Application Tape

Essential for securing printed visuals without adhesive backing, our tapes are compatible with most printable heat transfer vinyl (HTV) on the market. Easy to use, they are suitable for both customization enthusiasts and professional garment decorators.

Discover our range of application tapes adapted to all levels of tack (adhesion), available in various sizes to meet every need. A must-have accessory for a controlled heat application, clean placement, and professional finish.

What is the best tape for heat transfer vinyl?

The choice of the best application tape for printable heat transfer vinyl mainly depends on the type of visual to transfer, the desired tack level, and the nature of the printable vinyl used.

A good tape should reliably transfer the printed design without damage or residue, while ensuring accurate positioning on fabric. It must also withstand the heat from the press or iron without deforming.

Here are the main criteria to consider:

• Tack level (adhesion):

  • Low tack: ideal for thin designs, fine details, or small formats (e.g., Chemica ATT 490).

  • Medium tack: perfect for most standard printable vinyl, good balance between adhesion and release (e.g., TTD Easy, ATT 495).

  • High tack: recommended for complex visuals, large formats, or difficult-to-handle special effect vinyls (e.g., Chemica ATT 450, TTD Strong).

• Compatibility with the vinyl type: not all tapes are suitable for all vinyls. Some are made specifically for DTF or eco-solvent inks, while others are more versatile.

• Heat resistance: a good tape must withstand temperatures of 150–180°C without shrinking or melting.

• Ease of handling: transparency for better alignment, suitable stiffness for easy application.

In summary, the best tape is the one that matches your intended use, your printable vinyl, and the complexity of your textile project. For general use, medium tack tapes like TTD Easy offer an excellent compromise.

What size is an application tape roll?

Application tape rolls for printable heat transfer vinyl come in a wide variety of sizes to suit all kinds of projects, from DIY to professional production.

How to use application tape for printable vinyl?

Application tape is an essential accessory for successfully applying your printed designs using printable heat transfer vinyl. It allows you to transfer the cut design from its backing to the fabric, while preserving its shape, alignment, and details.

Here are the key steps for optimal use:

1. Print and cut your design

Prepare your design in a vector format (PNG, SVG, PDF, etc.) using your graphic design software.
Then print it onto your printable heat transfer vinyl using a compatible printer.

Next, cut the design with your cutting machine (Cricut, Silhouette, Roland, etc.), making sure to adjust the blade properly.

2. Weed the design

Carefully remove the excess vinyl (backgrounds, white spaces, edges) using a weeding tool. Only the design to be transferred should remain.

3. Apply the application tape

• Unroll a strip of application tape sized to your design.

• Stick the tape directly onto the weeded design, adhesive side facing the ink.

• Use a squeegee or scraper to press firmly, ensuring the design sticks well to the tape.

4. Heat transfer onto fabric

• Remove the vinyl backing — the design should remain attached to the tape.

• Position the design on the fabric.

• Heat press using a manual press or a logo press, following the temperature, pressure, and time settings specific to the vinyl type used.

• Let cool according to the method (hot or cold peel).

5. Remove the tape

Once the transfer is complete, carefully remove the application tape. Your design is now securely fixed onto the fabric.