How to Apply 3D TPU / Metallic Patches onto Football Shirts

How to Apply 3D TPU / Metallic Patches onto Football Shirts (Heat Press & Household Iron)

🌡️ Quick Reference Guide

Pressing Method Temperature (°C) Front Press (Tack) Inside-Out Press (Main Bond) Pressure Level
Professional Heat Press 135°C – 140°C 8 – 10 seconds 15 – 20 seconds Medium (3 bar)
Household Iron ~135°C – 140°C (Polyester) 10 – 12 seconds 25 seconds Firm (Avoid crushing)

🏭 Method 1: Professional Heat Press

  1. Set Machine Parameters: Set heat press strictly to 135°C – 140°C (Low temperature protects metallic luster and fine 3D molding).

  2. Pre-press the Jersey: Press shirt for 3 seconds with a Teflon sheet.

  3. Position TPU Patch: Position 3D TPU / Chromex badge in place.

  4. Step 1 — Light Front Tack (8–10 Seconds): Cover with a Teflon sheet and apply light-medium pressure for 8–10 seconds.

  5. Step 2 — Inside-Out Main Bond (15–20 Seconds): Turn jersey inside out. Cover back of patch with Teflon and press for 15–20 seconds.

  6. Cool Down: Let shirt cool completely flat. Do not touch 3D elements while plastic is warm.

🏠 Method 2: Household Iron

  1. Iron & Surface Prep: Set iron to Lowest Synthetic setting (~135°C). Steam OFF. Work on hard surface.

  2. Pre-iron Area: Iron target area for 3 seconds.

  3. Position & Cover: Place TPU patch and cover with parchment paper + a thin cotton cloth layer for heat cushioning.

  4. Step 1 — Front Tack (10–12 Seconds): Press straight down with moderate firm force (do not crush 3D relief).

  5. Step 2 — Inside-Out Press (25 Seconds): Flip shirt inside out, cover with parchment paper, and apply heavy downward force for 25 seconds.

  6. Cool Down: Allow 5 minutes cooling time before touching.

💡 Pro Tip: Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) badges feature high-gloss, metallic, or chrome finishes (like modern club crests). Excessive heat (>145°C) will permanently melt or dull the metallic gloss finish. Always rely on inside-out pressing!