TPU Heat Transfer Vinyl (TPU HTV) is a premium heat transfer material made from thermoplastic polyurethane, designed for decorating garments with high flexibility, durability, and a soft hand feel. It is applied to fabrics using heat and pressure, where its heat-activated adhesive bonds firmly to materials such as cotton, polyester, and blends. Compared with traditional PVC or standard PU vinyl, TPU HTV offers superior elasticity, excellent wash resistance, and better environmental performance, making it ideal for sportswear, activewear, fashion apparel, and workwear that require long-lasting, stretchable, and comfortable designs.
It is widely used for customized logos, designs, letters and numbers on t-shirt, hoodies, uniforms, sportswear, hats, bags, shoes, homewares and gift promotional items and more.
Product advantages:
1. TPU film is a non-toxic, eco-friendly , degradable material. which is much safe and eco-friendly than other plastic material.2. Anti-yellowing, weatherproof anti-aging, oil-resistant, acid-proof warping-resistant;
3. Anti-fungus, anti-biosis, anti-static, recyclable and degradable;
4. Good hydrolysis resistance and weather fastness;
5. No affected by oil, chlorine, sweat, cosmetic and seawater;
6. Smooth surface is advantageous to screen printing；
7. No losing elasticity -50℃ environment.
Specification
| Material | TPU |
| Colors | 30+Colors (White, Black, Red, Blue, Yellow, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple, Grey, Brown,Neon Green, Neon Yellow, Neon Pink, Sky Blue, Mint Green, Lavender, Wine Red, Coral Orange,Gold, Silver, Rose Gold, Bronze, Metallic Blue,Neon Yellow, Neon Green, Neon Orange, Neon Pink) (customizable) |
| Surface Effects | Gloss, Matte, Metallic, Holographic, Glitter, Glow-in-the-Dark, Reflective, Thermochromic, UV Color Change, 3D Puff |
| Fabric Compatibility | Lycra and Spandex, 100% Polyester, 100% Cotton, 50/50 Cotton-Polyester blends |
| Thickness | 0.1mm |
| Product Size | 50cm × 25m/roll (customizable) |
| Temperature | 150-160°C/302-320°F |
| Pressure | 4–5kg, medium pressure |
| Pressing Time | 10-15 seconds |
| Peeling Method | cool peel |
| Washing Test | 60+ machine washes guaranteed |
| Available Formats | Rolls and sheets |
| MOQ | 1 roll |
| Sample | Free samples |
| Lead Time | Sample: 1–3 days; Bulk: 7–15 working days |
How to Use TPU Heat Transfer Vinyl
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) heat transfer vinyl is a highly durable, flexible, and stretchy material ideal for sportswear, elastic fabrics, and intricate designs. To apply it, cut your design in reverse, weed away the excess, and press it onto your garment at 320°F (160°C) using heavy pressure for 12–15 seconds.
Step 1: Prepare and Cut Your Design
- Design Creation: Import or create your design using cutting software (e.g., Cricut Design Space, Silhouette Studio).
- Mirror Image: Always mirror your image before cutting, as you will be cutting the design from the back side.
- Load the Vinyl: Place the TPU HTV onto your cutting mat with the shiny/glossy carrier sheet facing down.
- Cut Settings: Set your cutting machine to the appropriate material setting for TPU or standard heat transfer vinyl. If using a Cricut, “Iron-On” or “Vinyl” usually works, but always do a test cut first.
Step 2: Weed the Design
- Weeding: Use a weeding hook to carefully remove excess vinyl around your design.
- Details: Remove all inner pieces of letters or shapes.
Step 3: Prepare the Garment
- Pre-Press: Press the fabric for 2–3 seconds to remove wrinkles and moisture.
- Lint Roll: Remove dust and fibers using a lint roller.
Step 4: Heat Press the Vinyl
- Positioning: Place the weeded design face-down on the garment (carrier sheet facing up).
- Temperature and Time: Set heat press to 320°F (160°C).
- Pressure: Apply heavy pressure (about 4.5kg+) for 12–15 seconds.
- Peel: Allow 30–60 seconds to cool, then peel carefully. Repress if needed.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Post-Press: Cover with a Teflon sheet and press again for 5 seconds to improve adhesion.
- Washing: Wait 24 hours before washing. Turn inside out, wash cold, and tumble dry low or hang dry.
