Definition
A decorative design printed on special transfer paper that is applied to fabric (usually cotton T-shirts) using heat from an iron or heat press. Popular for personalizing clothing and making custom band tees, sports jerseys, and novelty shirts.
Example Usage
She used an iron-on transfer to add a glittery unicorn design to her plain white t-shirt.
Origin
Technology developed in the 1960s for commercial printing; DIY versions became popular in the 1980s–90s for home crafting.
Fun Fact
Iron-on transfers were a staple of 1980s and '90s fashion, used to create puffy paint designs and metallic graphics on casual wear.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
Related Terms
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