Learn how to make beautiful DIY tea towels using a simple image transfer technique. These dish towels make the perfect hostess gift or housewarming present, and you can customize the design with any graphics.
Before beginning, wash and iron the tea towels to make sure the image transfers will adhere smoothly.
Use editing software like Word, Photoshop, PowerPoint, or Canva to size your graphics to match the size of your towels.
Reverse your image (if necessary) by flipping it horizontally in the software. (You will be placing the image face-down on the towels for the transfer.) You especially don't want to skip this step if there are words on your design.
Print your design on the blank side of the transfer sheet with the highest quality or “photo” settings. Let the ink on the transfer sheet dry 30 minutes before ironing.
Trim around the edges of your graphic, using a craft knife for finer details, if needed.
Preheat the iron on the highest setting (cotton/linen) without water or steam. Then, place the image face-down on the tea towel. Begin ironing slowly in a circular motion for about 1 to 1.5 minutes. (Note: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the image transfer sheets, if it varies.)
After the image transfer has completely cooled (about 1-2 minutes), gently peel back the transfer backing paper. If the image sticks, try ironing again for 15-30 seconds in the trouble spots. Then, let the towel cool and try to peel again.
For a finishing touch, you can sew a ribbon or trim along the edge of the towel.
Notes
Wait 24 hours before washing the towels. Use cold water and mild detergent when laundering. Lay flat to dry or tumble dry low.If you own a heat press, you can also apply the transfer sheets at 350°-375°F for 20-25 seconds. Remove the paper backing after the towels have cooled completely.If your design covers a full transfer sheet, you may need to extend ironing times to 1.5-2 minutes.