posted by Ahijoy on November 4, 2022
What Is Flocked Iron-On And How To Apply It?
Vinyl films have revolutionized the world of arts and crafts introducing superb innovative trends and features. Exhibiting an amazing variety in colors and textures, they inspire both expert and novice crafters to create beautiful projects that win laurels from all.
There is a wide range of craft vinyl films available from matte and glossy to glitter, holographic, temperature change and glow in the dark. A recent addition to this list is an amazing vinyl that is both unique and highly exquisite. – Flocked Iron-on.
What Is Flocked Iron-On?
Flocked Iron-on is a form of vinyl that can be heat pressed onto any cotton, polyester or cotton/poly blend fabric to revamp shirts, t-shirts, sweatshirts, bags, shoes and home decor. It is a thin film with a nap or flocking of polyester fibers on the surface that gives it a unique fuzzy or furry texture and a soft, luxurious feel. When touched, it feels the same as suede or velvet.
The Superb Features Of Flocked Iron-On
Flocked Iron-on boasts some amazing features that are transferred onto the crafts making them extremely captivating. These are as follows:
Easy To Weed
Since it is differently textured, one might feel that weeding it can be difficult. This is not so. It is extremely easy to cut, weed and apply with the same settings as used for matte vinyl. Even the most intricate designs can be created without much effort. Once weeding is done, one might notice a little fuzz on the carrier sheet. This should not be a cause for concern and it will not transfer onto the project when ironed.
Flocked Iron-On In Layers
You can use flocked Iron-on vinyl to create beautiful layered designs. It can be used as a top or base layer, in borders or beside other specialty vinyl films. Customizing with a mix and match pattern with flocked, glitter or glossy iron-on vinyl can be a game changer.
When layering, three things are of utmost importance and have to be taken care of: time, temperature and pressure. Every layer has to be heated for one to five seconds to avoid shrinkage.
Adds Depth And Dimension
Since Flocked Iron-on has a slightly raised surface due to the fuzz and furry appearance, it adds depth and dimension to the design. Though it might seem thick because of it, this is not the case at all.. It is perfectly easy to carve on any of your favorite cutting machines.
Project Ideas For Flocked Iron-On
Now that you know what Flocked Iron-on vinyl is, let’s see how many different kinds of amazing projects you can create with it.
T-shirts And Shirts
Young children enjoy wearing shirts with their favorite animal or cartoon character's face on them. It would be good if the decal was pleasant and soft to touch. Flocked Iron-on is perfect for creating this type of design. It also revamps shirts for elders making them look chic and classy.
Sports Wear
Flocked Iron-on can be used for transferring numbers on sweatshirts; making team shirts with identical designs and hats with the team logo or initials on them. Even if you are not a member of a team but support one that is your all-time favorite, you can write its name on your t-shirt and wear it when you watch the game.
Logos
Flocked Iron-on vinyl looks a bit like embroidery and can be used as an alternative to it. Uniforms, may they be corporate or those of schools, can use the vinyl to create their logos on the shirts at competitive rates. It can be used in dance costumes as well or on shirts for a chorus group.
Bags
You may customize your backpack or tote bag with Flocked Iron-on. Transfer a unique design or your initials on the bag to give it a personal touch. Tote bags are excellent gifts for birthdays or Halloween. They may hold a variety of goodies. To make the design more fascinating, use Flocked Iron-on vinyl in conjunction with metallic vinyl.
Socks
When you have too many identical socks at home, it is wise to label them. You can put your initials on them using Flocked Iron-on vinyl so that you can easily match them after washing. For this, you can use either white or black Flocked Iron-on. You may also customize Christmas socks by combining Flocked and Glitter Iron-on vinyl.
Pillowcases
Pillows are cozy and squishy. Personalized pillowcases with a smooth, suede-like material that is comfortable to sleep on are ideal. When using Flocked Iron-on for this sort of project, you can't go wrong.
Home Decor
There is so much you can do to revamp your home décor using Flocked Iron-on vinyl. You can transfer beautiful designs on lamp shades and bed throws. You can create wall hangings using compatible fabric. You can also make creative patterns on table runners to make dinner time extra special.
How To Use Flocked Iron-on
Flocked Iron-on is available in amazing colors. You can easily create many intricate designs from it. Here’s how to use the elegant vinyl film.
Applying Flocked Iron-on Vinyl With A Heat Press Machine
- Once you have finalized the design, place the Flocked Iron-on on a cutting mat with the shiny, vibrant side facing down. The dull side should be on top.
- Cricut has a pre-programmed Flocked Vinyl cut setting that flawlessly cuts through Flocked Iron-on. Alternatively, set the cut dial to ‘Iron-On+’.
- Remove the negative vinyl from your design using a weeding tool such as the weeding pens at Ahijoy.
- Preheat your heat press to 320°F and set the timer for 20 seconds.
- Before applying Flocked Iron-on, preheat the clothing for a few seconds.
- Apply transfer tape to your design and smooth it out with a squeegee.
- Remove the carrier sheet and paste the design where you want it on the shirt or any other fabric.
- Cover it with a Teflon sheet or parchment paper and press for 20 seconds with medium pressure.
- Peel off the transfer sheet when the design has cooled down.
- If pressing multiple layers, take care of applying the right amount of heat so as not to damage the vinyl.
Applying Flocked Vinyl With A Hand Iron
Follow the previously mentioned instructions until it is time to apply heat. Now do the following:
- Use dry iron, not the one with the steam function.
- Do not carry out the process on an iron board. Work on a flat, hard, steady surface.
- Set the iron dial between cotton and linen.
- Apply transfer tape and paste the design on the fabric.
- Place parchment paper and Teflon sheet over your design and press with firm applying pressure for 30 to 60 seconds.
- Do not slide the iron from side to side. Apply pressure evenly over the whole design.
- Peel off the transfer tape when the design has cooled down. If the design is lifted with the transfer tape, press that area again for 10 seconds with a parchment paper on top to adhere it properly.
Care Instructions
Below are the instructions to be followed to get the best out of the vinyl:
- Before starting the process, check the specific cutting and ironing instructions for Flocked Iron-on. It is imperative to do a test cut before cutting the actual design. If you detect any problems in the results, you may use this opportunity to make appropriate corrections.
- Pre-press your clothing to eliminate any creases and moisture before transferring the vinyl.
- Flocked iron-on should be applied for 15-20 seconds at 320°F (160°C) with medium pressure.
- Cold peel is recommended.
- If you have applied Flocked Iron-on to a fabric, it’s recommended to wait at least 24-48 hours before washing the item.
- Use lukewarm water and a gentle detergent to wash the fabric. If it is a shirt, flip it inside out.
- Do not use bleach or any other harsh cleaning agents.
- Let it dry naturally for longevity.
- Iron before wearing inside out as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Words
Flocked Iron-on is not your typical sort of vinyl. It has a unique texture and is useful for amazingly distinctive and beautiful crafts projects. It has a slightly furry surface that makes it look like suede or felt, and adds depth and richness to your design. Creating different projects using Flocked Iron-on is innovative and fun. Grab a sheet and give it a try on an apron or a t-shirt. You will instantly fall in love with this vinyl!
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