Why is My Heat Press Leaving Scorch Marks?

Have you ever tried using your heat transfer vinyl (HTV) on a t-shirt, pillow, etc. & when you lifted your heat press you gasped?  Why is my heat press leaving scorch marks?  Ruined right?!  Nooo, you can fix it! 

First, let me tell you why it’s doing it. The heat press turns moisture into steam & removes it from the item. This makes the color darken or leave what looks like a scorch mark.  It usually happens with mid-toned colors (purple, red, blue, green).

Now let me tell you how I fix it.  This is so easy! I’ve used this method on 100% cotton & a blend of cotton & polyester. Just put hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle & spray all over the marks.  You could hang to dry or you can throw it in the dryer for about 3-5 mins. then hang to dry the rest of the way.  If you use the dryer, turn your item inside out & because you just did the iron-on, make sure you don’t leave it in the dryer for longer than that.  The marks will disappear & your item is like new! 

Hope this post helps you if you ever have this happen!   Tip:  Anytime you use HTV on a blank, you should wait at least 48 hrs. before washing, turn garment inside out, no softener & hang dry or put in dryer on low heat!  Hope y’all have a great day crafting away! 💕