How to Heat Press Rhinestone Transfers… the right way.

Perfect Hotfix Rhinestone Transfers for T-Shirts

This method will save you time, reduce garment waste, and minimize mistakes. Best of all, it’s simple!

Step 1

Set your heat press to 330-340 degrees (fig. 1). Don’t start at 300 or 400 degrees. Would you bake cookies at 400 if the recipe says 350? Your Gramma wouldn’t be happy!

Fig. 1 Set Heat Press to 330-340 Degrees

Step 2

Complete a short preheat/prepress before placing the rhinestone transfer (Fig. 2 & 3). This removes excess moisture and provides a smooth, wrinkle-free canvas.

Fig. 2 Place your t-shirt flat on the heat press

Fig. 3 Give the shirt a good press to iron it out

Step 3

Set your transfer (Fig. 4). Ensure correct placement to avoid common mistakes like upside-down or crooked designs. Double-check before proceeding.

Fig. 4 Make sure your design is centered well

Step 4

For thinner materials (e.g., women’s fashion shirts, undergarments, baby clothes), place parchment paper or Teflon between the garment layers (Fig. 5). This prevents glue from sticking the front to the back.

Fig. 5 Use Parchment, Release Paper, or a Teflon sheet between your layers

Step 5

Heat the rhinestones for 10-15 seconds with 40-50psi pressure (medium setting on a heat press) (Fig. 6).

Tip: Use a Teflon sheet and a Nomex Heat Pad for even pressure and temperature. Compensate for uneven surfaces with a Nomex Pad on the bottom and a Teflon Sheet on top.

Fig. 6 A good heat press helps deliver even temp and pressure

Step 6

Flip the garment over (Fig. 7) and press for another 10 seconds to ensure a strong bond.