— 熱轉印

Heat Transfer Printing

Full-color photos OK · Small runs from 100 · The apparel customization workhorse

T-shirts / hoodiesSportswearCanvas bagsCeramic mugs

— Cost

Medium

— Lead Time

Sample 2-3 days · Production 5-8 days

— Suggested MOQ

100+

— Materials

5 types

What is it

Heat transfer printing prints designs on transfer paper/film first, then presses them onto products at 150-180°C. Two main types: sublimation (for polyester) and vinyl transfer (for cotton, leather, others). Great for small runs, full-color designs, photos, and fine details.

Best for

Cotton / blend T-shirts
Hoodies / sportswear
Canvas bags
Ceramic mugs (sublimation)
Mouse pads / fabric 3C accessories
Down jackets / nylon (vinyl)

Materials

Cotton, polyester (apparel)
Ceramics (mugs - sublimation)
Nylon / polyester (jackets)
Canvas / hemp
Synthetic leather

Advantages

Economical from small runs (100+)
Full color, gradients, and photos supported
Works on all common apparel materials
Short lead time (no plate setup)
Prints on both light and dark fabrics

Limitations

Wash cycles fewer than screen print (~30-50)
Vinyl transfer has a film-like texture
Unit price higher than screen print at 500+
Large area prints prone to wrinkling / peeling

Frequently Asked Questions

Heat transfer vs screen printing?+

Heat transfer applies a printed film on top — has film texture, supports full-color photos, economical at 100+. Screen printing embeds ink in fibers — thin feel, few colors (1-4), economical at 300+. Complex designs → heat transfer. Few colors → screen printing.

Can heat transfer be used on mugs?+

Yes, via sublimation. Coated ceramic mugs allow the sublimation ink to dye the coating, giving a completely smooth, no-film, wash-resistant finish. Standard method for custom mugs.

Is heat transfer wash-resistant?+

Yes. Wash inside-out, cool water (under 30°C), avoid high-heat drying — should last 30-50+ washes.

What's the minimum order for heat transfer?+

No true MOQ, starts from 1 unit. Best pricing at 100+. Small runs (10-50) doable at higher unit price, good for internal company events.

Can heat transfer be used on leather?+

Synthetic leather yes, real leather better with laser engraving or hot stamping — heat transfer durability on real leather is poor and peels over time.