days before washing, I washed them inside out and dried them on low heat. Any feedback on what/why they bubbled? Thanks!

[heartbeeps]

I have a question. I just washed some of my shirts that I did and the transfer now has a few wrickles or bubbles in them. They weren't there before I washed them. I did the prewash, I used dark transfers and I let them sit several days before washing, I washed them inside out and dried them on low heat. Any feedback on what/why they bubbled? Thanks!

my guess would be the iron wasn't evenly distributed throughout the entire design. anyone else wanna weigh in?

[chaoscent]

Bumbing for newbies.:goodvibes

[labdogs42]

I didn't read the whole thread (sorry!) What is the vinegar wash for?

[jmkdparks]

Thank you for all the info. I'm starting to make our t-shirts for our cruise. :)

[chaoscent]

Because someone asked a question about how to do t-shirts. :goodvibes
Penny

[Moeluv4u7]

This thread is awesome! First, I have in the very long ago past made many many T-shirts in soooo many different ways- Over the years I know craft centers come out with different products, brands change, and things get "newer"- This is cool because I don't remember ever doing a vinegar wash, also- I always used light transfer because dark transfer was fairly new and not quite as easy to use- I plan on browsing the Dis-igners here & making shirts forour very first trip next year- This will make things so much nicer to know what has been updated over the years- Also, I don't believe HP had transfer paper back then either- LOL & I am NOT that old!

[everydaymathchick]

:cheer2: :dance3: :cheer2: :dance3: :cheer2: :dance3: :cheer2: :dance3:

[heartbeeps]

Page 3?! what is this doing on page 3?! Go to the head of the class..... ooops I mean thread. :thumbsup2

[chaoscent]

The newbies need ya:goodvibes

[heartbeeps]

back tot he head of the class

[heartbeeps]

page 4 will never do - back to the top!

[Moeluv4u7]

Would be nice if this were a sticky! But, until then, A Bump for everyone who needs tips...

[Moeluv4u7]

Bumping again for debbs

[dato63]

Since I never used a transfer before, I've been reading the threads on this board for the past month to figure out how to make custom t shirts for my family's upcoming trip to Disney... using DARK TRANSFERS ONLY!

Warning: I am a beginner; I have NEVER done this before!.

I found this video on the web showing a visual of how to iron on transfers - click here! (http://www.videojug.com/film/how-to-make-and-use-iron-on-transfers)

06/01/08 - added info to step 17

Here's what I've learned (along with my specific decisions at each step):

1) Print out these guidelines while deciding on a theme to use
(a) DH's b'day + Family + the Incredibles and
(b) DAK & first names on Mickey heads

2) Decide on quantity
- I need 20 of various sizes (ok so now I'm at 48 and counting!)

3) Decide on a specific design
(a) Mr. Incredible Birthday/Family for adults; Dash Incredible Birthday/Family for kids;
(b) safari Mickey heads/DAK shirts
(c) "First Time" shirts
(d) Birthday shirts
(e) P&PP shirts
(f) Tote bag

4) Determine if selected design needs to be customized (yep)

5) Figure out the timeline for having shirts ready when you need them
- I started with my departure date of 4/30 and worked backwards from there, allowing time for designing, shipping, prep, etc. I plan on bringing all 21 shirts to Disney and distributing them there b'c of lack of time to mail them to everyone beforehand.

6) Get design customized
- I couldn't do step #1 without the wonderful Dis-igners here on this board being so generous with their time and creativity!
- proof read EVERY version of EVERY design you print so you are sure the spelling in each transfer is correct before you print! (I wasted about 9 transfers by not catching a typo before wasting ink and transfers; fortunately, I didn't waste the shirts, too!)
- write down the name of the designer/their "handle" whose design you use so you can appropriately credit them for their work when you post your finished product!

7) print the designs on white paper and "size them up" on the t-shirt to ensure they look good
- gosh I hope the t-shirt colors I picked work!
- some say you can print them in black and white but I really needed to see them in color! and it helps to take the paper print outs to a local store to look for shirt colors if you haven't already done that yet
- printing them on white paper first also confirms what you will get when you print on transfer paper. (after all, you don't want to waste expensive transfer paper so ensure you've got it all right - including the spelling, whether you need to reverse the image, etc.)

8) Decide on shirt - store, style, color and order
- bought from shirtsupplier.com (there's a public frequent buyer discount code - it's FBP8) and from jiffyshirts.com as well as from Michael's, Dollar Tree, and Wal-mart.
- 100% cotton T shirt
- yellow haze color of various sizes (21 ordered for the Incredibles design)
- be sure to understand the company's return policy, restocking fees, suggested quantity to buy to allow for defects in original order, etc.

9) Make sure timeline is still valid
- I originally forgot to add to my timeline enough time required to select the t shirt colors (not being artistic at all, I agonized over the right color to coordinate with each design)

10) buy transfers
- I used HP.com - buy 1 get 1 free offer (Like being a Pepsi gal, I'm gonna be on the dark side of transfers)
- If putting design on a white shirt - you can use either light or dark transfers; On any other color shirt - use dark transfers or else ALL white areas of the design will be the shirt color.
- Dark transfers tend to have more vibrant colors and are more of a matte finish and light transfers are more shiny.
- the MINUTE that the printer flashes the "ink low" message, CHANGE THE INK CARTRIDGE. Do not try to get one more transfer out of that ink cartridge. (I did that and wasted a transfer because the transfer had vertical stripes through it! )

11) wash, dry and iron the shirts
- NO fabric softener, no dryer sheets, no spray starch!

12) if happy with the positioning of the print outs on paper, then print the design on the transfer paper itself
- HP dark transfer paper states "Set Print quality to BEST" [for HP Iron-On Transfer]
- Check printing directions for the type of transfer you are using. Normally, dark transfers print normally and White transfers should be reversed before printing.

13) let the design "set up" on the paper for a day
- not sure this is absolute but won't hurt if you've got the time built into your timeline

14) 'trim' around the design otherwise the un-used or un-printed white backgrounds will show on the shirt

15) take the transfer, parchment paper, shirt, and iron to a flat, hard surface
- coffee table ideal b'c it's lower and you can hover over the iron
- dining room table or floor can be used as long as you protect it
- note - I used the coffee table protected with a pillowcase folded double - TOOK THE FINISH RIGHT OFF THE SURFACE!

16) while heating up the iron (follow the directions on the transfer package), [for dark transfers] remove the transfer from the backing before you iron it on the shirt then put parchment paper on top of the transfer before you iron it
- These directions are for Dark Transfer shirts as the ironing is a little different for white transfers (not much, just a little (i.e., you DON't take the back off for white transfers)
- make sure all of the paper is off the back including at the point where the two sides of the paper meet; sometimes a little bit is left that needs to be taken off before ironing
- I left my iron heat up for at least 8 minutes before starting

17) iron the transfer onto the shirt using parchment paper (provided by the transfer mfr.) between the transfer and the iron
- FOLLOW THE MFR. DIRECTIONS to the letter!
- while prepping the shirt (i.e., making sure the tee is flat and not wrinkled, be sure to keep the transfer AWAY from the hot iron!)
- make sure the transfers is flat, centered, and straight and there are no corners bent under
- make sure you iron long enough so the transfer not only comes off the transfer but ADHERES to the shirt
- make sure you let the transfer "cool down" before trying to lift the parchment paper off the transfer (the tissue paper should lift right off with NO problem; if the tissue paper feels like it's "sticking" to the transfer that's a sure indication that you haven't let the transfer cool enough)

18) wash shirt in a vinegar wash
- 1 cup vinegar in the washer only, nothing else, just the shirt(s) and vinegar, no detergent no fabric softener and put it through it's regular wash cycle
- if you're concerned about a vinegar smell, you can use a second rinse cycle
- I turned my tees inside out before washing

19) Dry the shirt on a low heat setting *
- Not no heat, it needs SOME heat!
- If only drying a couple of shirts, put a towel or two in the dryer to keep the shirt from bunching up

20) Post pix back to the boards to thank the Dis-igners for sharing their talents and surprise the family
- if taking a pix indoors, the pix looks better if you can turn off the flash and set the camera to "macro" then get close enough to read the design but also see the "look" of the tee (i.e., the collar, sleeves, etc.)

Sit back, and enjoy! :yay:

A word of advice... don't underestimate the amount of time you need to make these shirts; there's a lot of steps involved. Add a couple extra days to your timeline to allow for snafus!

* some folks say they Scotchgard the shirts (inside & outside) before wearing them to help protect them from bleeding. Personally, I haven't done this and two of my shirts bled when the wearer used Purell to disinfect their hands! LOL

I hope this helps everyone who isn't familiar with the steps required.


I have a question. Step #12 says that dark transfers don't have to be reversed before printing. I don't follow this (sorry - have not done this before or yet). I thought all of the designs you get here would have to be printed in reverse so the wording/names are not backwards when you iron them on? Am I misreading this?

Thank you for any input so I don't totally screw up our vacation shirts. :)

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

I have a question. Step #12 says that dark transfers don't have to be reversed before printing. I don't follow this (sorry - have not done this before or yet). I thought all of the designs you get here would have to be printed in reverse so the wording/names are not backwards when you iron them on? Am I misreading this?

Thank you for any input so I don't totally screw up our vacation shirts. :)

First of all read the directions that come in your iron on package carefully because this is not a hard fast rule - but in most cases - dark transfers do not need the design to be reversed/flipped.

The reason is because on the white transfers you turn the design so that the design faces the shirt. For the dark transfers, you lay the design flat on the shirt with the design facing up/towards you.

[dato63]

First of all read the directions that come in your iron on package carefully because this is not a hard fast rule - but in most cases - dark transfers do not need the design to be reversed/flipped.

The reason is because on the white transfers you turn the design so that the design faces the shirt. For the dark transfers, you lay the design flat on the shirt with the design facing up/towards you.

OOOOKay - so some of the paper transfers differently. I didn't know that. I'll be sure to read the directions on what I buy. Thank you so much for responding - it helps a LOT!!

[heartbeeps]

First of all read the directions that come in your iron on package carefully because this is not a hard fast rule - but in most cases - dark transfers do not need the design to be reversed/flipped.

The reason is because on the white transfers you turn the design so that the design faces the shirt. For the dark transfers, you lay the design flat on the shirt with the design facing up/towards you.

Thanks for pointing out this oversight, Amy. I added a line in the first post -
ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS IN THE PACKAGE OF TRANSFER PAPERS; the steps that follow are just a guideline!

The dark transfers I used (HP brand) did NOT need to be flipped so I assumed that was true of every dark transfer.

Sorry for any confusion my vagueness may have caused dato63.

[chaoscent]

Bump:cool1:

[calzo]

I'm about to start the vinegar wash and I couldn't find the directions! :scared1: BUMP!

Wish me luck...

[LD NURSE]

:banana: I did it!!! I did it!!! Thanks for all the tips. This so needs to be a sticky--I kept losing it!!

Special Thanks to Dom 13 for the awsome Star Wars design!!!

http://i472.photobucket.com/albums/rr88/karriern/tshirts007.jpg

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

The question that comes up the most often on the boards (it seems) is what transfers are the best. This is a question that has many answers depending on who you ask.

I have been asked to post in this thread about my dark transfers. If you are looking for the best dark transfers on the market - I have found them! After years of trying numerous brands, I have finally found one that I love and would like to share with everyone.

Please see this thread for updates and feedback about these dark transfers:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1928845

If you are looking for the best light transfers - I am sorry but I do not have an opinion on this. I only use the dark transfers because of personal preference.

[snyderla]

I've made 24 of the 35 shirts I have to do for our 10/23 trip. (We have 18 of us going.) Mistakes I've made so far: my first TWO transfer prints I forgot to reverse the image for the light transfers. I've printed out an image on transfer paper BEFORE I saw it on regular paper and the pixels were way too few to use the transfer, I tried to iron a light transfer on a red shirt-everything was red, I scorched the first 2 shirts, and lastly I ALMOST ironed the dark transfers with image reversed! Thank you for saving me from another mistake! :)

[aribelle]

Wow...thanks for all this GREAT information!

[chaoscent]

bump

[kkjd]

Just what I need!
Thanks.

[RustManFan]

I can't find this covered here so will ask.....I want most of the background of my image to be black and will use a black t-shirt. I hate to print with all that black. Also hate the thought of cutting around entire image.

Can I make the background transparent and it will show as black because of t-shirt color?

Or navy if I used a navy t-shirt, etc.

I use Photoshop Elements BTW.

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

I can't find this covered here so will ask.....I want most of the background of my image to be black and will use a black t-shirt. I hate to print with all that black. Also hate the thought of cutting around entire image.

Can I make the background transparent and it will show as black because of t-shirt color?

Or navy if I used a navy t-shirt, etc.

I use Photoshop Elements BTW.

It does not matter if you make the background transparent or not on the computer screen.

The way it works is that for light transfers, any part of the transfer that is not a color (ie - white) will be clear (ie - the shirt color)

Dark transfers are white - which means that anything that is not a color will be white.

You will need to either print the background black, trim the design or if there is no other white in the design, you could use a light transfer.

I hope this helps!

[DisneyBarlans]

I would love to make t-shirts for our upcoming trip, but we had a bad experience with them last year. I'm not sure if it was the transfers we used or the way we did them, but the ink started running as soon as we got the transfers wet (splash mountain), and when we got home and washed them (inside out, in cold water on delicate cycle) they all cracked and started peeling off. I used the dark transfers from Michael's-not sure what brand. I followed the directions on the transfers-prewashing the shirts with no detergent or fabric softener, ironed them on my kitchen table, everything it said to do. They looked really cute, but the second they got wet they fell apart. Does anyone have any tips that might help me this time? I have never heard of the prewash in vinegar-does this seem to help with the bleeding? I'll probably order some of your transfers AmyMickey. I would greatly appreciate any input! TIA! Anne

[MDAL12]

Last night I tried ironing on a transfer to my daughter's cotton t-shirt. I applied the iron in each section for 20 seconds as the directions said. When I tried to remove the parchment paper the transfer was still attached to the paper and never transferred to the t-shirt. I followed the directions and did it on a flat surface placing the glossy side down with the printed decal facing up and the parchment paper on top of that. Does anyone have any tips on how I can get this to transfer to the t-shirt? I used Wilton brand transfers.

[SeiterClan]

I've never used Wilton tranfers, only HP, but the only time I had a similar problem with dark transfers is when I forgot to peel the backing off the transfer. The only other thing I can think of is that you are not ironing the trabfer long enough to have it adhere to the shirt. Hope this helps a little!:goodvibes

[MDAL12]

I did not peel the backing before I ironed it. Is this the problem?

[SeiterClan]

Again, I have never used Wilton tranfers before so you shouldread the directions that come with your transfers carefully! The tranfers your're using are they for dark or light colored shirts because that makes a difference? IF they are DARK tranfers, with HP you must first peel the backing off the transfer & then place your transfer on your colored shirt with the design up(the way you want it to look on your shirt), then place parchment paper on top & iron away as directed. Let me know if this helps. :)

[jtanddolly]

Do not worry about the vinegar smell or doing a second wash. I absolutely can't stand the smell of vinegar, but once vinegar dries...it looses its smell.

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

I would love to make t-shirts for our upcoming trip, but we had a bad experience with them last year. I'm not sure if it was the transfers we used or the way we did them, but the ink started running as soon as we got the transfers wet (splash mountain), and when we got home and washed them (inside out, in cold water on delicate cycle) they all cracked and started peeling off. I used the dark transfers from Michael's-not sure what brand. I followed the directions on the transfers-prewashing the shirts with no detergent or fabric softener, ironed them on my kitchen table, everything it said to do. They looked really cute, but the second they got wet they fell apart. Does anyone have any tips that might help me this time? I have never heard of the prewash in vinegar-does this seem to help with the bleeding? I'll probably order some of your transfers AmyMickey. I would greatly appreciate any input! TIA! Anne

I have personally never had the ink running issue before but I have used transfers that have fallen apart in the first wash. It is extremely frustrating after you have done so much work.

In m opinion, it has more to do with the quality of the transfers. Especially when you have followed the directions to a T.

I have never done the vinegar wash and when I wash my shirts, I wash and dry them in my regular laundry. No special attention! Although, most of the time, I try to remember to turn them inside out. But I am not one of those "wash in delicate" and "hang to dry" people. If it can't be done normally, it doesn't get done.

And in saying all that, the transfers I have are GREAT. No issues in the laundry with cracking or peeling and I have washed my test shirts about 10 times now. That is not to say that eventually they won't crack but I have yet to see it happen.

[Brady's Mom]

Last night I tried ironing on a transfer to my daughter's cotton t-shirt. I applied the iron in each section for 20 seconds as the directions said. When I tried to remove the parchment paper the transfer was still attached to the paper and never transferred to the t-shirt. I followed the directions and did it on a flat surface placing the glossy side down with the printed decal facing up and the parchment paper on top of that. Does anyone have any tips on how I can get this to transfer to the t-shirt? I used Wilton brand transfers.


I just used some Wilton transfers the other night for some Halloween shirts. I used the dark transfer paper (it's actually white). Did you peel off the paper on the back that has the blue line on it? I was really nervous about ripping the part that you peel off, but it seemed pretty strong. I didn't have any trouble with my transfers sticking to the shirt.

You might have to print another transfer if you forgot to peel off the backing, I don't know if you will be able to separate them after you iron it.

[chaoscent]

bump, :goodvibes

[Brady's Mom]

I would love to make t-shirts for our upcoming trip, but we had a bad experience with them last year. I'm not sure if it was the transfers we used or the way we did them, but the ink started running as soon as we got the transfers wet (splash mountain), and when we got home and washed them (inside out, in cold water on delicate cycle) they all cracked and started peeling off. I used the dark transfers from Michael's-not sure what brand. I followed the directions on the transfers-prewashing the shirts with no detergent or fabric softener, ironed them on my kitchen table, everything it said to do. They looked really cute, but the second they got wet they fell apart. Does anyone have any tips that might help me this time? I have never heard of the prewash in vinegar-does this seem to help with the bleeding? I'll probably order some of your transfers AmyMickey. I would greatly appreciate any input! TIA! Anne

I did some Halloween shirts the other day and didn't rinse them in vinegar before they were worn. The black shirt did just fine, no running or anything (although it didn't get wet) and the ink on the yellow shirt bled. I tried them in a vinegar rinse after Halloween (one at a time because of the colors) and the transfers cracked and the colors are not as vivid as they were before.

I also used the transfers from Michael's (Wilton, I think). I used a 40% off coupon, otherwise all the dark transfers I have found are about the same price - about $10 for 5.

Did rinsing the shirts separately make a difference? Should I do them with more shirts? I think I need major help here! :scared1:

Thanks
Shannon

[DisneyBarlans]

I did some Halloween shirts the other day and didn't rinse them in vinegar before they were worn. The black shirt did just fine, no running or anything (although it didn't get wet) and the ink on the yellow shirt bled. I tried them in a vinegar rinse after Halloween (one at a time because of the colors) and the transfers cracked and the colors are not as vivid as they were before.

I also used the transfers from Michael's (Wilton, I think). I used a 40% off coupon, otherwise all the dark transfers I have found are about the same price - about $10 for 5.

Did rinsing the shirts separately make a difference? Should I do them with more shirts? I think I need major help here! :scared1:

Thanks
Shannon

I used the Wilton brand when I made my shirts that turned out so bad. I have ordered some transfers from Amymickey-they are supposed to be really good, so I'll let you know after I try them.

[heartbeeps]

I did some Halloween shirts the other day and didn't rinse them in vinegar before they were worn. The black shirt did just fine, no running or anything (although it didn't get wet) and the ink on the yellow shirt bled. I tried them in a vinegar rinse after Halloween (one at a time because of the colors) and the transfers cracked and the colors are not as vivid as they were before. I also used the transfers from Michael's (Wilton, I think). ... Did rinsing the shirts separately make a difference? Should I do them with more shirts? I think I need major help here! :scared1:


I suspect that the running came b'c you ironed them on either too long or the iron was too hot - not b'c of skipping the vinegar step as others don't use the vinegar step and still have success.

Re using the Wilton brand, I've read on this board that they're not the best. Praises come from Amy's transfers as well as HP and Avery mostly on this board from what I've read.

I wonder if you'd have the same results w/the same process on a different brand! If so, then perhaps the iron is too hot or too long.

[chaoscent]

:goodvibes Someone was looking for this. :goodvibes

[kkjd]

Hi,

I'm using PrintWorks Premium T-shirt Transfers paper and I can't get my transfer to stick to my shirt no matter how long I press the iron down.

Has any one been used this type of transfer paper which has the same problem as mine?

Thanks

[tamih]

I have not used this brand but were you sure to peel the back off? I have tried Amymickey's transfers and they are great.

[kkjd]

Yes, I'm sure that I peeled the back off. The only thing that I could think of was my iron was not hot enough. However the over lay paper that I put on top of the transfer even turned brown.
:confused:

I have not used this brand but were you sure to peel the back off? I have tried Amymickey's transfers and they are great.

[AnjieNet]

Received my transfers yesterday (thanks for the quick shipping Amy aka M_I_C_K_E_Y) and I'm ready to start trying some transfers. Crossing my fingers for success!! Thought I'd bump this up for anyone else interested. :banana:

[chaoscent]

Great Information. :)

[dr&momto2boys]

Bump :goodvibes

[ilovefh]

:cheer2: yay for this thread!

[cole4/25]

So this is a strange question but is there any way to get an iron on OFF? Before I discovered this wonderful site I had bought some iron ons from an ebay store. They're fine but that's it - fine. Where the ones here are GREAT!! And I want more, but can't really justify doing more shirts (already did one for each day) so I was wondering if there is anyway to get the other trasfers off so I can do ones from here? They were done on white t shirts & light grey hoodies & they were light colored shirt transfers.
And I did not wash the shirts first - didn't know i was supposed to at the time - so will that make a difference?
Let me know if any of you have any suggestions or have actually done somehting like this!! Thanks!!

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

So this is a strange question but is there any way to get an iron on OFF? Before I discovered this wonderful site I had bought some iron ons from an ebay store. They're fine but that's it - fine. Where the ones here are GREAT!! And I want more, but can't really justify doing more shirts (already did one for each day) so I was wondering if there is anyway to get the other trasfers off so I can do ones from here? They were done on white t shirts & light grey hoodies & they were light colored shirt transfers.
And I did not wash the shirts first - didn't know i was supposed to at the time - so will that make a difference?
Let me know if any of you have any suggestions or have actually done somehting like this!! Thanks!!

The reason it is important to wash the shirts first is to remove all the sizing from the shirt so that the transfer will adhere correctly.

Sadly, I do not believe that there is a way to remove a transfer in order to reuse the shirt. I have heard others say that they have ironed a transfer over a transfer but I have not personally done this. Before doing this though - consider that having two transfers on top of eachother and what that will do to the breathability of the tshirt.

I hope somehow this helps. I wish I could give you better news.

[heartbeeps]

So this is a strange question but is there any way to get an iron on OFF? Before I discovered this wonderful site I had bought some iron ons from an ebay store. They're fine but that's it - fine. Where the ones here are GREAT!! And I want more, but can't really justify doing more shirts (already did one for each day) so I was wondering if there is anyway to get the other trasfers off so I can do ones from here? They were done on white t shirts & light grey hoodies & they were light colored shirt transfers.
And I did not wash the shirts first - didn't know i was supposed to at the time - so will that make a difference?
Let me know if any of you have any suggestions or have actually done somehting like this!! Thanks!!


you could always just put a 2nd transfer on... THE BACK of the shirt! Then they'd see you coming and going! :rotfl:

[chaoscent]

Bump

[1drifter]

http://i371.photobucket.com/albums/oo151/2drifters/Disneyshirts.jpg

Thanks so much for this thread I just finished my shirts and it was a great help. Also a special thanks to the designers for their wonderful designs--donatalie (Natalie), Mickey (Amy), Kellybell (Kelly), Dom13, and whoever posted Buzz (sorry I forgot). :flower3:

[heartbeeps]

Yes, I'm sure that I peeled the back off. The only thing that I could think of was my iron was not hot enough. However the over lay paper that I put on top of the transfer even turned brown.
:confused:

did ya wash the shirt first to get the sizing off?

[heartbeeps]

http://i371.photobucket.com/albums/oo151/2drifters/Disneyshirts.jpg

Thanks so much for this thread I just finished my shirts and it was a great help. Also a special thanks to the designers for their wonderful designs--donatalie (Natalie), Mickey (Amy), Kellybell (Kelly), Dom13, and whoever posted Buzz (sorry I forgot). :flower3:

they look great! glad you were able to use this thread! enjoy the shirts!

[vetbeth]

Quick question. I had prewashed a shirt, but wasn't thinking and threw a dryer sheet in. Do I need to rewash it before I do the transfer?

Beth

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

Quick question. I had prewashed a shirt, but wasn't thinking and threw a dryer sheet in. Do I need to rewash it before I do the transfer?

Beth

I would. Using a dryer sheet will put a "film" (for lack of a better word) on your shirts and may/will not let the iron on stick as well as it should.

[TinkerBrie]

Hello! Quick question: I printed up some designs on the LIGHT transfers and I will be putting them on white shirts. Do I still need to cut out the design or can I just leave it on the whole sheet and Iron it on that way? Thanks

[M_I_C_K_E_Y]

Hello! Quick question: I printed up some designs on the LIGHT transfers and I will be putting them on white shirts. Do I still need to cut out the design or can I just leave it on the whole sheet and Iron it on that way? Thanks

You can leave it the whole sheet if you wish but remember that often it can be 'hot' underneath the transfer, so I would cut off the bulk of the border if/when possible.

[Disuser]

Hello! Quick question: I printed up some designs on the LIGHT transfers and I will be putting them on white shirts. Do I still need to cut out the design or can I just leave it on the whole sheet and Iron it on that way? Thanks

I am real picky about the way the shirts look. I have seen pictures on this thread where they have left on a lot of unprinted paper and I did not care for the look. I would cut it close or cut it completely off where you can. Also be careful cutting out your design. I notice a few have rather bad cutting jobs.:wave2:

[2princess 2pirates]

Hi,

I was wondering if the vinegar wash was also needed to prewash shirts or pillowcases that we would have signed by characters? On our last cruise we had a shirt signed and when we got home and washed it, some of the signatures bled.

Any suggestions for our future trips?

Thank You!

[rockiesfan]

Just want to say this is a great thread with great tips for newbies! :thumbsup2 I am just in the beginning stage - getting ideas and preparing to ask for personalization. I will definitely return to this thread when it comes time to print the transfers and iron the shirts!

[DisneyBabies]

I have a question that I haven't seen answered. Can I put a dryer sheet in when I am drying after the vinegar wash? Hubby is sensitive to how things feel on his skin and has a hard time wearing things that haven't been softened.

Thanks for the help. :)