Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) is incredibly versatile and can be applied to a wide range of items, primarily fabrics. The key is that the material must be able to withstand the heat and pressure required for the vinyl to adhere properly.

Here’s a comprehensive list of items and materials where HTV can typically be applied:

I. Apparel & Textiles (Most Common & Ideal for HTV):

• T-Shirts: Cotton, polyester, cotton/poly blends (most popular).
• Hoodies & Sweatshirts: Cotton, polyester, cotton/poly blends.
• Activewear/Sportswear: Polyester, nylon, spandex (often requires special stretch HTV).
• Jerseys: Polyester, blends.
• Pants & Shorts: Jeans (denim), sweatpants, yoga pants, leggings.
• Hats & Caps: Cotton, polyester, some blends (may require a cap press).
• Bags: Tote bags (canvas, cotton), duffel bags, backpacks, lunch bags, shoe bags, athletic bags.
• Socks: Cotton, polyester blends.
• Underwear: Boxer shorts, briefs.
• Baby Items: Onesies, baby blankets, bibs.
• Outerwear: Jackets (denim, some nylon, light silicon-treated), windbreakers.
• Other Apparel: Dresses, skirts, aprons, scarves, ties, robes, bathrobes, pajamas, slippers.
• Home Textiles: Pillowcases, cushion covers, wall hangings, tea towels, oven mitts, curtains, dish rags.

II. Other Fabric-Based Items:

• Canvas: Canvas bags, canvas wall art, canvas shoes.
• Burlap: Decorative items, bags.
• Faux Leather/Pleather: Purses, jackets, accessories (use lower heat).
• Ribbon: For custom bows or decorations.

III. Less Common (But Possible with Specific HTV Types & Techniques):

• Wood: Requires a specific type of HTV and often lower heat/different pressure. Can be used for signs, small decorative items.
• Leather (Genuine): Can work but requires very careful heat management and a suitable HTV.
• Acrylic: Some HTV can be applied, but heat sensitivity is a major concern.
• Paper/Cardstock: Usually not ideal for traditional HTV due to heat, but specialized “low-temp” or adhesive-backed vinyl might work.
• Ceramics/Glass/Metal: These are typically for adhesive vinyl, not HTV, unless you’re layering HTV on top of adhesive vinyl, or using a very specific process. Standard HTV is designed for fibrous materials.

Important Considerations:

• Fabric Composition: Natural fibers like cotton are generally easy. Synthetics like polyester and nylon may require lower temperatures or specific HTV types (e.g., “stretch” HTV for activewear, “sublimation blocking” HTV for certain polyesters).
• Heat Sensitivity: Some delicate fabrics (like rayon, silk, satin) can scorch, melt, or shrink at high temperatures. Always test on an inconspicuous area or use specialized low-temperature HTV.
• Texture: HTV adheres best to smooth, flat surfaces. Very coarse or textured fabrics like some heavy knits or loosely woven materials might result in a less smooth application or reduced durability.
• Waterproofing: Items with waterproof coatings (like some rain jackets) often repel HTV adhesive.
• Manufacturer Recommendations: Always check the specific HTV product’s instructions for recommended materials, temperature, pressure, and time. Different types of HTV (glitter, puff, metallic, stretch, etc.) can have varying application requirements.