Heat transfer vinyl (HTV) designed for use with cutting plotters and heat presses enables the creation of custom designs on apparel. This specialized material is available in a range of finishes, including matte, glossy, glitter, flock, and holographic, offering diverse aesthetic options. A design is cut from the vinyl sheet using a computer-controlled plotter, weeded to remove excess material, and then transferred to the garment using heat and pressure.
This method facilitates the production of durable, high-quality designs on various fabrics, allowing for intricate details and vibrant colors. Its adaptability to short runs and personalized items makes it a popular choice for small businesses, hobbyists, and on-demand apparel production. The evolution of this technology has significantly broadened the possibilities of garment decoration, moving beyond traditional screen printing to offer greater design flexibility and cost-effectiveness for smaller-scale projects.