What is Iron On Flocked Vinyl? How to Use it?

When we talk about vinyl, a glossy and shimmery paper comes to mind. And yes, that is what initially vinyl was all about. But today, in the printing world, flocked vinyl is something that has become quite popular among DIYers and hobbyists. Its thick, fuzzy texture allows you to add texture and depth to your printing projects which no other printing method allows.

Its unique texture is the reason behind its popularity. Furthermore, unlike all the other vinyl, you can layer flocked vinyl on top of solid vinyl, and you can layer it on top of flocked vinyl using sublimation ink. In short, it can be layered in both ways, on and above, which makes it highly versatile and flexible to use.

For those of you who are unaware of What Flocked Vinyl is, you have landed at the right spot. Today in this article we are going to be discussing what flocked HTV is, here it differs from solid HTV, what are its benefits and how you can print and cut it to transfer it onto your substrates. Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about flocked vinyl.

What Is Flocked Heat Transfer Vinyl?

Flocked vinyl is the type of vinyl that comes with a fuzzy, leathery, and suede texture. It is thicker than normal vinyl and has better adhesive properties when it comes to fabrics. It adds depth, texture, and dimensions to the prints which no other printing method does.

Its unique texture is what makes it popular among the masses. For the hobbyist, flocked vinyl projects can be a great way to pass their time. Many have also turned it into their business as flocked iron-on projects can last up to 50 washes which means months and even years, depending on their usage and washing cycles.

Flocked Vs Smooth Heat Transfer

Smooth heat transfers vinyl and flocked heat transfer vinyl is much similar in terms of application. The only difference between the two is the texture and the cutting mechanism. Flocked vinyl is fuzzy and thick in terms of texture whereas smooth vinyl is thin and smooth.

Similarly, you can use a thin blade to cut through smooth vinyl whereas you will need a thick blade with deep penetration to cut through the fuzzy vinyl. Other than that, the process of printing and heat press are similar and require the same amount of time.

Related: Permanent vs Removable Vinyl

What is Flocked Iron On Used For?

Flocked heat transfer vinyl has a lot to offer to the hobbyist. Its unique texture and layering feature allow you to create projects like never before. Here is what flocked HTV has to offer;

1. It adds dimensions to the print.
2. You can layer sublimation inks on top of the flocked vinyl print.
3. You can add flocked vinyl onto solid vinyl print.
4. It comes in both hot and cold peel, giving you both a glossy and matte finish.

Substrates On Which Flocked Heat Transfer Vinyl Can Be Applied

Using a flocked iron-on is much similar to using a regular heat transfer vinyl. But to help you out, we have broken down the process into multiple steps. From cutting the vinyl to applying it using heat transfer, we have covered it all.

Cutting Flocked Vinyl

First things first. Let us begin with cutting the vinyl. For this process, you only need two things: your Cricut and your cutting mat. Once you have your vinyl print, place it upside down onto the mat. Remember the shinny side needs to be facing downwards.

Now attach your pointy blade to your cutting machine (Cricut) and make sure to adjust the settings for deep penetration. Since the flocked vinyl is thicker than solid vinyl, it requires more force and dept for cutting.

Position the mat and the vinyl on top into the cutting machine and let it run on iron-on settings. Once done, remove the mat and start weeding your decal. The weeding process for flocked vinyl is similar to solid vinyl so it should be a problem.

Applying Flocked Vinyl Using Heat Transfer

The next step is to apply the flocked vinyl onto the fabric using heat transfer. Once you have weeded the decal, it is now ready to be applied to any type of fabric including cotton. Here is a step-by-step approach using which you can apply it to your fabric successfully.

1. Turn on your heat transfer machine and let it pre-heat at 320°F. 15-20 seconds is more than enough.
2. Now take your fabric and iron it at medium heat to remove the wrinkles and the moisture caught between the threads.
3. Now place the fabric onto the heat press.
4. Once in place, it is time to position the decal on the fabric.
5. Next, you need to press the heat press down. But we suggest that you place a towel onto the decal before pressing the heat press to ensure the decal is positioned in place.
6. Let the heat press run for 10-15 seconds. Remove the lid to check if the vinyl has completely adhered.
7. If not, let’s sit for a few seconds more and you should be good to go.
8. Once down, peel it off if it is a hot peel, or wait for it to cool down if it is a cold peel.
9. And you are done!

A trick here is that to ensure proper adhesiveness, read the guidelines of the vinyl brand that you are using. In most cases, vinyl comes with instructions that suggest the required temperature and time period for the heat press.

Furthermore, once your print is onto the fabric, do not wash it for 24-48 hours. The longer you let it sit, the better it will stick to the fabric.

Layering on Flocked Heat Transfer Vinyl Using Sublimation

That is not where your craft project should end because you can further customize your fabrics by adding sublimation to your flocked vinyl shirts, pillowcases, and more. The good thing is that you don’t need much for this, just your flocked fabric and printing supplies.

Here is how you can add sublimation ink to your flocked vinyl fabrics:

1. Using your sublimation printer, print your desired design onto the sublimation paper.
2. Once done, place the paper, with the print side facing downwards onto the vinyl.
3. Using heat-resistant tape, secure the print in place.
4. Now add butcher paper to your heat press mat and place it inside the shirt.
5. Position the shirt onto the heat transfer.
6. Add butcher paper to the sublimation and vinyl print as well.
7. Let the heat press run depending on the instructions on the sublimation paper package.
8. Make sure to set the temperature, pressure, and timing requirements accordingly.
9. Once done, remove the heat press mat and the butcher paper.
10. Reveal the design and you are all done!

Using this technique, you can create amazing designs and unique projects for your home and office décor. Flocked iron-on vinyl allows you to add texture and dimension to your prints which no other printing method has to offer.

Related: Types of T-Shirt Printing

Care Instructions

Although flocked vinyl is long-lasting, there are certain ways in which it can be harmed when exposed to extreme conditions. So, here are a few care instructions that will help you ensure the longevity of your flocked vinyl projects:

• Wash them after every 48 hours or more
• When washing, make sure to turn the fabric inside out
• Always use cold water for washing
• Use natural or mild detergents
• Always let the fabrics airdry
• Do not expose it to chlorine or bleach

In case you have used flocked vinyl on our substrates, keep them away from water and heat. Extreme weather conditions can affect the adhesiveness of the vinyl which in return leads to cracks and fading. So, keep your substrates in cold and dry places.

Iron on Flocked Vinyl FAQs

Conclusion

By now you should know what flocked iron-on is, what to use it for and what it has to offer to your craft projects. With its diverse range of layering options, you can create craft projects like never before. So, get your stock of flock vinyl, your Cricut, and your substrates – and start printing!