Impressions - March 2025 - 42

t hink .
mak e .
d o.
process & techniques
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From Scorch
to Success
Top tips for printing heat-sensitive fabrics
BY DALANEY BRADLEY, CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Every custom decorator has been there-you open the heat
press and discover a press mark, discoloration or even a ruined
garment. This can be especially frustrating when working with
today's performance wear and premium synthetic fabrics, which
are popular for their lightweight feel and modern appeal but are
also more sensitive to heat. Whether it's a high-end performance
fabric turning yellow or a scorch box on a premium tee, these
mishaps can feel like setbacks.
But don't worry-scorching doesn't have to be the end of
the story. Heat printing is one of the most versatile and efficient
decoration methods around, offering quick turnaround times,
customization and the ability to decorate nearly any fabric or
design location, including those other methods decorators struggle
with as well. With the right knowledge and techniques, you
can prevent heat-related damage and keep your garments (and
reputation) intact.
This guide will break down why scorching happens and proHeated
lower platens, like the one
shown above, can be invaluable
when pressing and applying
dimensional products, like
patches or emblems. Photo
courtesy of STAHLS'
Transfer Express
vide practical tips to help you achieve flawless, scorch-free heat
printing every time.
What is Scorching?
To address the issue, we first need to understand what scorching
is. Simply put, scorching occurs when garments-especially those
made with synthetic or plastic fibers, like polyester-are exposed
to excessive heat or pressure during the heat-printing process.
The result can range from a visible press box or shiny fabric to
discoloration or even a burnt garment.
At its core, scorching happens because the fibers in the fabric
begin to melt or degrade under high heat. The reaction can
differ depending on the garment material, making it essential to
recognize how different fabrics respond to higher temperatures.
Whether it's polyester, nylon or the newest trending synthetic
material, knowing how to prevent scorching allows businesses to
protect their bottom line while minimizing waste.
For decorators, scorching isn't just an annoyance, it can directly
affect profits. Sending out garments with press boxes,
burns or discoloration can lead to dissatisfied customers,
tarnished trust and even lost business.
Yet, the solution isn't as simple as just lowering the
temperature. Heat transfers require precise settings-time,
temperature and pressure-to adhere properly and ensure longevity
through wash and wear. Lowering the heat too much risks
producing garments that appear fine initially but crack, fade or peel
after repeated use, damaging your reputation as a reliable decorator.
Maintaining quality and customer satisfaction requires balancing
these factors while taking steps to prevent scorching before
it happens.
In addition, preventing scorching is not just about preserving the
quality of individual garments, it also plays a role in reducing
waste and promoting sustainability in the heat-printing
industry. In a world and in an industry that have
become increasingly aware of the environmental
impact of fast fashion, every wasted garment contributes
to the growing problem of textile waste in landfills.
By mastering techniques to avoid scorching, apparel-decorating
businesses can minimize the number of misprinted or damaged
items, extending the life of the apparel and reducing the need for
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ImpressionsMagazine.com March 2025
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Impressions - March 2025

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