Let's talk about transfer tape. From clear vs. paper, sheets vs. rolls, and all the details in between, there are tons of choices when it comes to vinyl transfer tapes! No worries though, read on and we will help you narrow it down to exactly what you’ll need for your perfect project.

Transfer Tape: What Sizes are Available and What Should I Pick?

Expressions Vinyl offers two main types of transfer tape. We have clear and we also have paper. The clear is a plasticy film, and the paper is more like, well, a paper with a sticky back. Both types come in rolls and sheets. There are 2 different roll sizes to chose from: 6"x100ft and 12"x100ft.

So, choosing the right roll size will depend on the size of your projects. If you do bigger ones, I would definitely suggest the 12 inch width. If you're doing a ton of them, I would suggest the hundred yard, it's just economically better for you. However, if you do a lot of smaller projects the six inch roll is great. It's easier to work with and easier to handle, especially when you have a big new roll. Plus, you will most likely have a lot less waste.

The sheets come in 2 different sizes, 12"x12" and 12"x24", each with a paper backing. If you're just trying it out and you want to decide which one you like, I would definitely go with the sheets just to play with it and try it. Because the sheets have a paper backing (see image below), some people prefer to use the sheets as they find them easier to cut down to size and reuse.

Clear vs. Paper Transfer Tape: Which One is Better?

Choosing between clear or paper transfer tape can be a little confusing. Both tapes that Expressions Vinyl offers are medium-tack and work perfect with all of adhesive vinyl. However, here are some simple tips that can help you decide:

• Are you going to be selling your decals? If yes, many people like to use the clear transfer tape so that their customers can better see what they are purchasing.
• Are you going to be doing a wet application? If yes, you will HAVE to use paper transfer tape. Due to the clear being made from plastic, the water can't evaporate. The paper transfer tape breathes and will let the moisture out.
• Is your decal small or will it require precise positioning? If yes, many people prefer the clear as it allows them to better position their vinyl. With that being said, the paper transfer tape is still very opaque and will work.

The image below shows transfer tape applied on top of our Expressions Vinyl Series 31 Removable Vinyl in Bright Berry. The decal on the left has had clear transfer tape applied while the decal on the right has paper transfer tape.

Can Transfer Tape Be Reused?

YES! You can absolutely reuse your transfer tape. You can reuse it until it loses its stickiness. So, if you've got projects you're doing at home and you just wanna peel it off once you get it on your wall, and keep that little piece. If you used a sheet, you can just put it back on the backing it came on. You can probably use it two or three times and then you're going to need to throw it away.

How To Apply Transfer Tape

The transfer tape sheets, as I mentioned earlier, have a backing on them that you need to peel off before you put it on your project. You simply need to cut out the size you need and then put it over top of your project.

If you're using a roll, just peel it off and lay it over your project and then rub it down with my fingers and cut it off with a knife. And then you'll take your app tool, and just make sure you have it rubbed down really well. Then you can trim off the edges with your knife or with a pair of scissors.

Clear Transfer Tape:

Paper Transfer Tape:

I hope this helps make the decision a little easier the next time you're in the market for some transfer tape. As you can see, application is quite simple and exactly the same with each type. Both have great visibility of the vinyl, with the clear providing the most clarity.

 And make sure to watch the full video of these tips.

If you have any questions or comments, please let me know in the comments below!