Do you have to heat press screen printed shirts?

The short answer is **yes**! Heat setting is an essential step in the screen printing process and will ensure that your design stands the test of time and washing.

What is Heat Setting?

Heat setting is the process of using heat to cure the ink on a screen printed garment. This process helps the ink bond to the fabric and prevents it from fading or cracking when washed. Heat setting also helps to ensure that the ink will last for many years to come.

Why is Heat Setting Important?

Heat setting is important for a few reasons. First, it helps to ensure that your design will last for many years to come. Without heat setting, the ink may fade or crack when washed. This can be a major disappointment for customers who have invested in a custom printed garment.

Second, heat setting helps to ensure that the ink will adhere to the fabric. Without heat setting, the ink may not bond properly to the fabric and could peel off over time.

Finally, heat setting helps to create a professional finish. Without heat setting, the ink may look dull or patchy. Heat setting helps to create a vibrant, professional finish that will make your designs stand out.

How Do You Heat Set a Screen Printed Shirt?

Heat setting a screen printed shirt is a relatively simple process. First, you will need to preheat your heat press to the recommended temperature for the type of ink you are using. Most plastisol inks should be heated to 350°F (177°C).

Once the heat press is preheated, you can place the shirt onto the press and press it for the recommended time. Most plastisol inks should be pressed for 10-15 seconds.

Once the shirt has been pressed, you can remove it from the heat press and allow it to cool. Once the shirt has cooled, it is ready to be worn or washed.

Conclusion

Heat setting is an essential step in the screen printing process and will ensure that your design stands the test of time and washing. Heat setting helps to ensure that the ink will adhere to the fabric, will not fade or crack when washed, and will create a professional finish. Heat setting is a relatively simple process and can be done with a heat press. So, if you want your screen printed designs to last for many years to come, make sure to heat set them!