Adhesive vs. Heat Transfer
Guide to Buying Vinyl: Adhesive vs. Heat Transfer
Crafting with vinyl has become quite popular across the art, accessory, and design worlds. Although people make exciting plans to develop their unique decorations or products, some confusion still exists between the different types of vinyl available on the market today. When you understand the differences between adhesive options like Oracal 651 and 631 and heat transfer ones like Siser HTV, you can make a more informed decision about the best material for your project.
Differences Between Adhesive and Heat Transfer Materials
The primary difference between the two types of craft vinyl is their application. Adhesive vinyl is similar to a sticker that can temporarily or permanently affect everything from a water bottle to a signpost to the side of a car. Heat transfer vinyl (HTV) is ironed or pressed onto fabric items like T-shirts, pillowcases, and tote bags.
You can also find multiple specific vinyl finishes, thicknesses, sizes, and colors within these two varieties. The most popular product options are described more fully below.
Oracal 651 or 631 – Adhesive Vinyl
Adhesive vinyl offers a durable design option for creating many different types of commercial or consumer products. You can directly affix a company logo or cute image onto a water bottle, mailbox, or shop sign. Oracal 651 vinyl provides up to six years of brilliant color and design for many applications. It has an attractive glossy finish.
Oracle 631 offers an array of colors suitable for use in more temporary applications and has a matte finish with a removable adhesive making it great for indoors. The less permanent adhesive makes it an excellent choice for wall decals or temporary decorations like holiday window clings.
Siser HTV – Heat Transfer Vinyl
Iron-on transfers have been available in a variety of styles for many years. Today's heat transfer vinyl materials offer a much more durable solution. EasyWeed from Siser HTV allows you to create intricate and unique designs and messages that can affix permanently to T-shirts, tote bags, and more with a commercial iron or professional heat press.
Thin, flexible, and available in various colors, Siser HTV lets you start your fashion line or make T-shirts and other gear for a team, volunteer organization, or business.
With the increasing popularity of vinyl crafts and printed T-shirts, knowing the difference between adhesive and heat transfer vinyl is essential for your design success. Explore the possibilities and get creative and share your crafting adventures with us.
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For your vinyl crafting needs, please check our website at www.craftvinyl.ca. We offer different Adhesive and Heat Transfer Vinyl, perfect for your next project.
Learn Vinyl tips and tricks here:
TIPS AND TRICKS WHEN WORKING WITH ADHESIVE VINYL PART1