How to Attach Iron on Labels

If you want to personalize a hand-made garment, or label a back pack or hat, iron on labels offer a fantastic and quick solution, however, if the label is attached improperly, it won’t hold. Knowing and carefully following the correct application process will ensure that the label will outlast numerous washings and dryings.

Special adhesives used on iron on products activate when heated, and bond with the material. Once dry or cooled, these fabric glues have amazing staying power, and the fast application make them a great labeling alternative for busy moms, or less than perfect tailors.

Steps:

1. Prepare your materials. Set up your ironing surface, an ironing board or other flat, protected surface such as a table covered with a cloth or towel, and warm up the iron. Choose the “cotton” setting on the iron, or whichever is the medium to hot temperature control.
2. Remove, if any, paper backing from the label.
3. Place the garment or personal article on the board inside out, and position the iron on label on the garment where it will be attached.
4. Turn over the piece so that the heat will be applied to the back of the iron on label.
5. Place a small piece of cloth, a handkerchief works well, or parchment paper over the label.
6. Apply the iron for 10 seconds, pressing firmly.
7. Check, then repeat steps five and six as many times as necessary to ensure a tight bond has been created with the material.
8. Allow the label to cool completely, and wait at least 24 hours before washing and drying.

Some simple tips to remember when attaching iron-on labels:

1. Always make sure that the garment or fabric article that you are applying the iron on label to is completely clean and dry. Dirty or even damp fabrics will not bond with the adhesive properly.
2. Never use the steam setting on your iron to attach labels; the vapor will hinder the application process.
3. Once the iron on label is cool, try to peel it off with your fingernail. If the edges are easy to either lift, your iron wasn’t hot enough, or it needed more pressure and time to adhere.

Iron on labels and clothing tags offer a great solution to your garment-labeling quandary, and by properly following the application process, you will ensure that your labels will remain in place.

For more information about iron on labels, or the ordering process, visit Thirty Seven West, a premier label maker committed to excellence in apparel labels, and offering an extensive selection of custom woven fabric labels, personalized garment tags, and many other great, personalized products.