Printing your own custom t-shirts is a fun and creative way to make something. One of the easiest methods to start with is iron-on transfer paper, which allows you to print a design at home without special equipment.

What You’ll Need

  • Plain 100% cotton t-shirts (cotton works best for smooth transfers)
  • Iron-on transfer paper (choose light or dark fabric type)
  • Inkjet or laser printer (depending on your transfer paper)
  • Iron or household heat press
  • Scissors
  • Flat, firm surface (not a padded ironing board)
  • Parchment paper or the protective sheet that comes with your transfer pack

Step-by-Step: How to Print Your Own T-Shirt

1. Choose or Create a Design

You can use free design tools or programs like Canva or Photoshop to create your t-shirt design.

  • Bright, bold colors transfer best.
  • Avoid tiny text or intricate patterns.
  • Mirror your image if the paper’s instructions require it.

Tip: Before printing on transfer paper, do a test print on normal paper to check layout and size.

2. Print the Design

Print on the correct side of the transfer paper — usually the blank one. Use your printer’s high-quality or photo setting. Let the ink dry for a few minutes before cutting.

3. Cut Out the Design

Trim carefully around your artwork. The closer you cut, the cleaner the result will look after pressing.

4. Prepare the T-Shirt

Lay your t-shirt flat on a sturdy, heat-resistant surface.

  • Preheat it for 5–10 seconds to remove moisture.
  • Place a piece of cardboard or parchment inside to avoid ink bleeding through.

Best fabrics: Cotton and cotton blends are ideal. Avoid textured or stretchy materials — they can cause uneven transfers or cracks.

5. Iron On the Design

Place your printed design on the shirt (face down for light fabrics, face up for dark ones).

  • Set your iron to high heat with no steam.
  • Press firmly for 60–90 seconds, covering every corner.
  • Keep the iron moving in small circles to avoid scorching.

Allow it to cool completely before peeling the backing paper.

Common Problems and How to Avoid Them

  • Edges peeling up: Iron wasn’t hot enough or pressure was uneven.
  • Colors fading after wash: Use high-quality transfer paper and wash inside out.
  • Cracks forming: Avoid over-stretching fabric and let it cool properly before wearing.
  • Shiny film showing: Trim closer to the design next time.

Aftercare Tips

  • Wait 24 hours before washing.
  • Turn the shirt inside out when washing and drying.
  • Use cold water and avoid bleach or softener.
  • Air-dry for best results — dryers can fade the print faster.

Risks of DIY T-Shirt Printing

While home t-shirt printing is fun, there are a few risks to keep in mind:

  • Transfers may peel or crack after a few washes.
  • Colors can fade or shift depending on printer ink quality.
  • Uneven heat or pressure can ruin the fabric.
  • Not all fabrics (like polyester or blends) will hold the design properly.

If you want durable, professional-quality custom t-shirts, we can help. At Hotline Apparel, we offer expert t-shirt printing and t-shirt design services across Canada. Your artwork will look vibrant, last long, and feel great to wear.

👉 Visit HotlineApparel.ca or contact us anytime — call or write to us, and we’ll handle the printing while you focus on your ideas.

In our next article, we’ll talk about screen printing — a professional method used for long-lasting results. to get notified when it’s out!