What are Press Pillows and PTFE Sheets and When Should They be Used?

When working with heat transfer vinyl (HTV), achieving a flawless finish on your custom apparel and fabric projects is crucial. Two tools that can significantly enhance your results are heat press pillows and PTFE sheets. While they might seem like small accessories, they play a vital role in ensuring even pressure and preventing damage during the heat pressing process. In this blog, we'll explore when and how to use heat press pillows and PTFE sheets to get the best results from your heat press projects.

What are Heat Press Pillows?

Heat press pillows are soft, foam-like cushions covered with a non-stick, heat-resistant material. They come in various sizes and thicknesses to accommodate different projects. These pillows are designed to provide even pressure distribution during the heat pressing process, especially on garments with uneven surfaces.

Benefits of Using Heat Press Pillows

• Even Pressure: Helps distribute pressure evenly, ensuring consistent adhesion of HTV.
• Prevents Marks: Avoids press marks on seams, buttons, zippers, and other raised areas.
• Enhanced Quality: Improves the overall quality and appearance of your designs.

When to Use Heat Press Pillows

1. Garments with Seams or Buttons: Use a heat press pillow when working with garments that have seams, buttons, or zippers. Placing the pillow underneath the garment raises the print area above these obstructions, ensuring even pressure and preventing press marks.
2. Layered Designs: If you're working with layered HTV designs, a heat press pillow can help maintain even pressure across the entire design, preventing any layers from shifting or not adhering properly.
3. Thicker Fabrics: For thicker fabrics like hoodies or jackets, a heat press pillow helps to ensure that the heat and pressure are evenly distributed, resulting in a better transfer.

How to Use Heat Press Pillows

1. Placement: Position the heat press pillow underneath the area where you will apply the HTV. Ensure that the pillow is centered and covers the entire design area.
2. Adjust Settings: Adjust the pressure settings on your heat press to account for the added thickness of the pillow. You may need to increase the pressure slightly to ensure proper adhesion.
3. Pressing: Proceed with the heat pressing process as usual, ensuring that the entire design area receives even pressure and heat.

What are PTFE Sheets?

PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) sheets, are non-stick, heat-resistant sheets used during the heat pressing process. They act as a protective barrier between the heat press and the HTV, preventing sticking and ensuring a smooth finish.

Benefits of Using PTFE Sheets

• Non-Stick Surface: Prevents HTV from sticking to the heat press platen.
• Protective Layer: Protects both the garment and the heat press from residue and ink transfer.
• Reusable: Durable and can be reused multiple times, making them a cost-effective investment.

When to Use PTFE Sheets

1. Protecting the HTV: Use a PTFE sheet to protect the HTV from direct contact with the heat press platen. This prevents the vinyl from sticking or melting onto the press.
2. Preventing Scorching: PTFE sheets provide an additional layer of protection, reducing the risk of scorching delicate fabrics during the heat pressing process.
3. Sublimation Printing: When working with sublimation printing, PTFE sheets help prevent ink transfer and ghosting by keeping the transfer paper in place.

How to Use PTFE Sheets

1. Placement: Place the PTFE sheet directly over the HTV design on your garment. Ensure that the entire design area is covered by the sheet.
2. Pressing: Proceed with the heat pressing process as usual. The PTFE sheet will act as a protective barrier, ensuring a smooth and even application.
3. Cleaning: After use, clean the PTFE sheet with a damp cloth to remove any residue. Store it flat or rolled to avoid creases.

Using heat press pillows and PTFE sheets can significantly improve the quality and consistency of your HTV projects. By understanding when and how to use these tools, you can achieve professional results with minimal effort. Atlanta Vinyl offers a pack of heat press pillows and PTFE sheets to meet your needs. Visit our website to explore our selection and take your heat pressing projects to the next level.