What Are Puff Heat Transfers?

Puff Heat Transfers are custom printed designs that expand when heat is applied, creating a soft, three-dimensional effect on the garment. Unlike traditional flat transfers, the finished print has a rounded surface that you can both see and feel.

Unlike Puff Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV), which requires cutting and weeding, Stahls' Puff Transfers arrive ready to apply. This reduces preparation time and makes them a convenient option for garment decorators looking to introduce raised printing into their production process.

Why Choose Puff Heat Transfers for Custom Clothing?

You don't need complicated artwork or multiple colours to make an impression. A simple logo or bold graphic can become the standout feature of a garment when given a raised, textured finish.

This makes Puff particularly appealing for streetwear, independent fashion brands and branded merchandise, where decoration plays an important role in the overall design.

Stahls' Puff Transfers are available in a range of colours, including metallic options, giving decorators the flexibility to create different looks. They're also designed to withstand over 50 washes when correctly applied, making them a durable choice for clothing intended to be worn regularly.

For garment decorators, Puff offers another way to expand their product range and provide customers with something beyond a conventional flat print.

What Designs Work Best with Puff Heat Transfers?

Artwork preparation is important when working with Puff because the material expands during application.

Fine lines, small lettering and intricate details can lose definition, so designs with bold shapes, clear typography and sufficient spacing between elements generally produce the best results.

Oversized lettering, statement logos and simple graphics are particularly effective. A large back print can emphasise the three-dimensional finish, while a smaller chest design can introduce a subtle textured detail.

For Stahls' custom Puff Heat Transfers, artwork should have a minimum line thickness of 4mm. Checking the design specifications before ordering will help ensure your artwork is suitable for Puff printing.

How to Order Custom Puff Heat Transfers

Ordering custom Puff transfers through Stahls' is straightforward. Simply select your required transfer size, upload your single-colour artwork and choose your preferred Puff colour.

With different sizes available, you can create designs for a variety of garment placements, from smaller logos to oversized prints. Minimum order quantities apply, so check the ordering requirements when planning your project.

Your transfers arrive ready for heat application, allowing you to focus on decorating rather than cutting and weeding individual designs.

How to Apply Puff Heat Transfers

Correct heat press application is essential for achieving an even, consistent raised finish.

Start by checking the application area is flat. Seams, pockets and other raised surfaces can interfere with even pressure, so position the garment carefully before applying your transfer. Use a Heat Press Pillow or Interchangeable Lower Platens when working with tricky placements. 

For Stahls' Puff Transfers, the recommended application settings are 150°C to 155°C for 12 to 15 seconds using medium pressure. Peel the carrier while hot to reveal the raised effect. Metallic Puff transfers require an additional three-second press after peeling.

Once applied, inspect the design to check that it has expanded evenly and adhered securely. If you're working on a larger order, test your setup on a sample garment before beginning production.

Always refer to the latest product-specific application instructions before pressing.