Written By: Zach Dewhurst
(May 2, 2025)
Read Time: 7 Minutes
Low temperature screen print transfers are a versatile and innovative option in the custom printing business. These transfers are designed to adhere to fabrics at lower temperatures than standard techniques, making them appropriate for delicate materials and heat-sensitive fabrics. In this post, we'll look at how low temperature screen print transfers are made, what materials are used, how the process works, and the advantages they offer.
Low temperature screen print transfers necessitate a number of specific processes in order to achieve high-quality, long-lasting results. The process starts with design preparation, which entails developing artwork with graphic design tools to meet the specifications for screen printing. If the design has many colors, each color is separated into discrete layers, as required by the screen printing technique.
A light-sensitive emulsion is applied to a mesh screen to prepare it for use. When exposed to light, this emulsion hardens to produce a design stencil. The split artwork layers are printed on transparent films, placed on screens, and treated to UV light, which hardens the emulsion around the pattern while allowing ink to pass through.
The transfer is printed using inks specifically intended for low-temperature applications. These inks are applied to the screen via the stencil and onto a release paper or transfer film. For multi-colored patterns, this method is repeated for each layer to guarantee precise alignment and a clean final image. The printed transfer is then dried using a conveyor dryer to dry the ink and prepare it for application.
The final step is to apply a powder adhesive on the back of the transfer. This adhesive is designed to activate at lower temperatures, ensuring that the transfer adheres firmly to the fabric without using excessive heat. The completed transfer sheets are cut into distinct designs and are ready to use.
The materials used to create low temperature screen print transfers determine their quality and effectiveness. Specialized low-temperature inks are engineered to cure and adhere at lower temperatures, resulting in better adhesion and durability. The release paper or transfer film must withstand printing and curing while allowing the design to transfer cleanly onto the cloth during application. A low-temperature powder adhesive is needed to ensure that the transfer adheres adequately to the fabric when heat is applied. Mesh screens, usually made of polyester, come in a variety of mesh counts, which affect the detail and thickness of the printed design.
When applying a low temperature screen print transfer to a garment, use a heat press and exercise caution with temperature and pressure management. The garment is placed on the heat press, transfer side down on the fabric. The heat press employs a combination of heat and pressure, often at 275°F (135°C), for 8-10 seconds. This activates the adhesive, which adheres the pattern to the fabric without causing damage from high temperatures. After pressing, the transfer backing is peeled away to show the design, which is permanently bonded to the garment.
Low-temperature screen print transfers offer numerous distinct advantages:
Fabric Compatibility: These transfers are perfect for heat-sensitive textiles including polyester, nylon, and performance fabrics that can be damaged by high temperatures. Reduced risk of scorching: Lowering the application temperature decreases the possibility of scorching or burning the fabric, resulting in a clean, professional finish.
Low temperature transfers are versatile because they can be used on a wide range of materials, making them ideal for a variety of applications such as activewear, uniforms, and promotional products
Durability: When properly applied, low temperature transfers are strong and may withstand repeated washing and use without fading or flaking. Shorter application durations and lower temperatures can increase industrial efficiency, saving both time and energy.
Low temperature screen print transfers are a good choice for custom printing on delicate and heat-sensitive surfaces. The complete technique, from design preparation to final application, ensures high-quality products that are both visually appealing and durable. Low temperature screen print transfers are a versatile and dependable alternative for bespoke designs, whether used in fashion, promotional products, or niche applications. At Printphase, we are committed to producing high-quality low temperature screen print transfers that meet your individual needs.
