I have figured out how to remove heat transfer vinyl from fabrics! Now if you make a mistake on your projects, you can actually fix it. I really think this is a product that every Cricut crafter should have in their craft room. Read on for more about the product as well as a detailed tutorial on how to use it!
How to Remove Heat Transfer Vinyl Video Tutorial
Want to see how to remove heat transfer vinyl? Just follow along with the video below.
Can’t watch the video or need more explanation? You can also see the written instructions below.
Vinyl Lift-Off
The product I am using to remove my HTV is Vinyl Lift-Off from AlbaChem. This product will remove vinyl letters and graphics that have been applied with heat to fabric surfaces. It literally works in just minutes and you will be ready to add your replacement HTV just as quickly.
How To Remove Heat Transfer Vinyl
Now that you have seen the product I am using, I am going to show you how to use it to fix those HTV mistakes. I will say first that you need to follow all package directions, wear protective gloves, and work in a well-ventilated area. You can see how to use this product in the video above or you can follow the instructions below!
Supplies Needed For Removing Heat Transfer Vinyl
- Vinyl Lift-Off
- Fabric with heat transfer vinyl applied
- Rag
- Q-tips
- Protective gloves
- Heat transfer vinyl to add once old is removed
Step 1: Gather Materials
Gather any materials where you have made a mistake when applying your heat transfer vinyl. I will note that this product works better on light-colored fabrics. You will want to put on your protective gloves before starting and work in a well-ventilated area.
Step 2: Apply Vinyl Lift-Off
Apply the Vinyl Lift-Off to the back of the piece you want to remove. Apply as little as possible dripping onto the surface and using a Q-tip to spread it around. Stretch your fabric to start loosening the HTV. I suggest putting an old rag under your fabric to catch any excess.
Step 3: Pull Off HTV
Pull off the HTV after a few minutes. It may come off in pieces. Apply more of the Vinyl Lift-Off to the back if needed. You can also add some to the front with a Q-tip if any adhesive residue remains after removal.
I used probably 7 drops total to remove this Mickey head, so it does not take much!
Note: I also used this on a tea towel. The HTV had been on this towel for over 6 months. The regular HTV removed just fine, however, the patterned version did stain my towel. It was also harder to remove. So, note that not all HTV products will be removed as successfully as others.
Step 4: Allow Fabric To Dry
Once your HTV is removed, allow your fabric to dry completely.
Step 5: Apply Replacement Vinyl
Then just use the same application methods as before to apply new HTV to your fabric. It will stick the same as when you were first applying it.
So, now you know how to fix all of those heat transfer vinyl mistakes. I, for one, hated making a mistake on an iron-on project because that always meant throwing away my shirt or other fabric surfaces. Not anymore! Vinyl Lift-Off to the rescue!
I hope this tutorial will help you save your projects as well. After all, we all make mistakes sometimes and it is nice to have something to fall back on to help you fix those inevitable goofs. Be sure to save this tutorial for how to remove heat transfer vinyl for when those mess-ups happen to you.
FAQs About How To Remove Heat Transfer Vinyl
If you have questions about how to remove heat transfer vinyl, I have answers for you! Please leave your question for me in the comments if you don’t see it already answered below!
Does Vinyl Lift-Off Not Need To Be Washed Off?
It says it does not according to the instructions and it worked fine!
Can You Use This Product With A Cotton/Polyester Blend?
Yes, you can!
Will It Work With A Color Fabric?
Yes, it will!
Can You Use Vinyl Lift-Off Store Bought Sports Jerseys?
I have tried it on store-bought things before with mixed results and ruined some things.
Does This Product Leave Residue Or An Odor?
It actually did not! I was surprised!
When You Washed The Towel Did The Stain Come Out?
No, it did not.
6 More Heat Transfer Vinyl Resources
Did you love learning about all how to remove heat transfer vinyl, and are looking for more heat transfer vinyl resources? Then check out the blog posts below!
- How To Use Iron On Vinyl (a.k.a., Heat Transfer Vinyl)
- What is HTV? What Materials Can You Use It On?
- HTV: Warm Peel vs Cool Peel
- Adding Heat Transfer Vinyl to Hats
- How to Apply HTV on Cardstock
- How to Use Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl
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