The sign-making industry has evolved over the years, as have the materials used to make durable and vibrant designs. New materials have emerged which offer better designs and prints. One such material is printable heat-transfer vinyl (HTV).
A vast range of materials, including textiles, leather, and others, can be decorated with elaborate designs and patterns by using printable HTV. However, with so many variations available, it can be challenging to choose the printed HTV that best suits your needs. In this post, we shall examine the best printable vinyl choices, including Avery printable vinyl, that are best for the sign-making sector.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl
There are different factors you must consider when choosing the best printable heat transfer vinyl for your signage to ensure a top-notch and long-lasting result. They include:
Durability
Some of these vinyl prints might appear spectacular after you make them. However, they fade easily after one or two washes. The best printable heat transfer vinyl print should last years before they start to fade.
Color Options
Printable heat-transfer vinyl is available in different colors. While some brands are available in twelve colors, others are available in twenty. The vibrancy of the colors is also another option to consider.
Adhesive Quality
This factor is similar to durability. However, it has to do with how long the material can last after several washes. Choose printable heat-transfer vinyl that is strong and can remain attached to the fabric for a long time.
Best Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl
There are a few brands that stand out both in terms of compatibility and quality when it comes to choosing the best printable vinyl. The top printable heat transfer vinyl brands you can get on the market are listed below:
Siser Easyweed
Siser Easyweed is a popular option for individuals seeking a flexible vinyl that functions well with many printing software, including the GoProduce of Summa Equipment. It has a huge selection of colors and finishes, is durable, and stretchy. It is very simple to weed and trim, which makes it perfect for complex designs.
Stahls' CAD-CUT
Stahls' CAD-CUT is renowned for its exceptional durability and color vibrancy. Interestingly, it is available in unique arrays of colors and materials, including glitter and metallic. It is also easy to weed and cut, making it ideal for intricate designs.
Frame Crafts Heat-Transfer Vinyl
This heat transfer vinyl stands out due to its durability and color variety. It has twelve different colors and a wide range of designs that sign-makers can explore. This vinyl can go through hundreds or thousands of washes before fading. Also, the brand's vinyl is thin, making it easier for you to cut and press your designs compared to thicker vinyl materials.
Forever Flex-Soft
Forever Flex-Soft, a novel printable heat transfer vinyl, is also compatible with Summa Equipment. The heat transfer vinyl has great tensile strength, outstanding color vibrancy, and needs a special adhesive paper.
It is simple to cut and weed, and is perfect for designs that call for a gentle texture. Another time-tested product is the Oracal printable vinyl, renowned for producing outstanding results.
Maintenance and Care of Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl and the End Product
For the end product to last and increase durability, you have to maintain and properly handle the printable heat-transfer vinyl and also the product. Below are some tips on how on to maintain and care for printable heat transfer vinyl:
Washing of Garments
Clothing with heat transfer vinyl must be washed carefully. Also, ensure you wash such garments only in cold water. Note that breach or fabric softeners can damage vinyl. Avoid using them on their garments. Turning clothes inside out before washing is also advised to ensure the vinyl does not rub against other clothing.
Drying
Heat transfer vinyl garments should be air-dried or dried on a low heat setting to stop the vinyl from peeling or melting. Also, avoid using a higher heat setting or drying clothes for an extended amount of time, because this causes the vinyl to peel or crack.
Storage
Avoid folding or wrinkling garments made from heat-transfer vinyl while storing them. Doing so increases the likelihood that they may split or peel. Instead, clothing should be hung up or laid flat and kept in a cool, dry location.
Maintenance of the Heat-Transfer Vinyl Cutter and Printer
This is crucial for optimal performance. The cutter blade should be cleaned frequently and changed when it becomes worn. Additionally, sign-makers should clean the printer's printhead regularly to ensure that the ink flows smoothly.
Closing Thoughts
Sign-makers need to select the right printable heat-transfer vinyl to ensure they produce high-quality designs that last. Meanwhile, sign-makers should consider factors like color and durability when choosing a printable heat-transfer vinyl. Brands like Stahls' CAD-CUT and Siser Easyweed are among the best options that are compatible with Summa Equipment, while offering excellent quality.