Best Printable Heat Transfer Paper: Reviews, Buying Guide and FAQs 2023

Heat transfer technology is a perfect way to have fun and make money by printing t-shirts, hats, mugs, and plates. Heat transfer crafts are made by printing an image or pattern on heat transfer paper, a special paper form. After that, a heat press system is used to apply pressure at the appropriate temperature and press the pattern into the intended shirt or mug.

The most productive approach for producing high-quality custom T-shirts and garments is to use heat transfer paper. Unfortunately, finding the right printable heat transfer paper is difficult, particularly if you are new to the heat transfer industry.

However, we have prepared some useful information which includes the 7 best heat transfer papers you can find together with their merits and demerits.

Let's get started.

Top Picks: Printable Heat Transfer Paper in 2023

• #
  Preview
  Product
  Rating
• Bestseller No. 1
  
  NuFun Activities Heat Transfer Paper for T Shirts, Dark Fabrics, Inkjet Printable Iron On...
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 2
  
  PPD Inkjet Premium T Shirt Transfer Paper - Iron On for Dark Fabric - 8.5 x 11 inch Paper...
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 3
  
  Jet-PRO SS JETPRO SOFSTRETCH Heat Transfer Paper 8.5 X 11" Custom Pack 100 Sheets
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 4
  
  Koala Iron On Heat Transfer Paper for White and Light Fabrics- 10 Sheets 8.5x11 Inch...
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 5
  
  Avery Printable Heat Transfer Paper for Dark Fabrics, 8.5" x 11", Inkjet Printer, 5 Iron...
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 6
  
  Iron on Heat Transfer Paper for Dark Fabric 8.5x11 inch Printable T Shirt Transfer Paper...
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 7
  
  Neenah Paper Techni Print EZP Heat Transfer Paper for Laser Printers 8.5" x 11" - 25...
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 8
  
  A-SUB Sublimation Paper Heat Transfer 110 Sheets 8.5 x 11 Inches Letter Size Compatible...
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 9
  
  Avery Printable Heat Transfer Paper for Light Fabrics, 8.5" x 11", Inkjet Printer, 12...
  Rating:

  
  

Top 7 Best Printable Heat Transfer Paper Reviews 2023

1. PPD Inkjet PREMIUM Iron-On Dark T-Shirt Transfers Paper

If you want to get into the t-shirt printing industry and are searching for the right t-shirt transfer paper for Dark T-shirts, this PPD inkjet transfer paper helps you to print personalized images, texts, letters, artwork, and patterns onto several things like t-shirts, pillows, flags, banners, and many more.

But why PPD Dark Transfer Paper,

Not only is this transfer paper stretchable, but also highly durable. It works well with both Iron and Heat Press. Unlike other Transfer papers, this can suit any color fabric such as cotton, Linen, and other fabrics that can be iron or pressed at maximum temperature.

Highlighted Features

• Suite Many Textile- Created with advanced and innovative technology, this T-shirt printing paper can work with different fabrics such as cotton, poly-cotton, aprons, pillowcases, and many more.
• Can be used with both IRON or Heat Press- If you want to transfer images to t-shirts, text to jerseys using a domestic iron or Heat Press, this paper is perfect for you. Interestingly you can cut this paper with scissors without having to use cutting machines.
• Professional quality - The ability to bond with the fabric and stretch without peeling off determines how quality a printing paper is. This High-quality transfer paper is nothing short of the best because it is uniquely made to be a crack-free-soft, flexible, and fully washable machine.
• Compatible with all inkjet printers- If you have an inkjet printer, this is more than enough to get started. You do not have to buy any other ink because you can use the regular printer ink.

Pros

• It is compatible with all inkjet printers.
• You can use it with regular ink.
• It can be cut with both a cutting machine or scissors.
• Supports Iron and press Transfer.
• Great for kid's crafts, family reunions, birthdays, and anniversaries.

Cons

• It is extremely thin.
• Curls quite easily.
• It does not hold the color.

2. NuFun Activities Inkjet Printable Iron-On Heat Transfer Paper

If you're looking for a different transfer paper for dark cloth, this is the one to use. It is perfectly designed to assist you in the beginning in creating projects for yourself and your mates. This creates only happy results and prints that are incredibly durable and can last for a long time.

Additionally, printers such as EPSON, HP, Lexmark, Brother, and Canon can be used in conjunction with their standard printer ink. When it comes to transferring, you can quickly do so with a standard iron or a heat press. As a result, you can easily personalize T-shirts, face masks, bags, caps, aprons, and pretty much everything else made of cotton.

Highlighted Features

• High quality - This iron-on transfer paper is made professional-grade to help you develop quality designs if you are running a T-shirt printing business.
• Compatible with inkjet printers - You do not need an extra printer. You already have CANON, Lexmark, or any inkjet printer. It can work well with all inkjet printers, and more importantly, you can print with normal ink, unlike other transfer papers which need sublimation ink.
• Easy to use - Designed for dark fabrics, printing and cutting this paper is nothing but a breeze; with just a scissor, you are good to go with cutting your designs.

Pros

• Great for personalizing sports, schools, businesses, and events T-shirts.
• Works with both laser and inkjet printers.
• Easy to use.
• Top-quality transfer paper.
• Works with both heat press and Iron

Cons

• When washed, the ink may start to crack or peel off.

3. TransOurDream Tru-Iron on Heat Transfer Paper for Dark Fabric

If you want to maximize transfer efficiency? This bright and lively easy-to-cut paper is ideal. Cotton fabrics, canvas, lycra, elastic, mesh, chemical fiber, and nylon fabrics can all be printed quickly and with long-lasting results, since they were made to be stretchable and non-breakable

If you are new to T-shirt printing, this could be a nice alternative because it is convenient to use, easy to cut, and fairly priced. Aside from working with normal ink, you can even use sublimation ink. When pressing on these colors, make sure the temperature is not too hot, as this can allow the color to turn white to grey.

Highlighted Features

• Easy to Use - For beginners, this paper offers you an opportunity to get up and running even if you don't have enough knowledge in the T-shirt printing industry. You can easily cut with scissors or a die-cutting machine.
• Quality Transfers- Created with advanced technology and unique formula, this paper gives you soft, vibrant, and durable transfers. That way, there will be no peeling, cracking, and fading even after.
• Wide applications - It enables you to transfer text, images, photos, and pictures into dark T-shirts, totes, canvas bags, aprons, flags, and banners. With this, you can make DIY gifts for your friends or family.

Pros

• It can print a wide variety of fabrics.
• Easy to use.
• High-quality transfer paper.
• No peeling and cracking.
• Easy to cut.
• Great Price.

Cons

• It does not stick when pressed with Iron.

4. PPD Inkjet PREMIUM Iron-On White and Light-Colored T-Shirt Transfers Paper

This transparent background transfer paper binds with the fabric, leaving it soft, stretchable if you choose to print personalized images, designs, artwork, and texts on T-shirts, tablecloths, flags, and banners on white and/or light fabrics and completely washable.

Compatible with any brand of inkjet printer, you can be able to use it with any standard tools, whether dye-based or pigmented. In addition, you can easily do pressing either with iron or commercially using a professional heat press machine. It works perfectly on white and light cotton fabrics. That way, you can customize t-shirts and kid's crafts, brand recognition, and home decoration.

Highlighted Features

• Use Normal ink- Since it is designed to work with the regular inkjet printer such as Epson and others, you can comfortably use your normal ink, and you will still get amazing designs.
• Professional Quality - If you are doing a commercial T-shirt printing business, this paper will help keep your customers coming. The quality of transfers you get is 100% satisfactory to you and your clients.
• Easy to cut - Interestingly, this paper will save a lot of money you could have used to buy an additional cutting machine. You do need that; with only a pair of scissors, you can cut your paper gently and prepare it for printing.

Pros

• It is a very vibrant heat transfer paper.
• It can be used with a variety of fabrics.
• Top professional quality.
• Easy to use.
• Truly compatible with inkjet printers.
• A better alternative to screen printing.

Cons

• It does peels off after a couple of washes.

5. Avery Printable Heat Transfer Paper for Dark Fabrics

Avery is the perfect iron-on transfer paper for beginners with a passion for T-shirt printing since it comes with personalized templates to help you get started with the designs of your creations. This helps you to print dark dyed fabrics that are 100% cotton or any poly-cotton mix fabrics. Furthermore, you can move the specification in a matter of minutes using a household iron and heat press machine.

Not only will you be able to print custom or branded T-shirts but also hats, bags, pillowcases, and many more. It is made with fade-resistant color to make your design quality and last longer, ensuring that it does not crack or peel off when washed.

Highlighted Features

• Wide Applications - This transfer paper gives you the luxury to great and customize face masks, t-shirts, aprons, pillowcases, hats, and many more.
• Perfect for black fabrics- If you have given up on other brands of transfer papers that do not provide high-quality designs when it comes to dark cotton fabrics, then this comes to your rescue. With it, you can print images, photos, and text to any black cotton fabric.
• Easy to use - With just an inkjet printer and regular ink, you can print and cut the iron-on transfer paper using a pair of scissors or a compatible cutting machine.

Pros

• It can be cut with scissors or a cutting machine.
• It is stretchable.
• Machine washable.
• It is fade-resistant.
• Perfect for dark-colored fabrics.
• Compatible with all inkjet printers.

Cons

• Color might start fading after a few washes.

6. Printworks Dark T-Shirt Transfers for Inkjet Printers.

If you want to find the right inkjet transfer paper that can be used on both dark and light fabrics? This one has the job done. It improves the color of your image, as opposed to other brands, which gives it a gray look. It is a good heat transfer paper with bright colors and clear edges.

While it cannot be used with a laser printer, it can be used with any inkjet printer and standard printer ink. In addition, it is the fastest printer to use; you will be done with your conversion process from start to finish in less than 10 minutes. As a result, you will make fantastic T-shirts, sportswear, and caps.

Highlighted Features

• Perfect for Dark fabric- Since it is created for but not limited to dark fabrics, it is ideal for Halloween costumes and crafts.
• Easy to use- If you are a beginner and you want just to get started quickly with the t-shirt printing business, then this is for you.
• Top-quality- created to be fade-resistant, this iron-on photo paper produces quality images long-lasting when transferred to t-shirts.

Pros

• Assured quality.
• It is affordable.
• It is easy to transfer.
• It can be used in both dark and light fabrics.

Cons

• Sometimes the color white does not stay white when printed on fabric; it turns gray.

7. Avery Printable Heat Transfer Paper for Light Fabrics.

If you like Avery products and want the right t-shirt conversion paper, this is a great option for printing on light shirts. You will get predesigned templates to help you get started fast with free and easy-to-use templates. Even though it is designed to use light cotton fabrics, it is available in light and dark colors. The reason it is great for starters is the fact that it is compatible with all the inkjet printers. Besides, you can transfer using normal Iron or commercially with a heat press.

The color shield formula that is made with it makes it stay bright even after being washed. But, most importantly, it guarantees you quality results with professional and fashionable-looking T-shirts, hats, and aprons.

Highlighted Features

• Professional transfers - This paper gives you the ability to print t-shirts, aprons, pillowcases, bags and face masks, and more.
• Last long- Made to be fade-resistant, your transfers will not exhibit cracks and color fading after a couple of washes.
• Free Templates - For beginners who are new to design and want to get started easily, Avery brands provide free predesigned templates that can be customized and printed.

Pros

• Compatible with inkjet printers.
• No cracking
• Free templates and designs
• It is affordable.
• Quality results.

Cons

• Sometimes the designs from the transfer start peeling, cracking, and tearing apart.

Buying Guide for the Best Printable Heat Transfer Paper

It isn't easy to find the right heat transfer paper that yields high-quality results. Picking the incorrect and horrible transfer paper is terrible for beginners or people who have no idea what transfer paper is.

Below, we have outlined the key factors you must consider to make a perfect choice for yourself.

Opacity

One of the things you must consider when purchasing a heat transfer paper is the color of the fabric you want to personalize,

As you might have seen in our review above, it is clear that there is a difference between the papers used with light and dark fabrics.

For instance, if you want to personalize a white t-shirt, you have to find a labeled paper for use with light-colored fabrics.

You have to be keen on the color because the wrong choice of paper leads to unappealing results.

Type of Printer

Another important factor to note is the type of printer you use. There are basically three main types of printers used for heat transfer, e.g., inkjet, sublimation, and laser printers.

From the preceding analysis, you may have seen that inkjet printers are the most popular, as many heat transfer papers are designed to be compatible with any inkjet printer. Furthermore, they are inexpensive, and their prototypes are nothing short of outstanding. So, before purchasing the right heat transfer paper, make sure that it is compatible with the printer you use.

Durability

The concern here is whether the paper is fade immune. A heat transfer paper is resilient if the patterns transferred to t-shirts retain their adhesion even after many washes.

Therefore, a perfect paper should be able to hold up to multiple washes without showing any indication of peeling, cracking, or fading.

Some features that enhance the durability of transfer paper include color vibrancy, hand feel, and elasticity.

Size of Papers

Do you need to double-check the document size? True. Know that transfer papers come in various sizes, and size matters depending on what you want to use them for. For example, larger transfer pages are recommended if you wish to deal with larger designs and photographs. This will help you stop the hack if you need to print several times to accommodate bigger designs.

How to Print on Heat Transfer Paper

In order to print on heat transfer paper, you will need to have a printer that is capable of printing on transparencies. Once you have the correct printer, you will need to select the type of heat transfer paper that you are using. Different types of heat transfer papers have different instructions for printing, so be sure to read the instructions carefully before starting.

Once you have your printer set up and your heat transfer paper selected, you can begin printing your design. Be sure to print at the highest quality setting possible in order to get the best results. After your design has been printed, it's time to start transferring it to your project!

To do this, you will need to place your project on a flat surface and then place the heat transfer paper on top of it. You will then need to use a household iron to heat the paper and transfer the design onto your project. Be sure to apply pressure evenly and hold the iron in place for at least 15 seconds. If you are using a vinyl cutter to create your design, you can also use it to cut out the design once it has been transferred.

Different Ways to Use Heat Transfer Paper

There are a few different ways that you can use heat transfer paper to create custom designs on fabrics. You can use an iron, a heat press, or a laser printer to create your designs. Here are a few tips for using each of these methods:

Iron:

• Start by choosing a design that you want to transfer to your fabric.
• Print out the design on heat transfer paper.
• Position the fabric on a flat surface, and then place the heat transfer paper on top of the fabric.
• Iron the heat transfer paper onto the fabric using a medium-heat setting. Make sure to iron in a circular motion so that the design is evenly transferred to the fabric.

Heat Press:

• Choose a design that you want to transfer to your fabric.
• Print out the design on heat transfer paper.
• Lay the fabric on a flat surface, and then place the heat transfer paper on top of the fabric.
• Put the heat press onto the fabric, and then apply pressure for about 10-15 seconds.

Laser Printer:

• Choose a design that you want to transfer to your fabric.
• Print out the design on heat transfer paper.
• Lay the fabric on a flat surface, and then place the heat transfer paper on top of the fabric.
• Use a laser printer to print the design onto the heat transfer paper. Make sure to print in mirror image so that the design is correctly printed onto the paper.
• Iron the heat transfer paper onto the fabric using a medium-heat setting. Make sure to iron in a circular motion so that the design is evenly transferred to the fabric.

Expert Tips for Using Heat Transfer Paper

If you're looking to create your own custom t-shirts, heat transfer paper is a must-have tool in your arsenal. Here are some expert tips for using heat transfer paper:

1. Make sure that the surface you're transferring the image to is clean and dry. Any dirt or oil on the surface will cause the image to peel or fade over time.
2. Cut out your design carefully, making sure that there are no sharp edges that could snag on the fabric.
3. Preheat your iron to the correct temperature for the type of heat transfer paper you're using. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, as each type of paper has its own specific guidelines.
4. Place the image face down on the fabric, and then press the iron firmly onto the image. Hold it in place for a few seconds, and then lift it up. Repeat this process until the image is fully transferred.
5. Allow the fabric to cool completely before washing it. If you wash the fabric before it's cooled down, the image may start to peel or fade.

These are just a few tips for using heat transfer paper. For more information, be sure to consult the manufacturer's instructions or an expert in this field. With the right knowledge, you can create beautiful custom t-shirts that will last for years!

How to Cut Heat Transfer Paper with Silhouette Cameo?

If you are still new to Silhouette CAMEO, you might get overwhelmed trying to cut your first heat transfer paper.

Before you get started with Silhouette Cameo, You need the following:

• A silhouette cutting machine.
• Heat transfer paper.

How to Set Up the Cut Settings for Silhouette CAMEO ?

Before sending your designs to your machines, you will need to set up cut settings as follows:

• Open the cut settings by using the icon in the top menu or a dropdown menu in the header section and chose "cut settings."
• Set up a cut style for the selected shape.
• Select the type of material or media that you will be cutting.
• Now you can Test the cut to make sure everything is okay

For you to cut heat transfer vinyl, you need to follow the following steps:

• Load your design into your Silhouette Studio software.
• Click graphics and the replicated icon on the toolbar at the top, and choose Mirror Right or Mirror Left.
• Once you are ready to cut, load heat transfer paper into the Silhouette
• Set the width of the rollers to accommodate the paper.
• Select "Load Media" on the screen of the silhouette CAMEO and push the enter button to load the material, and you are done.

Having done that and followed the steps correctly, you probably have your first design already cut and ready to be printed. Even though it looks like many steps, you will be surprised how easy it is to do.

Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) vs. Heat Transfer Paper

What is the distinction between Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl and Heat Transfer Paper? Allow me to explain.

The main distinction is that you print on paper for heat transfer and then use a heat press to press it onto the right garment. On the other hand, you first print on the vinyl for printable vinyl before heat pressing it onto the garment. Unlike heat transfer material, heat press vinyl is cut with a cutter and then weeded before pressing it on the garment.

You see:

Printable HTV cannot be used with a standard desktop printer, such as a laser or inkjet printer. You'll need a printer that uses Solvent, Eco-solvent, or Latex inks to print on it. Since they are larger than a desktop inkjet or laser printer, they are medium-format printers. The initial cost needed to get started significantly high compared to heat transfer. It is, however, a great way to add variety, especially when you are running a business.

On the contrary, Heat transfer paper is specifically designed to work with any inkjet or laser printer perfectly. Common brands that can work with this paper include Samsung, Canon, Brother, Epson, and Oki. They come in smaller size packs that are made for standard desktop printers. In addition, using Heat transfer paper is a great way to print your custom heat transfers. It can be used with cotton, polyester, and blends fabrics.

So which is best?

Printable vinyl is much better than paper. This is because you can use it on cotton, polyester, or pretty much anything.

FAQ about Printable Heat Transfer Papers

How do I use an HTV printable?

To use this printer, first set the paper type on your printer to "Normal paper," set the resolution to normal, feed single sheets into your printer, print the image, and allow it to dry for about 5 minutes before transferring.

How do you print and cut on heat transfer paper?

To do so, you must first create a new project or launch an existing one. Then, following the picture form and preview, Load the printer and make sure the cutting system is turned on before selecting the Print page and printing. Next, you can cut the shapes you like with scissors or use a Cricut to cut them. Finally, weed the pattern to clear any excess scrap before pressing it to your cloth.

Can you use a regular printer to print on transfer paper?

Yes, transfer papers are designed to allow you to print images, text, and pictures on most fabrics using normal inkjet printers and regular ink.

How do you use heat transfer paper?

To use transfer paper, first, print the designs on standard inkjet paper. Then, using scissors or a suitable knife, cut out the designs to the desired form and press them to the cloth using an iron or heat press.

Buy now at Walmart, eBay, Etsy (limited quantity)

NuFun Activities Inkjet Printable Iron-On Heat Transfer Paper for T Shirts and Dark - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

PPD Inkjet Premium Iron-On Dark T Shirt Transfers Paper LTR 8.5x11" Pack of 20 Sheets - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Jet-PRO SS JETPRO SOFSTRETCH Heat Transfer Paper 8.5 X 11" Custom Pack 100 Sheets - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Koala Iron On Heat Transfer Paper for White and Light Fabrics- 10 Sheets 8.5x11 Inch - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Avery Printable T-Shirt Transfers, For Use on Dark Fabrics, Inkjet Printers, 5 Paper - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Inkjet Iron on Transfer Paper for Dark & Light T-Shirts, 8.5x11" Heat Transfer Paper for - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Neenah Paper Techni Print EZP Heat Transfer Paper for Laser Printers 8.5" x 11" - 25 - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

A-SUB Sublimation Paper Heat Transfer 110 Sheets 8.5 x 11 Inches Letter Size Compatible - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Avery Printable T-Shirt Transfers, For Use on Light Fabrics, Inkjet Printers, 12 Paper - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Conclusion for Printable Heat Transfer Paper Buyers

Heat transfer papers are an excellent way to decorate and personalize your clothes. As compared to screen printing, it is the most cost-effective alternative. Furthermore, it is straightforward to use for both beginners and experts.

Having gone through the basics of what you need to know before buying a heat transfer paper, there is no doubt that you can potentially pick what will be the best for you.

Finally, the best heat transfers outlined above are a great starting point for you to look at and pick the best that will help you create impressive and long-lasting designs.

Recommendation:

• Best Printable Sticker Paper Reviews
• 10 Best Iron on Transfer Paper
• Best Graph Paper Reviews
• Top 10 Best Watercolor Paper Reviews
• Top 6 Best Laser Printer Paper Reviews