Monday, June 14, 2010

Manage your Inventory to Save Money

Many times small business owners will hear about inventory management and immediately equate that to keeping inventories at low levels to improve cash flow. The “Just in Time” inventory philosophy that many businesses subscribe to has been discussed and expanded upon over the years. While it is important to not carry an excess of inventory which can tie up a company’s cash flow - for the small business owner this essentially mean their own cash flow- it is equally important to buy inventory in the correct size lots in order to maximize efficiencies and buying power.

At TshirtSupplies many times we see customers who order product once a week or every ten days. While on the surface this may seem like a good cash flow strategy it leads to over spending on the cost of the paper and on the freight to get the product to the customer. In some cases, a customer will have an unexpected job which necessitates paying for expedited freight to get the transfer paper to their workshop in short order.

The preceding problem can be eliminated by taking a look at your previous spending pattern with your heat transfer paper supplier, hopefully Tshirtsupplies.com, and seeing just how often you are purchasing your heat transfer paper. For example, if you review your purchases and notice that you ordered 100 sheet of the Jet-Pro SofStretch on average three times per month for the past 3-months, you may want to consider ordering 300 sheets once a month. This way you pay freight and handling charges just once and you avoid any situation where an order needs to be expedited.

Inventory management is a key control area for both large and small businesses. Just as a company can have too much inventory which can eventually lead to cash flow nightmares, it can have too little inventory which can lead to higher freight costs and lost sales. For more small business tips look for our newsletter and see the coupon below which should help our customers who want to try to take advantage of this tip.

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Summer Craft Idea Using Heat Transfer Paper

Summer time is a great time to discover heat transfer paper crafts.On a hot summer day spend some cool time inside with this useful heat transfer paper product craft idea.

Personalized Camp Totes

Summer camp is right around the corner. Kids need a huge tote bag to carry all their things to and from camp every day. You can imagine how many things get lost or misplaced between campers. By using a simple computer program (power point, word, or graphic program), quality heat transfer paper and a large cotton tote bag you be able to customize your own personal camp tote to keep your camper more organized. You can choose to do this heat transfer paper project on your own or suggest it as a camp craft.

Supplies
  • Computer/Printer

  • Heat Transfer Paper

  • Cotton Tote

  • Heat Source (Iron or Press)

On your computer, design what you want to have on the tote. I would suggest that you somehow include the camper’s name, camp name, group name, or even photo, some type of identification so that totes are easier distinguish between campers. Then you can customize it with fun clip art.

Following the instructions on the heat transfer paper, print your pages on the printer. Cut out your designs and arrange them on the flat cotton tote. Following the instruction on the heat transfer paper for application and using the heat source, iron the design on the tote.

This heat transfer paper craft idea is one of many summer craft ideas using heat transfer paper. Heat transfer paper is fun and easy to use. Use this idea or create your own personalized summer time craft with a heat transfer product.

Linda Dunkelberger is a freelance writer creating heat transfer paper craft ideas for Tshirtsupplies.com. T-ShirtSupplies.com wants to prove to you that we are the best source for your Heat Transfer Paper and Transfer Product. We carry an extensive inventory. Check out us on the web at www.tshirtsupplies.com or on Facebook.

Friday, April 9, 2010

Commonly Asked Iron on Transfer Paper Questions

Here are the most commonly asked questions about Iron on Transfer Paper:

Q: Can I reuse my iron on transfer paper? I want to use it again or print another design on it. Is this possible?
A: No, you cannot reuse iron on transfer paper. The way this paper works is the heat of the iron melts the paper’s plastic lining, transferring the ink to the fabric. It’s a one-time deal. When done correctly, the plastic transfers from the paper to your t-shirt. Re-create the design and use another piece of iron on transfer paper for the project.

Q: Do I need to trim my iron on transfer paper before use?
A: Yes, you must trim it because any area that isn’t printed on will show up on your t-shirt as white. This isn’t so much of a problem for light colored shirts, but it’s absolutely necessary for dark garments. Trim your iron on transfer paper and you’ll achieve a much more professional result.

Q: How long is my iron on transfer paper good for? I bought it a while ago, can I still achieve the same results as I would with new paper?
A: All iron on transfer paper products have a shelf life, but most will perform as intended up to two years after the initial date of purchase. For more detailed information on your specific brand, consult the instruction sheet or contact the company you purchased it from.

Q: How many times can I wear and wash my t-shirt before it begins to fade?
A: Only a few iron on transfer papers exceed washing standards and few products can hold up to as many as 50 washes before fading. If you follow your transfer paper washing instructions, you can extend the life of your garment and keep your image bright and long lasting.

Q: What type of garment can I use my iron on transfer paper on?
A: Choose a garment that’s made out of 100% cotton or polyester blend fabric and you’ll achieve the best results.

Q: Is it safe to iron over the transferred area after the heat transfer is completed?
A: You may iron over the rest of your shirt or garment, but do NOT iron directly over the transferred area without covering it with a protective covering, pillowcase, or other means of protection. Be careful not to expose the area to high heat!

Always read instruction sheets and go over all details before you begin any project. If you do have questions, consult with an Iron On Transfer Paper specialist before you begin!

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Making Your Own T-Shirts is Easy With Iron On Transfer Paper


If you’ve looked at some of the graphic T-Shirts and basic dresses you see in stores nowadays and thought to yourself, “I could do better”, with the right supplies, you can. It’s easy and fun to make your own printed T’s. Iron on heat transfer paper is the easiest way to make your own unique t-shirt. You’ll be able to transfer original designs to decorate clothing and other fabrics to suit your own fashion tastes. And it’s easier then you think…

Things That You’ll Need: T-shirts are inexpensive—for a basic design, choose a light colored t-shirt. You’ll also need your computer, an iron, and iron on transfer paper compatible with your printer. The iron on transfer paper product you choose should be compatible with either an ink jet or laser printer, depending on which one you have.

Creating the Design: This is completely up to you. Use whatever computer program you’re most comfortable with and find images on the net or scan images into your computer. You can appropriate several images together or create a simple drawing—it’s up to you.

Printing and Ironing: Read and follow all directions and procedures for Iron on Transfer Paper for laser in order to correctly print your design. Once you’re done printing, carefully iron the design onto your t-shirt. It’s that easy!

Tips and Tricks: Remember, the first time you do it the result may not be perfect. There are different types of iron on transfer paper for different colors of t-shirts. Read all instructions carefully and purchase the appropriate transfer paper. Regardless of the color, your t-shirt should be a 100% cotton and tightly woven garment.

The sheen of your design is also something to take into consideration. Would you prefer a glossy or matte finish? Whichever you choose, trim the outline of the iron on transfer paper before application so no background outlines from your design are visible.

The possibilities of iron transfer paper are endless as the medium is so versatile. Experiment with t-shirts and then other projects and crafts. Your results will be excellent if you purchase high quality iron on transfer paper and follow all guidelines for use carefully.

Erica R. is a freelance writer for www.tshirtsupplies.com, a carrier of an extensive inventory of quality iron on heat transfer paper, printer supplies, and heat transfer press machines. Visit our website for more information about Transfer paper for laser provided by t-shirt supplies.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Heat Transfer Paper – Choosing the Right Product


Projects using heat transfer paper can turn out fabulous if the right product was used, or disastrous if it is not. Heat transfer papers vary with quality and capabilities. Choosing the right heat transfer paper for your project will give you the best results.

When planning your project and compiling your supplies be aware of two specific areas in order to get the best project results.

Color

First, make note of the media that you plan to transfer on. Is the item a light or dark t-shirt or sweatshirt? Is the color of your mousepad, coaster, puzzle or leather item light or dark? The heat transfer paper that you use will depend on whether the item is a light or dark colored item. The heat transfer paper is made specifically for dark or light colors for best results. For best results on t-shirts it is recommended that tight weave, 100% cotton or a cotton/poly blend be used. When considering color, think about whether you want the end result glossy. Choosing matt or glossy sheen heat transfer paper may alter your results. It is suggested that when using a dark color it is best to trim the heat transfer paper before applying it to avoid seeing the background outline.

Equipment

Second, make note of the type of printer equipment that will be used on the project. Are you using a laser or inkjet printer for printing the heat transfer? There are specific heat transfer paper products for inkjet use and for laser printer use. It is recommend that you follow this guideline and not use inkjet heat transfer paper in your laser printer. Both are make specifically for a certain type of printer and both include instructions that should be followed for proper use.

Heat transfer paper is an incredible medium to use. The possibilities for projects, crafts and even t-shirt businesses are endless. Be sure to purchase your heat transfer paper from a professional that supplies a quality heat transfer paper product and follow the guidelines for use. The outcome of your project depends on it.

Linda Dunkelberger is a freelance writer and editor. The article “Heat Transfer Paper – Choosing the Right Product for your Project” discusses the guidelines for color and equipment when choosing inkjet heat transfer paper for your next project.T-Shirt Supplies.com carries an extensive inventory of quality heat transfer paper, printer supplies and heat transfer press machines.

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Easy School Spirit Wear with Iron On Heat Transfers


Create fun and unique school spirit wear with iron on heat transfers. School clubs and special school groups are having fun creating their own school spirit wear using their imagination, a computer printer and a simple heat transfer product. This gives you the ability to design a special club t-shirt or item for your club or special school event in a matter of minutes at a fraction of the cost of customs items.

If time and budget are a factor for school spirit wear, then using iron on heat transfers is an easy solution. Iron on heat transfers are easy to use. This project can be done from start to finish is just a few minutes. Having the heat transfer product on hand saves you time, however, if you do not they are available for purchase with quick delivery times.

Materials

Simple materials needed are t-shirts, computer, iron and an iron on heat transfer product that works best with your computer printer. The heat transfer product should be chosen for either an ink jet or laser printer. For best results there are also iron on heat transfers for dark and light color t-shirts.

Design

Have your spirit wear logo or special design ready to go on the computer program on your choice. You can come up with this by scanning your logo or creating a new logo and script on your own. This is wear your imagination comes in.

Print and Iron On

Now that you have your spirit wear logo or design ready to print, use the instructions on the heat transfer product to make sure that you are printing correctly on the iron on heat transfers. One this is done, follow the instructions for ironing on t shirts. Use the heat transfer product manufacturer’s instructions for best results.

Using iron on heat transfers to create your custom school spirit wear will stand out and get the attention you want. It’s an easy project that needs little planning and quick turnaround. Have fun making your next school spirit wear project with a heat transfer product.

Linda Dunkelberger is a freelance writer and editor.“Easy School Spirit Wear with Iron On Heat Transfers” explains how quickly you can put together school spirit wear using iron on heat transfer product.T-shirtsupplies.com is a leader in the heat transfer product solution industry selling top of the line iron on heat transfer products including Laser & Inkjet Heat Transfer Paper, Specialty Papers, Heat Transfer Vinyl, Heat Transfer Foils and heat transfer press machine accessories at great prices since 2003.

Monday, December 14, 2009

Use Heat Transfer Paper for the Holidays to Create Unique Gifts



What gift do you get for Grandma or the favorite aunt or the nephew who lives across the country? What do you get for the person who already has everything? When some creativity and individuality goes into a gift, it will be special; especially if it is customized with family or friends’ photos and names. The use of heat transfer paper for the holidays to customize items can create many gifts at a reasonable cost to please almost everyone. One of a kind party favors for a holiday gathering can also be made by using heat transfer paper and other specialized transfer products with festive illustrations, photos and colors.


There are so many fun gifts that can be made using heat transfer paper for the holidays. T-shirts and sweatshirts with family or friend’s pictures emblazoned on the front are a wonderful present to give and receive. In addition to clothing, there are other gift options including mugs, paper cubes, coasters, window art, and bumper stickers. A puzzle to be assembled with a fantastic family photo would be an excellent gift, and could be assembled together at a family gathering. Perhaps multiple puzzles could be made with the photo and handed out as a gift to take home for each member of the family. What grandparent would not love to drink their morning coffee everyday from a mug with their grandchildren’s picture? Unwrapping gifts like these are sure to bring smiles to the recipient’s faces.


Having a holiday party? Be creative with party favors using heat transfer paper for the holidays. Maybe a themed, customized shirt or hat for the occasion, or something for guests to take home with the date of the special event. Perhaps a company holiday celebration with party favors with a company logo, or the group photo from the summer picnic! It could be a mug, a leather key chain or a bumper sticker. Be creative…be funny…be unique…send a message!


Making a gift or favor personal is what makes it special, unlike anything that can be purchased in a store…which hundreds of other people may have. Creativity and customization can make a gift very memorable and loved by any recipient.


Grace Enderlein is a freelance writer and editor.“Use Heat Transfer Paper for the Holidays to Create Unique Gifts” outlines the creative uses of transfer products made up of heat transfer paper for fun gifts.Tshirtsupplies.com supplies an extensive inventory of heat transfer products for the creation of one of a kind items.