How Do I Know My Heat Transfer Is Centered?
When you’re first getting started with transfers, it’s the question EVERYONE asks: “How do I make sure my heat transfer is centered?”
So, don’t worry. You’re not alone.
In fact, we’ve had customers go so far as to make fancy t-square guides because this problem has them so worried. We can assure you…this truly isn’t necessary.
Method One: Crease the transfer and Use Three Fingers
- Fold your transfer in half and LIGHTLY make a crease to mark the center at the top.
- Use 3 fingers to measure down from the neckline.
- Align your crease with the center of the shirt.
Now, we have to let you in on a little secret. This method is HOTLY contested inside of our four walls.
The argument against it is that when you are printing on a 3X shirt, the transfer will look oddly high.
Method Two: Crease the transfer and use the armpit seam
- Fold your transfer in half and LIGHTLY make a crease to mark the center at the top.
- Using the bottom of the armpit seam and the center of the tag on the back of the shirt, imagine those two areas intersecting.
- Use that as your center guide and align the crease there.
The argument for this method is that it works on all sizes of apparel.
If we’re being honest, once you get the hang of it, most people just eyeball it.
GASP!
It’s inevitable that when someone comes into this business, they are terrified of getting their transfers off-center.
The reality is, as one of our most experienced employees says, “no one has a perfectly symmetrical body.” If you’re slightly off, no one is going to notice it.
Here are a couple of graphics about heat transfer placement that may help you until you get used to the process.
Take a deep breath. You’re going to do just fine.