CCH2Oh Boy!

by Courtney Matlick, Stahls’ CAD-CUT^® Direct

Here are two terms you never hear together: “personalization” and “water-based screen printing.”  Unless, of course, you are talking about CAD-CUT H2O.  This technique uses Super Film heat transfer material to create customized designs that look and feel just like water-based screen printing.  This super soft feel can easily be achieved with your vinyl cutter and heat press by simply adjusting the application when heat applying the film.

While the application is easy, there are some tips and tricks to making sure you get the color you want on the garment. Of course, it’s fun to play around with CCH2O and see what kind of results you can achieve using Super Film on your heat press.  But in case you don’t have time, here are a few tips from our testing lab to help you achieve great results:

-Request a book of heat transfer material swatches. Once you receive your swatches, flip them over so the dull side of the material is showing.  When selecting a color, this is the side of the material that you want to choose from since this is the color that will transfer to the garment.

-To achieve a white image, select the pink Super Film material. Don’t worry, this isn’t a typo.  Pink Super Film has a white backing that will transfer onto the garment leaving only the white on the garment and the pink top layer remaining on the carrier. Just remember, when placing white on a dark garment, the color will not be truly opaque.

-Although most Super Film colors are compatible with the CCH2O technique, there are a few that you should avoid when trying to create these soft finishes.  White, pearl, and dark green Super Film are not recommended for this technique.

- The color of the heat transfer material changes based on the color of fabric to which it is applied. In the photo below, you can see how the color opacity varies  from dark to light fabrics.

Please note: Actual color may vary depending on monitor settings.

With these tips, you’ll be creating soft, custom designs in no time (and making money on them too!)  For more great tips and tricks for creating personalized garments with a water-based screen print feel check out our CAD-CUT H2O Technical Tips and Tricks instructional video.