10 Best Fabric Transfer Paper with Buying Guide
We all have that one boring t-shirt that we would like to customize – perhaps we would like the poster of our favorite band imprinted on it.
Either way, why keep your garments and accessories plain when you can make them suit your style with the use of a printer and a fabric transfer paper?
Now, while printers are readily available almost everywhere, we do have a scarcity of the latter at our places. And if you are looking to purchase one, then why not just get the best fabric transfer paper?
But hey, you won’t have to put as much effort as you think you do, because we have already done all the work for you.
With hours of research on various products, we have picked the top ten papers, which are all made to amaze!
10 Best Fabric Transfer Paper
If you are looking for reliable fabric transfer papers, then we would like to tell you that you are not alone! That is why we have gathered the top ten papers available in the market and provided all the necessary information regarding them.
Checklist Before You Get Fabric Transfer Papers?
Yes printing fabric with a transfer paper is way cheaper than getting the best t-shirt printing machine for small business, but the process is actually quite tricky if you think about it. That is because there are tons of factors that you need to count when looking for one.
And if you have never experienced purchasing this item before, then there’s a high possibility that you will end up buying the wrong product. Hence, you should consider all the factors before you can move forward.
That is why we have listed all the features and facilities you should look out for. If you keep these in mind, then you will surely get the right product in hand. So, go through the points before you head out to purchase!
Paper Size
One of the first and foremost factors that you should keep your focus on is the size of the paper.
Most people prefer the standard size, which 8.5” x 11”. However, if you are planning on transferring a bigger image, then you should opt for larger papers. However, the standard size would be convenient for most projects.
Type of Printer
Transfer papers usually work with three kinds of paper: inkjet, laser, and sublimation.
Inkjet printers are available in most offices, and so, most transfer papers are made keeping that in mind. However, if you have a different type of printer with yourself, then you can purchase accordingly as well.
Fabric Color
Not all fabric transfer papers are made to work on both dark and light colored fabrics. That is why you should choose yours according to the garments you will be transferring to.
However, there are some papers that can work with fabrics of all colors, which are known as multi-colored papers.
Type of Fabric
The type of fabric that the paper will work with matters as well. For instance, some are ideal for cotton blends, whereas others are made for polyester.
Hence, again, you will have to choose according to the materials of the project you will be conducting.
Does It Crack?
Once you have transferred the material to the fabric, it is crucial to know whether or not it will crack. That is because if it does, then it will ruin the image altogether.
Therefore, you should choose one that can stretch because otherwise, there’s a high chance that it will crack.
Is It Fade-Resistant?
Some transfers can fade with use, which can make the image look rather blurry. Some can fade with washes as well and create various spots on the image, which makes it look worse.
Hence, you should make sure whether or not the transfer paper will deliver fade-resistant material.
Is It Machine-washable?
You wouldn’t want to take the hassle of handwashing all the fabrics you transferred on. That is why it is essential to make sure that it won’t peel off while you are machine washing it.
Check the description of the product, and make sure it is reliable.
Ease of Use
Whether or not you have used a transfer paper before, you should always try to purchase one that is easy to use.
That is simply because something complicated would make the process frustrating and hence, would ruin the project.
1. NEENAH 3G JET-OPAQUE HEAT TRANSFER PAPER
Features
- Paper Size: 8.5 inch x 11 inch
- Use on: Dark/light-colored T-shirts or garments
- Pack: Contains 100 sheets
- Transfer Paper Type: Hot peel
- Use with: Iron, inkjet printer, most software
Are you looking for 3g jet opaque heat transfer papers that will be suitable for both light and dark fabrics? In that case, we have good news for you. Here’s a diverse product that will only keep on exceeding your expectations.
Even if you have never used such items before, you will face absolutely no hassle while working with this one. It comes with all the instructions that you could possibly ask for.
On the other hand, the pack contains about 100 sheets, which will allow you to work with a huge amount of garments. Hence, you won’t have to worry about running out of papers in the middle of your project!
The size of these papers is quite standard, which will let you use them on T-shirts and other similar fabrics easily. With an 8.5″ x 11″ paper size, you have got nothing to worry about.
You can print your desired design using inkjet printers and then use a standard clothing iron to imprint the design on the garment. This aspect also makes the item the best iron on transfer paper.
If you are looking for something more reasonably priced, then this is not the right option for you. On the other hand, since this is not a sublimation paper, you should not be using sublimation ink with this, as that might have unwanted results.
Pros
- Suitable for both light and dark fabrics
- Comes with all the necessary instructions
- Contains about 100 sheets
- Offers a standard paper size
- Works with ink-jet printer and a clothing iron
Cons
- Quite expensive
- Not suitable for sublimation ink
2. Jet-Pro SofStretch Inkjet Heat Transfer Paper
Features
- Paper Size: 8.5 inch x 11 inch
- Use on: Light colored fabrics
- Pack: Contains 50 sheets
- Type of Transfer Paper: Peel and press
- Use with: Handheld iron, ink-jet printer, etc.
As tricky as the process of using heat transfer paper sounds, we can assure you that your experience with this one will be absolutely delightful. That is because it has been designed to be easy to use, and so you have nothing to worry about!
Enough instructions have been provided with the product as well, and following up on those is pretty convenient. For instance, all you will have to do is print, trim, peel, and then press.
The quality of the image on the fabric will be top-notch as well. All the colors will remain vibrant on the light-colored garment, which will give it an enhanced look altogether- impressing all your family and friends!
Not to mention, you won’t have to be concerned about those vibrant colors washing off anytime soon because this item offers durability like none other. Hence, the image will survive even a hundred washes.
The papers also come with a standard size- which is 8.5″ x 11″, and so you will be able to use them on clothes of various sizes. Moreover, you will be getting about 50 sheets in the package, which is more than enough.
Sometimes, the transferred image can be rather fuzzy and can ruin your fabric entirely. Hence, we would suggest you be careful when using it. Moreover, the material won’t stretch and will rather crack after a few uses.
Pros
- Very effortless to use
- Comes with step-by-step instructions
- Leaves vibrant images on light colored garments
- Doesn’t wash off easily
- Offers a standard size and 50 sheets
Cons
- Transferred image can be fuzzy
- The material does not stretch
3. Photo ImageClip Laser Heat Transfer Paper
Features
- Paper Size: 11 inch x 17 inch
- Use on: Light/White-colored fabrics
- Pack: Contains 25 sheets
- Transfer Paper Type: Laser heat transfer
- Use with: Laser printers and copiers
Getting heat transfer papers that work with only one type of fabric would be of no use. Hence, here’s one that is suitable for various kinds of fabrics. You will be able to use it with cotton blends as well as cotton polyester.
What makes this product truly convenient to use is that you won’t have to trim or weed around the image. All you will need to do is follow a simple process to get rid of the polymer film windows.
On the other hand, this product has been designed for hot peel applications, and so you will need to use a commercial heat press machine with it. Other than that, it works in most laser printers and copiers.
This product is quite versatile as well, since you will be able to use it with handbags, mousepads, etc. You can also use it as a shirt transfer paper, as long as the fabric is light-colored.
Moreover, the product has been made using environmentally friendly ingredients only and does not contain any toxic chemicals. So you won’t have to worry about anything when using it.
However, the size of the item is too big, which may not be suitable for garments of various sizes. On the other hand, it comes with only 25 sheets, so you may need to purchase more.
Pros
- Can be used with various kinds of fabrics
- Won’t have to trim or weed around the image
- Designed for hot peel applications
- Usable on light-colored handbags, mousepads, shirts, etc.
- Made with environmentally friendly ingredients only
Cons
- Paper size is bigger than standard
- Only 25 sheets in the pack
4. Avery Printable Heat Transfer Paper for Light Fabrics
Features
- Paper Size: 8.5 inch x 11 inch
- Use on: Light-colored fabrics (masks, aprons, etc.)
- Pack: Contains 18 sheets
- Transfer Paper Type: Hot peel transfer
- Use with: Household iron, press, ink-jet printer
If you are looking for something to personalize your clothes and accessories, which includes face masks, aprons, bags, hats, and t-shirts, then here’s the best heat transfer paper for you. Find out more about it right here.
With a standard size of 8.5″ x 11″, you will be getting about 18 sheets in the package. These papers will be best suited for light-colored fabrics and will provide them with a vibrant and enhanced look.
What makes this product even better is that it comes with a unique formula, which not only leaves the material stretchable but makes it machine washable and fade-resistant as well.
For use, you will be getting detailed instructions on each of the packages, which will make the process very easy for you. And you can either use a household iron or a professional heat press with it.
You can also conveniently print creative images on the papers using inkjet printers right at your place. Once you are done with that, just cut around the unwanted edges with a scissor.
One of the major drawbacks of this product is that the backing of the paper may not peel off once you put it on a piece of fabric. Moreover, the transfer might peel off once you wash the fabric, so be careful.
Pros
- Can be used to personalize various clothes and accessories
- Standard paper size with 18 sheets
- Leaves the material stretchable and machine washable
- Comes with detailed instructions
- Easily used with inkjet printers
Cons
- May not peel off
- The image might peel off while washing
5. Siser EasyWeed HTV Sheets
Features
- Paper Size: 12 inch x 15 inch
- Use on: Multi-coloured fabrics
- Pack: Contains 12 sheets
- Transfer Paper Type: Cold or hot peel
- Use with: Any appliance with a low-pressure setting
If you are having trouble choosing between whether or not you should get transfer papers for light or dark colored fabrics, then we have good news for you. Here are transfer papers that work with every colored fabric.
You will be getting 12 sheets in the pack, and each of them comes in a different color. Moreover, each of the paper comes with a size of about 12″ x 15″, which is ideal for bigger garments.
This material is not only easy to use, but it is readily convenient to cut as well, which makes it hassle-free to work with. Moreover, you will also be able to decorate various fabrics as well.
What makes this rather unique is that it is much thinner than its counterparts. On the other hand, the pressure-sensitive carrier will let you trim out fine designs or small letters easily.
Even after you wash the fabric repeatedly, this material will not disappoint you because it will remain on the surface without any fade. This aspect makes it rather durable and more reliable.
However, the vinyl might feel like a cheap plastic table cloth, which can be disappointing for a lot of users. On the other hand, it won’t stick on the fabric at times, which makes it difficult to use.
Pros
- 12 sheets come in a different color each
- Can be cut easily
- Much thinner than its counterparts
- Pressure-sensitive carrier makes it easy to trim out small designs
- Does not fade even after repeated washes
Cons
- Feels like a cheap plastic table cloth
- Won’t stick on the fabric
6. Angel Crafts Transfer Paper Tape
Features
- Tape Size: 6 inch x 50 feet
- Use on: Vinyl heat transfer papers
- Pack: Contains one white tape
- Tape Type: Needs to be glued
- Use with: Cricut, Silhouette Cameo
To execute a project just right, you will need to have the right product with you. And here’s one, which will help you design your home or your gift just right, without any trouble whatsoever.
If you are concerned about the alignment going wrong, then this product is here to discard all your worries. It comes with red grid lines, which will make sure the alignment is perfect while keeping air bubbles out of the way.
Not to mention, you will be getting proper instructions with this item. Hence, even with no prior experience in this sector, you will be able to work effortlessly using this.
On the other hand, the work will be done with no mess whatsoever, and as a result, you will have nothing to stress about. The paper will lay flat while you do your work, making things convenient for you.
Although you will need to use glue with this, there will be no residues of adhesive on the vinyl. Moreover, it won’t tear or rip your project as well and will peel off conveniently.
However, there might be some slight curling after application, which can be unpleasant to look at. Moreover, the thickness of the item may be an inconvenience during some projects, so do consider that.
Pros
- Designs home or gift without any hassle
- Provides perfect alignment with red grid line
- Comes with proper instructions
- Ensures no mess and paper lays flat
- Leaves no adhesive residue on the vinyl
Cons
- There might be slight curling after application
- The thickness may be bothersome
7. PPD Inkjet PREMIUM Iron-On Transfer Papers
Features
- Paper Size: 8.5 inch x 11 inch
- Use on: Dark and Black T-shirts
- Pack: Contains 10 sheets
- Transfer Paper Type: Hot press peel
- Use with: Inkjet printers, domestic iron, heat press machine
If you are looking for a heat transfer paper that will work with various sorts of textiles, then here’s an ideal one for you. It can be used for aprons, shirts, bags, etc.
You will be able to cut the unnecessary parts using both normal scissors and cutting machines. Not to mention, you will be able to use it with both domestic iron and hot press machines.
This premium product has been made using a unique formula, which will leave the fabric crack-free, soft, and flexible. In fact, you will be able to wash it using machines as well, without having to worry about fades.
You can easily print any design you want using inkjet printers. What makes it even better is that you will only need to use regular ink with it, so no need to purchase anything extra for the paper.
With this product at hand, you will be able to customize multiple items for various parties and home decorations. For that, step-by-step instructions have been provided with the item as well.
But you need to be careful when ironing the fabric because that might result in the image having spots. Moreover, the fabric transfer will give off a horrible smell, which may not be bearable for some.
Pros
- Works with various types of textiles
- Can be cut using scissors and cutting machines
- Unique formula leaves the fabric crack-free and soft
- Can be used with regular ink
- Step-by-step instructions have been provided
Cons
- Ironing might result in the image having spots
- Might give off a horrible smell after application
8. Avery Printable Heat Transfer Paper for Dark Fabrics
Features
- Paper Size: 8.5 inch x 11 inch
- Use on: Any dark clothing
- Pack: Contains 5 sheets
- Transfer Paper Type: Iron-on transfers
- Use with: Inkjet printers, household irons, professional hot press
Finding high-quality heat transfer papers that are easy to use may be difficult. However, here’s one that offers both the facilities along with a lot more. Its performance will only amaze you with every use.
With this product, you can customize your face masks, aprons, t-shirts, and other items without any hassle. Its standard 8.5″ x 11″ size will allow you to use it on various fabrics with no trouble.
The paper is ideal for use on dark-colored fabrics, and its unique formula will make sure there are no cracks on the materials. Moreover, the material will remain stretchable, soft, and fade-resistant.
Moreover, the product comes with full instructions regarding its use, and with a household iron, you will be able to easily transfer images. You will also be able to use it with a professional heat press.
You can effortlessly print your own creations at home on this inkjet heat transfer paper. Afterward, you can cut out the unnecessary parts using normal scissors without any hassle.
But you will have to be careful while cutting out the designs because the ink will come off quite easily. On the other hand, the description does not specify that it isn’t necessary to reverse the paper while transferring the image.
Pros
- Effortless to use
- Standard 8.5” x 11” size goes with many items
- Ideal for dark fabrics and leaves no cracks
- Can be used with an iron or a heat press
- Cuttable out using normal scissors
Cons
- Ink comes off while cutting
- The description does not contain all information
9. Epson Iron-on Cool Peel Transfer
Features
- Paper Size: 8.5 inch x 11 inch
- Use on: White or bright fabrics
- Pack: Contains 10 sheets
- Transfer Paper Type: Iron-on cool peel
- Use with: Regular household iron
Now, you won’t have to risk burning your hands while trying to peel the transfer paper because here’s one that does all the transfer after being cooled off. There are several other aspects that make it unique!
You can customize any fabric you want using this, as long as the fabric is light-colored. This aspect makes it ideal for canvas bags, t-shirts, etc. Hence, you won’t have to buy separate products for various items.
Moreover, the paper comes with a standard size of 8.5” x 11”. Therefore, you won’t have to be concerned about whether or not it would be suitable for your chosen garment.
The package contains about 10 sheets, which would be enough for you to complete one project – and it provides excellent value for money as well, so you won’t be at a loss.
What makes this item truly amazing is that you won’t need to purchase anything separately for it because it can be used with whatever you have at home. For instance, you can just do the transfer using a household iron.
However, the images can get cracked if you use them on a stretchable fabric, which can be disappointing. Moreover, it can peel off the next day after application, so you should be careful with it.
Pros
- Iron-on cool peel transfer
- Ideal for use on canvas bags, t-shirts, etc
- Standard size of 8.5” x 11”
- Provides excellent value for money
- Can be used with a household iron
Cons
- Cracks when used on a stretchable fabric
- Peels off the next day after application
10. A-SUB Inkjet Printable Iron-On Heat Transfer Paper
Features
- Paper Size: 8.5 inch x 11 inch
- Use on: Light coloured fabrics
- Pack: Contains 10 sheets
- Transfer Paper Type: Iron-on heat transfer
- Use with: Home iron, heat press machines, inkjet printers
Want to customize your pillowcase but don’t know which product you will be needing? Or do you need to personalize your t-shirt? In any case, this product will be ideal as long as they are light-colored and cotton!
To transfer the image to your desired fabric, you need to use a household iron or a heat press machine. Either way, the process is very easy, and you won’t face any hassle, even if it’s your first time.
To make things easier for you, the product comes with full instructions regarding use. Once you follow them entirely, the design will be transferred vividly while closely adhering to the fabrics.
On the other hand, the paper is compatible with inkjet printers, and you will be able to use regular ink on it as well. However, for better results, you can use pigmented ink.
With this product, you will easily be able to make your own personalized gift. All you will have to do is print, cut, and then transfer. The process of cutting is pretty effortless as well.
However, the transfer might turn yellow, which can be pretty disappointing and unpleasant to look at. Moreover, the material might crack after the first wash, so you should be careful during the process.
Pros
- Usable on many light-colored cotton fabrics
- Can be used with household iron or a heat press machine
- Comes with full instructions regarding the use
- Compatible with inkjet printers and regular ink
- Effortless to use
Cons
- The transfer might turn yellow
- Material might crack after the first wash
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a regular printer for transfer papers?
Most transfer papers are made to work with regular printers as well as regular ink. Hence, you won’t face any trouble when using a transfer paper with your office inkjet printer and such.
Does transfer paper really work on fabric?
Yes, transfer paper has been specifically made for transferring images on fabrics, so it does work on that. Moreover, they can work on several other materials as well. You can find out more about their uses on the individual product’s description.
Are transfer papers usually glossy or matte?
Some transfer papers provide a matte finish, whereas others come with a glossy one. This aspect truly varies from product to product, and one answer cannot speak for all. Hence, we would suggest you choose according to your preferences.
What is the best transfer paper for fabric?
There are tons of options when it comes to fabric transfer papers. However, there are some that are surely better than the others, and among them, AVERY T-Shirt Transfers for Inkjet Printers would be the best overall.
What is the best heat transfer paper for dark shirts?
There are several heat transfer papers out there that would be suitable for dark shirts. And although they are all great in their own ways, PPD Inkjet Iron-On Dark T Shirt Transfers Paper is often known as the best.
Can I Use Fabric Transfer Paper for Quilting Projects?
When it comes to quilting projects, using fabric transfer paper can add unique designs to your creations. However, the success of your quilting project also depends on the best hand quilting batting options you choose. Selecting the right batting can make a significant difference in the quality and durability of your quilt.
Final Words
Although each product will suit your project requirements differently, in our opinion, there is one that tops the others.
And that is Avery Printable Heat Transfer Paper for Light Fabrics.
We would name it the best fabric transfer paper because it comes with all the aspects that you would be looking for. It is of the standard size, and it is easy to use, stretchable and fade-resistant. Hence, we do think it’s quite ideal.
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