The seal conditions supplied with our transfers are overall guidelines. Experience has shown that a more detailed explanation is called for on some subjects.
A summary of the most frequently asked questions is given below:
Heat Transfer Discoloration (bleeding)
If the material colour bleeds through the transfer, it is commonly assumed that the transfer has been printed too thin. In actual fact, the pigments in some textiles can chemically react with the transfer, which causes the phenomenon called bleeding. This problem can usually be solved by lowering the sealing temperature. Please note that the PI Standard transfer CANNOT be printed below 180 degrees. Sometimes transfer show discoloration only after washing, in which case the pigment precipitates on the transfer from the washing water. This can be prevented by washing the garment prior to sealing the transfer. The discoloration will be reduced after washing the garment a few times.
Uneven pressure during sealing
A common reason for unsatisfactory adhesion of a seal transfers is the pressure. A transfer should not be printed too close to zips, buttons, press fastenings, or hems and seams. In such cases there would be an uneven distribution of pressure, resulting in a poor adhesion of the transfer. Try to keep the above mentioned obstacles away from the rubber bottom plate if possible. If this is not possible, you can raise the sealing surface with a separate piece of rubber. Take similar care with inside pockets that may be closed using buttons, zips or Velcro. These pockets are often situated under the left breast pocket, which is the most common location for the transfer.
If possible, always unzip the lining from the garment!!
The pressure plate leaves an outline/ shape on the textile
After sealing, some garments show an unsightly shape of the pressure plate around the transfer. This usually happens with polyester-cottons, sweatshirts, T shirts and polo shirts. The polyester in the material is responsible for this glossy occurrence. Depending on the colour, this effect will reduce after washing the garment a few times, but will not disappear completely. If your customer finds this unacceptable, you might consider reducing the size of the rubber bottom plate to acceptable proportions. The above effect is less visible with light-coloured materials. In the case of 100% cotton, any effect will disappear after washing the garment a few times. It goes without saying that several material compositions may be susceptible to a residual effect of this kind.
Which substances are difficult or impossible to heat-seal
Materials that are difficult or even impossible to heat seal are in general those with a low melting point, such as PVC and Dralon, and wool. Knitted and fleece material will be flattened to an extent that most customers would find unacceptable.
Waterproof and wind-resistant materials
In most cases these materials will give no problems, but the great diversity of coated products means that it is advisable to first carry out a sealing test. We will, of course, provide you with any advice you may require on this subject.
