How to Get Iron Ons to Stay on Sweatshirts

Iron Ons are an easy way to spice up your wardrobe or personalize your clothing. But often, after a few washes, the iron on design starts to peel or flake off. This can be frustrating and lead to disappointment with your favorite shirt. But fret not, there are ways to ensure that your iron on stays on. Here are our five top tips for getting iron ons to stay on sweatshirts.

1. Choose the Right Fabric

The first thing to keep in mind is the type of fabric your sweatshirt is made of. Not all fabrics are suited for iron on transfers. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester or nylon may not adhere well to the iron on. Therefore, it's best to choose sweatshirts made of 100% cotton or a cotton blend. These fabrics allow the iron-on transfer to stick better and not peel off so quickly.

2. Prep Your Sweatshirt

Before you start ironing on your design, it's important to prepare your sweatshirt properly. First, make sure it's washed and dried without any fabric softeners or dryer sheets. These can affect the adhesion of the iron-on. Also, ensure that the fabric is completely flat and free of wrinkles. Use an iron on a low heat setting to smooth out any creases.

3. Use the Right Tools

When it comes to ironing on transfers, the tool you use can make a big difference. Make sure you have a good quality iron that's not too hot. A high heat can cause the transfer to melt or burn, whereas a low setting may not allow the transfer to stick well. Also, use a pressing cloth, such as a clean cotton cloth, between the iron and the transfer. This will prevent the design from being scorched by the heat of the iron.

4. Iron On Properly

Once you have the right fabric, have prepped your sweatshirt and have the right tools, it's time to iron on the transfer. Place the transfer face down on the sweatshirt, making sure it's centered and level. Apply gentle, yet firm pressure with the iron, using a back-and-forth motion for about 20-30 seconds. Don't move the iron around too much. This can cause the transfer to shift, resulting in a skewed or smudged design. After ironing, allow the transfer to cool down before peeling off the backing.

5. Caring for Your Sweatshirt

The final step in ensuring that your iron on stays on is proper care. Always wash your sweatshirt inside out with cold water. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, which can affect the transfer. Air dry your sweatshirt instead of putting it in the dryer. The heat of the dryer can cause the transfer to crack or peel.

In conclusion, iron on transfers can be a fun and creative way to personalize your sweatshirts. By following these steps, you can ensure that your designs stick around for a long time. Choose the right fabric, prep your sweatshirt, use the right tools, iron on properly and care for your sweatshirt properly. With these tips, you'll have a sweatshirt that looks great and stays looking great, with minimal effort.