Heat Transfer Vinyl on Metal
A Pairing You Never Knew You Needed
Some of you, our dear crafts enthusiasts, may think that Heat Transfer Vinyl is almost exclusively made for a good range of fabrics only. Well, can we blame you? It’s not every day that one finds HTV paired with different materials other than the usual cotton, polyester, polycotton, and other compatible textiles.
But just in case you haven’t fully realized it yet, let us remind you that here in the crafts world, possibilities are plenty and, at times, unexpected. And today, we will put this truth to the test by exploring one of the most unconventional materials you can ever think of using with HTV-METAL!
So, if you’re as excited as me, let us cut the chase and discover what beauty awaits in the fusion of these two unlikely pairings.
Can you use HTV on Metal?
There’s a widely accepted but unofficial rule that Adhesive Vinyl should be officially used for solid & smooth surfaces. True enough, this type of vinyl can really walk the talk as it adheres perfectly to glass, wood, and metal, ceramic, to name a few. However, some of these materials are not exclusively bound on Adhesive Vinyl alone. Because surprisingly, HTV adheres well also on some of these solid surfaces. And this brings us to the fact that metal makes a suitable accomplice too for Heat Transfer Vinyl.
Yes! You’ve read it right; HTV can be used on metal.
But hey! I know what you’re thinking. You are correct to believe that metal quickly absorbs heat, and right to assume that it can pose a challenge during the transfer process, but worry not, for there are simple & easy ways to help you navigate through such an obstacle.
How do you use HTV on Metal?
Using Heat Transfer Vinyl on Metal is fundamentally the same as how you apply HTV on other substrates. So, for someone already familiar with the method, transferring HTV won’t be a back-breaking task for you.
What’s good about the HTV application on metal is that you can use any heating tool. Whether you have a standard home iron, an Easy Press, or a Heat Press, all these can do the work just fine.
But you know us, we don’t just share what is acceptable with you, so here’s a simple tip that can make your process more efficient and convenient.
As you go along, you’ll soon find yourself working on some metal-made products of different forms and sizes. For this reason, it is best to match the size and operability of your heating tool to the substrate. Here’s why: you may have difficulty operating a heat press on metal tumblers or find it time-consuming to use a home iron on large metal signage. Or worst, deform a round-shaped, thin metal container if you insist on pressing it on a clamp-type standard heat press. To avoid these undesirable scenarios, we highly encourage you to follow our simple solution.
But, not all of us have that many options for a heat source. So, let us guide you on the standard procedure that applies regardless of equipment present in your household.
How do you heat press metal?
Unlike in other substrates, heat pressing metal requires a bit more caution since this material conducts heat rapidly. Here are some great helpful tips that can guide you into a successful HTV application on metal:
- Before placing your vinyl decal, make sure that the surface is dirt and oil-free. Just a swipe of cloth or cotton with alcohol is enough to keep it clean.
- Since metal has a smooth surface, there’s a tendency for the design to move and get displaced. This is when the heat-resistant tape can come in handy. Use it to place the design where you want it to be securely.
- Do not forget the protective power of a Teflon sheet. But you can also use a piece of cloth or parchment paper as a substitute.
- For the temperature, it’s always best to check the recommended heat settings. Common Heat Transfer Vinyl is usually set at 300 degrees for about 10 seconds press time. As always, if you want to make sure which setting gives the best result, do a test press.
- It will be too hot for your bare hands to touch the metal if it gets subjected entirely to heat, so use heat-resistant gloves, or a hand towel, or even an oven mitten to safely handle it.
- To avoid any chance of damage, check first if the HTV is cold or hot peel.
- After removing the carrier sheet, press it one more time to seal the vinyl. Don’t forget to add a layer of Teflon sheet again before pressing it.
- Wait for it to cool down. But if you want to fast-track the cooling process, you can tap the service of a hairdryer. Once cooled, you can finally jump for joy, for you’ve succeeded in your first metal-HTV project.
If you’re applying HTV on a curvy surface like tumblers, I highly recommend using small iron or a mini-press. Place it somewhere stable & heat resistant. If you don’t have any solid holder, you can improvise using a folded towel. One important reminder: Do not slide your iron over the vinyl. Doing so will likely result in damage to the vinyl. You can hold the item and conveniently rotate it to target the specific area you want to press for a more precise application.
In general, heat-pressing metal is not that exhausting. As long as you incorporate our care tips, you can smoothly turn a plain-looking metal product into a special & striking creative item.
Can you use a heat press on stainless steel?
This is another question that is puzzling the minds of our many friends here in the HTV world. In principle, a heat press can be used on stainless steel. As long as it’s flat and won’t be easily deformed under intense pressure, then you can definitely give it a try. However, since stainless steel is commonly used to make tumblers, mugs, bottles, and other curved-surfaces products, I would not recommend a heat press for these items. Instead, I suggest the use of small iron or a handy Easy Press.
What are some metal objects you can add HTV to?
It’s unbelievable how easy it is to apply HTV on metal! And at this moment, I can feel how excited you are to put your personal spin on metal. So, to further build up the thrill in you, here is the wide array of metal-made & products you can add a sprinkle of your artistry with.
From essential & decorative home items:
- Metal Bins
- Stainless Steel Trash Bins
- Stainless Steel Water Buckets
- Watering Cans
- Metal Cups
- Metal Signs
To personal things & kids’ stuff:
- Name Plates
- License Plates
- Metal Lunchboxes
- Water Bottles
- Stainless Steel Tumblers
- Stainless Steel Key Chain
With the combination of HTV & Metal, there’s surely a perfect item that can satisfy you and your loved ones. There’s obviously an even longer list of objects made of metal that can pair well with HTV, so don’t hesitate to discover, experiment, and try out new things.
Today’s adventure proves that just because something is unconventional, it doesn’t mean it won’t work. Who would have thought that Heat Transfer Vinyl and metal are capable of delivering a handful of stunning creations? With HTV, potentials and paths are extremely great in number. All you need to do is believe and keep your mind open to possibilities.