Flip sequins add sparkle, texture and dimension to apparel and accessories. These designs are versatile, giving wearers power to change their apparel design by running their hand over the sequins to reveal its counterpart. A popular trend in children’s wear, the concept fulfills the need for expression and instant gratification. As eye-catching as a flip sequin design can be, it’s surprisingly easy to achieve the look. Flip sequin stock transfers come pre-designed and ready to apply – or, if you’re feeling extra crafty, you can design your own art using the two-sided sequin fabric of your choice.

Read on as Stephanie Briske, marketing content specialist at Stahls’ (asi/88984), shares a simple method for applying a flip sequin appliqué design using a heat press.

1. Choose compatible fabrics
Because you’ll be working with a heat press, it’s important to apply the decoration to 100% cotton or a cotton/polyester blend. Flip sequin transfers are thicker than traditional vinyl transfers, so you’ll want a heavier shirt or sweatshirt to hold the weight.

2. Size the platen
Flip sequins are typically geared toward children and women, which means you must be aware of platen size as it relates to the garment and the design. Stahls’ Stephanie Briske recommends an 11-inch-by-15-inch platen so you can easily print on smaller apparel without stretching or distorting the garment. A platen too small could lead to an uneven surface with seams running through the design.

3. Preheat your machine
Preheat your machine to 330 F/165 C. A temperature too low won’t bond the adhesive to the garment, and you risk the design falling off during wash or wear, while too much heat can scorch the fabric and leave behind the dreaded heat-press box. Place the garment on the machine and heat it for three seconds to release moisture and prep it for receiving.

4. Position your design with care
It’s crucial that the garment is evenly positioned on the lower platen of the heat press with the collar facing you. Grab the shoulder seams and pull toward you until the collar drops over the edge of the platen. Place the design in the center of the garment 3 to 3.5 inches from the collar for adults or 2 to 3 inches for youth. If you need help finding the center of the garment, fold the shirt in half. The crease will be your center point.

5. Set pressure and apply heat
Insert a 10-inch-by-10-inch heat-printing pillow inside the garment before loading to create a raised, even surface for printing. Place a kraft paper cover sheet over the design to reduce the amount of static electricity, and set the pressure of your machine to ensure a strong bond between the design and the garment. Briske recommends Medium #6 if using a Hotronix heat press. Apply heat for eight seconds, remove and enjoy your flip sequin garment.

Photos courtesy of Stahls’

Andy Vantrease is a contributing writer for Wearables.