Best heat press for shirts 2023: Machines to transform your t-shirts

Whether you are new to sublimation and want to add a personal touch to your t-shirts, or you want to improve the quality and efficiency of your transfers, you are going to need the best heat press for shirts. A heat press isn’t essential, with iron-on transfers still very much viable, however, this method comes with certain limitations. No matter if it’s a hobby or a business, a heat press machine is going to enable you to transfer your sublimation designs quicker, and with more consistency.

These machines come equipped with heat plates of varying sizes, ready to handle not only t-shirts but also plates, mouse pads, keychains, coaters, and more. Moreover, T-shirt heat presses are efficient and powerful tools, offering different power outputs and the flexibility to adjust temperature and time settings. They also boast sleek and compact designs, fitting seamlessly into various spaces.

	Best heat press for shirts TUSY Heat Press Machine	Good size, convenient, and affordable	Check Lowest Price
	Best value ZENY 5 in 1 Heat Press Machine	Multifunctional Swing Away Clamshell Printing	Check Lowest Price
	Best for beginners Cricut EasyPress 2	Easy to use and very compact	Check Lowest Price

Ideal heat press machine types for shirts

When selecting the suitable heat press machine for your sublimation shirt printing needs, it’s essential to recognize that these machines, despite their similar appearances, come in distinct types, each tailored to specific tasks. Here, we’ll explore the fundamental types of heat-press machines that work best for shirts.

Clamshell Heat-Press Machine

A clamshell heat-transfer machine works just like its name suggests – it opens and closes like a clamshell with a hinge connecting its upper and lower plates. Both beginners and experienced professionals like this design for a few good reasons. It’s super easy to use and doesn’t take up much space, making it great for many people. Clamshell machines are good at printing designs on thin, flat things like T-shirts, tote bags, and sweatshirts. However, it’s worth mentioning that this style might not be the best choice if you want to put designs on thicker materials. That’s because it might have trouble spreading the pressure evenly across the plate’s surface, and that’s important for getting good transfers.

Portable Heat-Press Machine

Portable heat-press machines are designed for artists who want to try customizing clothing without spending much money. These machines are lightweight and meant for small-scale heat transfer vinyl (HTV) and dye-sublimation transfers on shirts and tote bags. They’re a cost-effective way to get started with heat press transfers quickly. However, it’s worth noting that portable machines can be a bit challenging to use when it comes to applying pressure evenly.

So, when hunting for the perfect heat press machine for shirts, consider these two main types and their suitability for your specific needs.

Best heat press machine for shirts: TUSY T-Shirt Press

Introducing the TUSY T-Shirt Press, an affordable heat press for shirts. Unlike the PowerPress and Fancierstudio models, the TUSY heat press machine sports a unique design. It offers some improved features, making it a noteworthy contender in the world of heat presses.

One of the notable differences in this machine is how the pressure is adjusted. Instead of adjusting it at the back of the press, the pressure is conveniently controlled over the heat plate itself. This design tweak simplifies changing and setting the pressure correctly, ensuring that you get consistent and precise results with ease.

Another handy feature that sets the TUSY T-Shirt Press apart is the presence of a lower handle on the platen. This handle proves invaluable in preventing the machine from inadvertently moving when you open it, adding a layer of convenience and safety to your heat-pressing tasks.

An instruction manual is included to help you get started and make the most of this machine. Moreover, you can find helpful online videos and a wealth of positive reviews from satisfied users, which can serve as valuable resources in your heat-pressing journey.

Best t-shirt heat press for professionals: PowerPress

The PowerPress Industrial-Quality Digital Heat Press is a sturdy and versatile machine designed to cater to the needs of both home-based enthusiasts and business owners. Its heavy-duty construction ensures reliability and durability, making it a solid choice for various heat transfer projects. Whether you’re into customizing artistic T-shirts or working with other flat materials in bulk, this heat press has got you covered.

One standout feature of this heat press is its generous 15-by-15-inch Teflon-coated heating plate, providing ample space for transferring designs onto a wide range of materials. It’s also unafraid of high temperatures, capable of reaching up to 455 degrees Fahrenheit, making it well-suited for demanding applications like sublimation transfers.

The user-friendly interface with an LCD screen simplifies temperature and timer settings, allowing for precise customization with minimal effort. Furthermore, an adjustable pressure knob allows users to customize the pressure for various materials, guaranteeing consistently exceptional outcomes.

Honorable mention: Fancierstudio Digital Heat Press 15 x 15

15-by-15-inch working area and a nonstick silicone pad offer plenty of room for your creative projects. With a temperature range from 0 to a scorching 500 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s primed and ready for sublimation applications and various heat transfer projects.

One of the standout features of the Fancierstudio Digital Heat Press is its adaptability. While clamshell-style heat presses are typically not the go-to for thicker materials, this machine defies the norm. It boasts an adjustable pressure system that can handle the demands of materials with varying thicknesses. Whether working on a delicate project or something more substantial, this heat press has got you covered.

Constructed with a robust, heavy-duty steel frame, this heat press is designed to withstand the rigors of frequent use, making it a reliable choice for hobbyists and small businesses. Plus, it comes equipped with a dedicated timer and heat controllers, ensuring consistent results in repeat applications.

Best beginner heat press machine for shirts: Cricut Easy Press 2

Introducing the Cricut Easy Press 2, a heat press tailor-made for home use and an ideal choice for beginners. This impressive machine has earned its place as best for beginners, and here’s why: it combines user-friendliness with effective heat transfer capabilities. Available in three different sizes to suit your needs, the Cricut Easy Press 2 boasts features that simplify the heat press process while ensuring professional results.

One of the standout features of this heat press is its generous 12″x10″ surface area. This size ensures even pressure distribution, a crucial factor for achieving excellent results in your heat transfer projects. While some might wonder if an ordinary iron could do the job, the Easy Press 2’s larger surface area sets it apart, delivering superior outcomes.

If you’ve never used a heat press, fear not; the Cricut Easy Press 2 is designed for a hassle-free user experience. Setting it up and getting started is as easy as using a phone. Remember to configure your settings correctly before you begin, guided by the user-friendly display on top of the unit.

This heat press, often described as a cross between a heat press and an iron, is perfect for artists, DIY T-shirt enthusiasts, beginners, and creative teens. It’s worth noting that it may not be the top choice for mass production or commercial use due to its size and capacity limitations.

Best value heat press for shirts: ZENY Heat Press Machine

The ZENY JA0854 Professional Heat Press Machine is the best heat press that goes beyond simple T-shirt heat pressing. Its capabilities extend to a variety of exciting applications, making it a valuable addition to any crafting or small business endeavor. This advanced digital combo heat press machine transfers realistic images and text onto various surfaces, including ceramics, glasses, and textiles like cotton, flax, chemical fiber, and nylon. Whether customizing T-shirts, caps, ceramic items, mugs, coasters, mouse pads, or even tackling more intricate projects like jigsaw puzzles, this all-in-one press has you covered.

One of its standout features is the adjustable multi-spring pressure knob, simplifying the process of printing on materials of different thicknesses. The 360-degree swing-away design enhances safety by allowing the heating elements to be moved aside when needed. With a generously sized 12″ x 15″ transfer plate, you’ll have plenty of space to bring your creative visions to life. The LCD control board ensures precision in heat transfer projects, offering digital temperature and time control. The temperature range spans 32 to 399 degrees Fahrenheit (0 to 203 degrees Centigrade), and the timer can be set for up to 999 seconds.

How to heat press a shirt: Step-by-step

A heat press is a fantastic tool for adding vinyl cutouts or transferring paper designs to your shirts. While it’s not overly complicated, mastering this process can impact the quality of your finished shirt. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to heat press a shirt:

• First, ensure you have a stable surface for your heat press. Even smaller presses can get quite hot, so stability is essential.

• Set the temperature and pressure on your press. Refer to your press’s manual or the information on the HTV package for specific guidelines, as different fabrics and materials may require different settings.

• You’re ready to begin once your press reaches the desired temperature, typically in a minute or two.

• Prepare your shirt by briefly pressing it on the lower plate. This step removes wrinkles and creates a smooth surface for your designs.

• Carefully position your HTV cutouts or transfer paper designs on the shirt, ensuring they are where you want them. Be cautious not to touch the heated upper plate.

• Some vinyl types may require a protective Teflon sheet on top of the design, so consult your HTV package for guidance.

• Close the press over the shirt and design using the handle. Follow the recommended time in your press’s manual or on the HTV package.

• After the designated time, open the press and gently peel away the carrier paper or transfer paper from the design. If using certain vinyl types, you may need to peel while the vinyl is still hot.

How long and at what temperature to heat press a shirt

The duration and temperature required for heat pressing a shirt depend on the fabric and the specific vinyl or transfer you plan to use. Typically, you can locate the suggested pressing times in your heat press’s user manual and on the product packaging. If you would like further help on your sublimation journey, We have written an in-depth guide on the best heat press settings.

Here are some general suggestions:

Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV): Typically, HTV only needs about ten to fifteen seconds in the press. However, specialty HTV types like flocked vinyl might require around fifteen seconds at a lower heat.

Printed Transfer Designs: Apply pressure for approximately 20 seconds.

Screen-Printed Transfers: The time can vary depending on the thickness of the design, ranging from ten to thirty seconds.

Polyester: Be cautious with polyester shirts because they can melt or scorch if exposed to too much heat. Try to limit the press time to ten seconds or less.

Refer to your heat press owner’s manual or the product packaging for precise temperature settings. Here are some common heat press temperatures for different materials:

For light-colored cotton, it’s best to set the temperature at 350°F. Polyester requires a lower temperature of 270°F. Regular heat transfer vinyl (HTV) performs well at 315°F, while glitter HTV should be pressed at 320°F. When using inkjet transfer paper, a temperature of 325°F is suitable. For screenprint transfers, the recommended range is between 350°F and 375°F. These temperature guidelines help ensure successful heat transfer projects, allowing you to achieve the desired results on different materials.

Conclusion

The best heat press for shirts makes transferring and ensuring consistent, quality prints easier. We’ve explored some great options, from the powerful PowerPress to the user-friendly Cricut Easy Press 2. Follow your materials’ recommended temperature and time settings for the best results. You can turn plain t-shirts into unique, creative shirts with the right heat press machine and technique.