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pamm · July 10th, 2007

I have shirts I screenprinted & flash cured about 6 years ago (well, I have lots going on!) & I'm afraid some may not be cured right. One I gave to someone washed out a little

. I want to sell them-- can I "recure" them on my heat press to make sure they'll be permanent?

snarley · July 10th, 2007

Hi Pam,

Short answer: YES

You can cure a print on a heat transfer press by bring the element down directly on the print with a pressing sheet between the element and the print. This often leaves a rubbery feel to the image.

To solve that problem adjust the press so the element doesn't touch the shirt set the temp at 375 degrees and cure for 30 seconds, be careful not to scorch the shirt.

Best wishes and good luck with your shirts.

Bill M

pamm · July 10th, 2007

Would a pressing sheet be 1 of those teflon sheets I read about, & this will work for shirts that were cured a few years ago? Could I buy just a few somewhere? I no longer buy wholesale due to other obligations & lack of time. I've been reluctant to sell the shirts & having complaints or never know if they were defective/ripping off someone. My husband would be thrilled to know I can fix & sell them- would free up lots of space in the workshop! Thanks!!

snarley · July 11th, 2007

Hi Pam,

You could use a Teflon sheet or parchment paper even Kraft paper. The ink won't stick to the Teflon sheet, nothing sticks to them. If some ink does transfer to the sheet it can be wiped off and used indefinitely.

The thing you have to do is get the ink to 320 degrees Fahrenheit, that is when the PVC resin particles absorb the plasticizer and form a continuous film called an elastomer or fusion. If you do not reach that temperature the ink will crack and flake off the shirt when washed.

Bill M