A heat press machine is a device that uses heat and pressure to transfer designs from one surface to another. They are commonly used to print images onto T-shirts, but can also be used for a variety of other applications such as printing on mugs, plates, ornaments, and more.
It's very useful for businesses or individuals who want to create custom products.
How to Use A Heat Press Machine?
Most heat press machines come with easy-to-follow instructions. However, here is a quick overview of how to use one:
- Preheat the machine according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Place your design on the surface you're going to be pressing it onto.
- Place a sheet of parchment paper over the top of the design to protect it from heat.
- Close the press and allow it to heat up to the correct temperature.
- Once it has reached the correct temperature, open the press and place your item on top of the design.
- Close the press and apply pressure for the recommended amount of time.
- Open the press and remove your item. Allow it to cool before using or wearing it.
What to Look at When Choosing the Best Heat Press Machine?
When choosing an ideal heat pressing device, there are a few things to consider, such as the type of machine, the size of the plates, and the pressure and temperature settings. In this article, we will provide a brief overview of each of these factors so that you can choose the best heat press equipment for your needs.
Heat Press Type
There are two main types of heat press machines:
- Clamshell Heat Press - This type of heat press machine has a top and bottom plate that opens and closes like a clamshell.
Clamshell heat presses are typically smaller and more compact than swing arm presses, making them ideal for small spaces. However, clamshell heat press machines can be more difficult to use and may require more effort to achieve even pressure.
- Swing Arm Press - This type of heat press machine has a swinging arm that holds the top plate in place.
They are larger than any clamshell heat press, but they are also easier to use since you don't have to open and close the press. They are a good choice for those who are new to using heat press machines.
Press Machines' Size of the Platen
The platen is the flat surface of the machine that the material is placed on.
- The size of the platen will determine the maximum size of the design that can be printed.
- Most heat press machines have a standard size platen, but some also offer larger or smaller platen sizes.
Pressure and Temperature Settings Of a Heat Press Machine
Most heat press machines have adjustable pressure and temperature settings. The pressure is what determines how exactly much contact the plates can make with the material.
The temperature sets how hot the plates will get. It's important to find a machine that has settings that can be adjusted according to the type of material you're working with.
Our Picks for the Perfect Pressing Gadget
Now that you know what to look for in heat press devices, here are our picks for the best machines on the market. We have tested several gadgets and carefully studies a wide span of heat press machine reviews to give you a clear view of what product you should find most suitable.
Beginner's Choice: VEVOR Heat Press 6 in 1 Combo Swing Away
VEVOR Heat Press Machine 6 in 1 Combo Swing Away is a swing away heat press that comes with a 15 x 15 Inch platen.
Pros:
- It has adjustable heat and pressure settings and can be used with a variety of materials.
- VEVOR Heat Press also comes with several plates for different applications, making it a good choice for those who are just starting out with heat press machines.
- An easy-to-navigate LCD display
- A versatile fully rotating swing away heat press arm for accurate heat pressing.
- VEVOR Heat Press is a good specimen of automatic heat presses with a good shut-off function.
Cons:
- The temperature settings need some careful adjustments.
- Some users report specific issues with the accuracy of swing arm direction compared to some other heat presses.
Overall, the VEVOR Heat Press Machine 6 in 1 Combo Swing Away is a good choice for beginners. It's easy to use and comes with all the necessary plates to get started.
If you need a more budget starter heat press, check on VEVOR Heat Press Machine 5 in 1 Combo.
Top Pick for Home Use: Cricut Easy Press 2
Cricut Easy Press 2 is a clamshell heat press that is 12 x 10 inches. It's a good choice for home use because it is small and compact, making it easy to store. It's also the best heat press machine on Amazon by average customer reviews.
Pros:
- Adjustable pressure and temperature settings for the best and fastest heat press.
- Cricut Easy Press 2 comes with an insulated base and auto-shutoff heat pressing feature, making it safe to use.
- Adjustable heat press options to make sure that the prints stick after many washes.
- Ceramic-coated surface to protect the fabric.
- An easy-to-use pressure adjustment knob.
Cons:
- Some users find the size too small for certain projects.
- It doesn't come with a stand, so you will need to buy one separately.
The Cricut Easy Press 2 is a good choice for home use. It's small and compact, making it easy to store. It also has adjustable heat and pressure settings, making it versatile.
Editor's Choice for Home Business: Fancierstudio Digital 15 x 15 Sublimation
Fancierstudio Heat Press Digital 15 x 15 Sublimation Heat Press is a clamshell press that comes with a 15 x 15 Inch platen.
Pros:
- Adjustable, reliable, and can be used with a variety of materials.
- Fancierstudio Power Heat Press also has a convenient silicon pad to hold the material in place securely during heat pressing.
- Adjustable pressure to ensure even coverage.
- Fancierstudio Power Heat Press is a powerful heat press machine with a 110 Voltage.
- Suitable for vinyl as well as fabric.
Cons:
- In some heat press reviews, this machine is reported as hard to release from lockdown position.
- Fancierstudio Power Heat Press is larger than some other heat presses.
To be short, the Fancierstudio Power Heat Press is a good choice for home businesses. It's adjustable and can be used with a variety of materials. It also has a convenient silicon pad to hold the material in place securely.
If you are looking for the best heat press machine 16x20 sized, check on Fancierstudio 16x20 Heat Press.
Expert's Choice For Business: PowerPress Industrial Heat Press
The PowerPress Industrial Heat Press is a swing-away heat press that comes with a 15 x 15 Inch platen.
Pros:
- Teflon coating for easy release after the heat pressing.
- Digital LED temperature and time control.
- Sturdy construction with a metal frame.
- 1400 W power output for the best results.
- Easy maintenance and cleaning.
Cons:
- Some users find digital controls difficult to use.
- It doesn't have an automatic shut-off feature.
Overall, the PowerPress Industrial Heat Press is a good swing-away heat press for businesses.
If you are looking for heat press machines with an automatic shut-off function for the same budget, check on TUSY 15x15 inch Heat Press Machine.
Most Reviewed Heat Press Machine for T-Shirts: 15x15 TUSY Pro 5 in 1
15x15 TUSY Heat Press Machine Pro 5 in 1 is versatile for different types of clothing and accessories.
Pros:
- 5-in-1 design for a mug, plate, and cap, together with the T-shirt heat press efficiency.
- Heating elements are covered with Teflon for even heat distribution and to prevent sticking.
- The LED display is user-friendly and easy to control.
- It comes with a full 360-degree rotation and swivel ability.
- The machine has a firm grip to avoid slipping during the heat-pressing process.
Cons:
- It is somewhat more expensive than the similar 15x15 inches heat press machines.
- Some users report that there can be some issues with the timer.
In a nutshell, the 15x15 TUSY Heat Press Machine Pro 5 in 1 is a good option for a T-shirt heat press for those who want to print on different materials. It's user-friendly and easy to control. It also has a firm grip to avoid slipping during the printing process.
If you are looking for a more affordable device, check on Hihone 15 x 12 inches Heat Press Machine.
Most Versatile by Use: CREWORKS 12x15 Inch Heat Press Machine
CREWORKS 12x15 Inch Heat Press comes with a 12x15 Inch platen with a great variety of very convenient attachments.
Pros:
- It has an intelligent LCD controller to set the temperature and time.
- The fully 360-degree rotation and swivel ability to evenly draw heat press.
- You can use these heat press machines for t-shirts, caps, mugs, plates, and more.
- The attachments are easy to change, including a hat press attachment, and a cup press attachment.
- The machine comes with a Teflon sheet and a silicone mat.
Cons:
- Some users find digital controls difficult to use.
- It is a bit noisy.
Overall, the CREWORKS 12x15 Inch Heat Press Machine is a good option for those who want to use it for a variety of materials due to its versatile attachments and high adjustability. It's user-friendly and easy to control. It also comes with a Teflon sheet and a silicone mat.
User's Pick For Mugs: Cricut Mug Press
If you are looking for the best heat press machines for mugs, check on Cricut Mug Press.
Pros:
- Even heat distribution to apply the patterns precisely.
- Automatic shut-off feature for your safety.
- This mug press comes with a light indicator to let you know when the machine is ready to use.
- You can use it with a variety of materials such as ceramic, glass, and more.
Cons:
- Mug blanks should be bought separately.
- The mug blanks size is limited to 11 - 16 oz.
Cricut Mug Press is a good specimen of automatic heat presses for those who want to use it specifically for mugs.
If you need a complete set with blanks and inks to start with, check on this Cricut Mug Press Machine Bundle.
The Coolest Heat Press Machine for Hats: Cricut Hat Press
If you are looking for the best cap press equipment, check on Cricut Hat Press.
Pros:
- Even heat distribution and a conveniently curved heat plate.
- Can be used with the Cricut Heat app.
- It comes with a light indicator to let you know when the machine is ready to use.
- You can use it with a variety of materials such as canvas, denim, and more.
- 3 heat setting options.
Cons:
- Hats should be bought separately.
- Some users find the digital controls difficult to adjust.
If you mainly apply small patterns and need a more compact and affordable heat press machine, check on Cricut EasyPress Mini.
Ultimate Heat Press Machine: 2022 Choice
Now that you know all about the best heat press machines on the market, it's time to make a decision. Keep in mind the most popular types of machines: clamshell heat press machines and swing arm heat press machines.
Beginner's budget option: choosing the best heat press machine depends on your needs and budget. If you are a beginner, we recommend checking on the VEVOR Heat Press 6-in-1 Combo Swing Away.
Handy compact device: Cricut EasyPress Mini heat press machines. It is very versatile and is featured in the highest-rated heat press reviews.
Adjustable and useful: for a machine with a number of attachments that can be used for different materials and projects, check on the CREWORKS 12x15 Inch Heat Press Machine.
For the needs of your home business: If you are looking for heat press machines that are reliable and versatile, the Fancierstudio Heat Press Digital 15 x 15 Sublimation Heat Press is a good choice.
Industrial-graded quality device: we recommend the PowerPress Industrial Heat Press. It's adjustable and can be used with a variety of materials.
A great choice for mugs: If you need heat press machines specifically for mugs, check on Cricut Mug Press.
Top pick for hat printing: If you are looking for a machine to create patterns on hats, check on Cricut Hat Press which is smaller than most heat presses but has excellent parameters.
Overall, the best heat press machines are those that are easy to use, versatile, and durable. Choose the perfect heat press machine that best suits your needs and budget to win the heat press game!
