The Different Types of Heat Transfer Vinyl

One of the advantages of Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) is its ability to fit so many materials and styles. This gives a bevy of options to everyone interested in HTV—from the t-shirt hobbyist to the t-shirt retailer. If you want to learn more about the different types of Heat Transfer Vinyl, read our guide to the different peels and materials.

Cold Peel Vs. Hot Peel

One differentiator between HTV types is how you peel the vinyl once it adheres to a base material.

Cold Peel

For cold peel vinyl, you need to wait until your t-shirt or whatever else you apply vinyl to completely cools off before peeling. Remove the vinyl liner too early and you risk it not fully adhering and otherwise marring your design.

Hot Peel

On the other hand, you can safely remove hot peel vinyl very soon after application. This allows you to increase your production rate and simplify liner removal without compromising your product’s quality

Vinyl Material

There are also many distinctive types of Heat Transfer Vinyl material for different projects.

Universal

Universal vinyl is a flexible option that works with many fabrics. It’s conducive for use with cotton, polyester, spandex, and more fabrics. This material also doesn’t require high temperatures to adhere effectively.

Holographic & Metallic

Holographic and metallic HTV are specialized options that add flair to a project. Holographic HTV allows for a multi-colored sheen that changes as light plays off it. Similarly, Metallic Heat Press Vinyl reflects light, but off its more monochromatic material.

Glitter & Flock

Unlike holographic and metallic HTV, which is smooth to the touch, glitter and flock HTV often have unique textures. Glitter vinyl is a fitting way to add sparkle to clothes. Flock vinyl, which is fuzzy and can look like suede, affords a softer vinyl to shirts.

Stretchable

Stretchy vinyl is a thinner vinyl that works best for athletic clothing and fabrics that have some give, such as spandex. Stretchable vinyl doesn’t crack and deform with use like other vinyl types may when under duress.