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How to Use T-Shirt Iron-Ons for Image Transfer

Putting your own image on a T-shirt is a great way to make your group stand out, whether you're celebrating a special occasion, taking part in an activity such as a charity walk, or need to keep everyone together on a field trip. The problem is that silk-screening shops often have a minimum order, and even if they don't, their services can be expensive. If you've got a small group, it might not be worth the expense to get your shirts done professionally. Not to worry. You can use iron-ons to put your picture on T-shirts.

Things You'll Need

Image manipulation software
Printer capable of photo printing
Printable iron-on image transfer sheets
Iron
Ironing board
Wooden cutting board or smooth plank
Light colored T-shirts

Instructions

- 1
  Design your image in an image processing software package that lets you control the resolution of the image. If you're working with a photograph, you'll need to save the image at at least 240 dpi resolution to avoid image degradation, but 300 is better.
- 2
  Print the image using your printer's photo printing capabilities. Your iron-on transfer's packaging should specify the exact settings that you need to use. If not, set your printer for matte finish photo paper at best quality.
- 3
  Allow the ink on the iron-on transfer to dry before proceeding. Photo printer settings use more ink than document printing, so this may take a few minutes. While the ink dries, turn your iron on to the setting specified by your iron-on transfers, or medium-high heat with no steam.
- 4
  Place the wooden cutting board or plank on your ironing board and place one of your T-shirts on it. Using a piece of wood, a trick recommended by a major printer manufacturer, allows you to press hard on the iron, which helps transfer the image cleanly.
- 5
  Iron your image onto the T-shirt following the iron-on manufacturer's instructions. Be careful to keep your hands away from the edges of the iron so that you don't burn yourself. Print another transfer and repeat this step with another shirt, and keep working until you have all the shirts you need.

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