GUIDE
Heat Press Settings for Glitter HTV: Temperature, Time, Pressure and Peel
The settings that work for SHINHAN glitter film on cotton, polyester and blends—plus the mistakes that cause peeling.
Starting settings
Temperature: 160 °C / 320 °F
Time: 15 seconds
Pressure: medium (a firm, even close without forcing the handle)
Peel: cold—let the carrier cool fully before removing it
These are the settings printed on the card in every SHINHAN sample kit. They apply to the standard 350 µm glitter film on a 100 µm PET carrier. Always run a test press on the actual fabric before production.
Cutting and weeding
Cut mirrored with the glitter side down on a standard vinyl plotter. Use a 60° blade with slightly more pressure than you would for PU film, because the glitter layer is thicker. Weed on a flat surface; a well-made film releases cleanly without leaving flakes on the mat.
Fabric-specific notes
Cotton and cotton blends: use the standard settings above.
Polyester performance fabrics: lower the temperature to 150 °C and extend the time to 18 seconds to reduce dye migration and scorch marks.
Nylon and coated fabrics: test first; use a Teflon sheet and a short second press.
Why transfers fail
Pressure too light: the adhesive never reaches the fibres. Check the platen with a sheet of paper at each corner.
Peeling warm: glitter film needs a cold peel; a warm peel lifts the edges.
Moisture in the garment: pre-press for 3–5 seconds to remove humidity.
Uneven platen: a worn press applies less pressure at the edges of large designs.
Care instructions to print on the label
Wait 24 hours before the first wash. Turn inside out, wash at up to 60 °C, do not bleach, tumble dry low, and do not iron directly on the design. Rated for 100+ washes at 60 °C in our lab.
