Many people use crafting as a form of self-expression. This is because you are able to have full creative control in order to complete a project in a way that truly is able to express you and the way that you are feeling. One of the most common ways that people craft is through using vinyl in order to create their projects. If you enjoy using vinyl for your crafts and are looking for a unique vinyl to use to help our project stand out, then StripFlock HTV may be the option for you! At Expressions Vinyl, we believe that you should have the perfect vinyl so that your craft turns out just as you imagined. We have many different sizes and colors of the StripFlock vinyl so that you can get just the right color for your project.
What is StripFlock HTV?
StripFlock heat transfer vinyl, or HTV, is a type of vinyl that uses heat to be applied to the fabric. StripFlock gives a raised, textured, suede-like feel. It will be sure to give your craft a unique look as it does not look like other types of vinyl. In order to apply the vinyl, you will need a heat source, whether that is a heat press, or even an iron to use in order to get the vinyl to adhere to the material.
What Can You Use StripFlock HTV For?
There are many different ways in which you can use the StripFlock HTV. There are any different projects that you can create including:
T-Shirts
Sweatshirts
Towels
Tote Bags
Jerseys
And so many more!
There are so many options of things that you can use with the StripFlock HTV. The types of material that the StripFlock HTV adheres well to include:
Cotton
Polyester
Poly-Cotton Blend
As long as you are using these types of fabrics, the options are limitless on the projects that you can create!
Application Process of the StripFlock HTV
Sometimes people may feel intimidated with the process of applying vinyl. It is not a difficult process, however it is one that it is essential that each step of the application process is followed exactly, so as to make sure that the vinyl adheres correctly, and that it will last a long time. The steps of the whole process include:
Choosing the Design
The first step in the whole application process is choosing out the design that you would like to use. This is the step where you can use all of your creativity. You will be able to pick out the design that will help your project to turn out exactly how you want it to.
Cutting Out the Vinyl
After you have chosen the design that you would like to use, then it is time to cut out the design. When cutting out the design it is important to make sure that you have a cutting machine, as that is an essential tool to have when completing these crafts. You will want to be sure that the correct side of the vinyl is lying face down on the mat. It is also important to make sure that the design is mirrored or reversed, so that when you place it on the material, that it will turn out the way that you would like it to.
Preheat the Material
Preheating the material that you will be applying the vinyl to is an essential part of the process. This step can either be done with a heat press, or you can use an iron. This step is important because it preps the material to have the vinyl applied. It also presses out any wrinkles or excess moisture that may be in the fabric.
Place the Design and Apply Heat
Once the material is prepped and is preheated, now it is time to place the design and to add the heat in order to start the application process. It is so important to make sure that you read the instructions that come with the vinyl to make sure that you have the right temperature set. Typically, StripFlock HTV will use a heat of 311 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it is important to follow the instructions exactly. Once the heat is applied, you will want to keep the heat on the vinyl for the exact amount of time that is specified. This will ensure that the vinyl will adhere correctly, and that there will not be any burns in either the vinyl or the material. You will also want to pay attention so as to make sure that you are applying the correct pressure to the vinyl. Have the pressure that is put on your design applied to the ends of the vinyl as this will help to prevent peeling in the future.
Once you have applied the heat for the correct amount of time, be sure to remove it immediately. This will ensure that the vinyl is adhered correctly, and that it will prevent both the fabric and the vinyl from burning.
Peeling Off the Cover Sheet
The final step of this process is to peel off the cover sheet from the vinyl. For the StripFlock, it is common that you will peel the cover sheet off after it has completely cooled. However, once again, it is so important to make sure to read the instructions and to make sure that they are followed exactly. Following all of these steps will help your vinyl design adhere correctly to the material.
Why Choose Expressions Vinyl?
Choosing the vinyl for your project can be a difficult and tedious task. However, it does not have to be. At Expressions Vinyl, we have a large selection of colors, patterns, and different types of vinyl that will give you lots of options for your creative projects. We want to make sure that you get high quality vinyl for your projects. We will help you to get your vinyl in a timely manner, so that you can start your project as soon as you would like to. No matter if you are a professional crafter, or just a beginner, Expressions Vinyl will have vinyl to help you in hour projects. Shop now to start your crafting experience today!
