What Materials Can You Print On Using A Heat Press?

A heat press machine is one of the most versatile tools in the printing industry. Whether you’re using DTF, sublimation, HTV, vinyl, or transfer paper, a heat press allows you to create high-quality customized products with strong, long-lasting prints. But many beginners often wonder: What materials can you actually print on using a heat press?
The good news is—a heat press works on many surfaces, as long as the material can handle heat and pressure. Below is a complete guide from Yaya Innovations to the most common and profitable materials you can print on.

1. Fabrics (T-Shirts, Hoodies, Polo Shirts, Jerseys)
Fabrics are the most popular materials for heat press printing.
Suitable printing methods: DTF, HTV, Vinyl, Sublimation, Transfer paper
Best fabric types:
• Cotton – works for DTF, vinyl, and HTV
• Polyester – perfect for sublimation
• Cotton–polyester blends – ideal for DTF
• Nylon – needs low-temperature vinyl
Common products:
• T-shirts
• Hoodies
• Sweatshirts
• Sports jerseys
• Uniforms
• Children’s clothing
2. Caps & Hats
Using a special cap heat press, you can print on curved surfaces.
Methods: Vinyl, HTV, DTF film patches
Common products:
• Baseball caps
• Bucket hats
• Uniform caps
3. Bags (School, Tote, Laptop, Canvas Bags)
Bags offer a high-profit printing opportunity.
Compatible with: DTF, HTV, Vinyl, Sublimation (polyester)
Materials you can print on:
• Cotton tote bags
• Canvas bags
• Polyester backpacks
• Leatherette pouch bags
4. Mugs, Bottles & Cups
Using a mug heat press or 3-in-1 / 5-in-1 combo machine, you can customize drinkware.
Best for: Sublimation
Works on:
• Ceramic mugs
• Stainless steel bottles (sublimation coated)
• Aluminum flasks (coated)
• Travel mugs
5. Plates
Plate printing requires a plate press attachment.
Best for: Sublimation
Common uses:
• Souvenir plates
• Award plates
• Decorative plates
6. Phone Cases
Heat presses also work perfectly for sublimation-coated phone cases.
Methods: Sublimation
Materials:
• Hard plastic PC cases
• Hybrid rubber/PU cases
• Aluminum insert cases
7. Mousepads
Mousepads are sublimation-friendly because they contain polyester.
Printing method: Sublimation
Common types:
• Gaming mousepads
• Office mousepads
• Custom branded giveaway mousepads
8. Puzzles & Photo Panels
Heat press machines print beautifully on coated puzzle boards and panels.
Methods: Sublimation
Materials:
• MDF sublimation boards
• Hardboard photo panels
• Cardboard puzzles
• Aluminum photo panels
9. Wooden Surfaces (Coated)
Pressed with sublimation or vinyl if the wood is treated.
Materials include:
• Sublimation-coated MDF
• Wooden plaques
• Wooden signs
• Coasters
10. Metal Surfaces (Coated)
Metals must be sublimation coated to receive ink.
Great for:
• Aluminum sheets
• Stainless steel bottles
• Metal plates
• Keyholders