How to Iron on Smart Vinyl?
To iron on Smart Vinyl, you typically need to apply heat and pressure to transfer the design onto your material. A key step specifically recommended for Smart Vinyl is performing a cold peel after pressing.
Applying Smart Vinyl (an iron-on vinyl or heat transfer vinyl) requires careful handling to ensure a successful transfer that lasts. While specific heat settings and times can vary depending on your heat source (like a heat press or iron) and the base material, the general process is as follows:
- Prepare Your Material: Ensure the fabric or base material is clean, dry, and wrinkle-free. Preheat the area where you will apply the design for a few seconds (often 5-15 seconds) to remove moisture and flatten the surface.
- Position the Design: Place your Smart Vinyl design onto the prepared material with the shiny carrier sheet facing up.
- Apply Heat and Pressure: Use your heat source (heat press or iron) to apply consistent heat and firm pressure over the entire design. Follow the recommended temperature and time settings for Smart Vinyl and your specific base material. Ensure all areas of the design receive adequate heat and pressure.
- Let It Cool (Cold Peel): This is a critical step for Smart Vinyl. As mentioned in the reference from the video (around the 6:49 mark), once you have pressed the vinyl, you must "let the vinyl cool. This is referred to as a cold peel... the smart vinyl recommends a cold peel." Do not attempt to remove the carrier sheet while it is still hot. Wait until the design is completely cool to the touch.
- Peel the Carrier Sheet: Once the vinyl is cold, carefully peel back the carrier sheet. If any part of the design lifts, lay the carrier sheet back down, apply heat and pressure again to that area, and let it cool completely before attempting to peel again.
Following the cold peel recommendation helps ensure the Smart Vinyl adheres properly to your material, leading to a durable finished project.
