Transfer tape for vinyl is an essential tool for any serious vinyl enthusiast. It’s the only way to ensure that your artwork will be transferred cleanly and accurately onto your record, without damaging it in the process.
Choosing the best transfer tape for vinyl is important. There are many different varieties of tapes to choose from, but not all will work with your project. Some tapes also require heat activation which means they may not be suitable for outdoor use.
We’ll talk about a variety of tapes that you can use for whatever you need.
YRYM HT Clear
TapeManBlue High Tack
Cricut (2002363)
Below Are the Top Ten Best Transfer Tape for Vinyl
If you’re looking for a hard and durable material that can be applied to any surface, vinyl is the way to go. Listed below you will find the best transfer tape for vinyl to help you with your vinyl projects:
1. YRYM HT Clear Transfer Tape For Vinyl
YRYM HT Clear Transfer Tape For Vinyl 12 inch roll is the perfect alignment paper for your projects. It won’t damage your project and offers 1/2” see-through red grid lines making it easy to measure your vinyl.
It also doesn’t leave any sticky residue on vinyl and the medium tack transfer tape lets you easily use this versatile transfer tape for vinyl lettering without too much trouble.
The clear red grid helps with measurement so that you don’t waste material when cutting outstrip lengths.
Depending on the material you’re transferring to, you can use this best transfer tape for vinyl on a variety of different surfaces including glass and ceramics, paper and cardstock, plastic, and metal.
And whether you’re working on smaller projects or larger ones, this vinyl transfer tape roll is so easy to use that even beginners will be able to figure out how without any fuss.
In addition, this clear transfer paper tape roll is also tear-resistant so you won’t have to worry about it tearing and getting stuck in your machine.
Highlighted Features:
- Clear see-through red grid lines
- Medium tack for easy application
- Doesn’t leave any sticky residue
- Measuring vinyl is easier with a red grid
- Tear-resistant
- Can be used for many different surfaces
2. Cricut Vinyl Transfer Tape (2002363)
The Cricut Vinyl Transfer Tape is the perfect product for the user who wants to transfer their vinyl onto a variety of surfaces.
The light-printed grid will ease the process of aligning the design precisely and also makes it easier to avoid air bubbles or unwanted cuts during installation.
It’s essential to be knowledgeable about different types of these tapes, what they’re good for and where you can find them online.
A roll contains 12 inches of tape by 48 feet in width. The standard grip type is meant to keep pressure on the adhesive during application.
To use this tape, cut the appropriate size of the best transfer tape for vinyl Cricut and then remove the exposed part that’s sticky.
Next, place your vinyl image on a flat surface and apply pressure using something like a knife or credit card.
Once it has adhered properly, you can start to remove the vinyl transfer paper tape. This should be done at a 90-degree angle and slowly enough to avoid peeling up any of your vinyl designs.
Highlighted Features:
- The light-print grid helps align design precisely
- 12 in length by 48 ft width
- Grip type with a standard pressure for installation
- Comes in a roll with 12 in by 48 ft in width
- Branded with Cricut logo for authenticity
3. TapeManBlue High Tack Vinyl Transfer Tape
TapeManBlue High Tack Vinyl Transfer Tape is the best-selling, high-quality product for anyone looking to transfer their vinyl lettering or decal from paper to surface.
This is a multi-use high-tack transfer tape that is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
The 12-inch width makes this high-tack vinyl transfer tape easy to work with, and the 300-foot long roll means that you have plenty of material for your projects.
This high-tack transfer tape sticks to many surfaces so you can use it with all kinds of lettering materials.
American-made and professional quality, this high-tack best transfer tape for vinyl offers a smooth application process.
Simply lay the adhesive side face down on the surface, place your paper decal or graphic facedown onto the adhesive and burnish the surface by rubbing the back of the decal with a squeegee.
Once that is completed, simply peel the top clear layer away from your substrate and you are left with a crystal-clear vinyl graphic that is now affixed to your surface.
The clear liner on this vinyl application tape also means that it is possible to see exactly where the decal or graphic is being applied which ensures a perfect outcome.
Highlighted Features:
- Very durable and resistant to the elements
- Was made in America with professional quality
- Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use
- 12-inch width and 300-foot long roll
- Sticks to many surfaces for a variety of applications
4. Dysania 12 x 70 Transfer Tape for Vinyl
The Dysania 12 x70 Transfer Tape For Vinyl is an economical option that provides excellent coverage for most any vinyl crafting needs you have without breaking the budget.
The 1/2” orange grid lines allow for easy cutting and the high-quality paper backing is easier to tear than other less expensive tapes.
The best transfer paper comes on a roll of 70 feet. That’s more than enough for all of your crafting needs.
This easy-to-handle vinyl transfer paper tape roll has one bonus scraper included, which saves waste when tearing your product to size without adding the additional expense of buying separate tools.
The specially coated paper makes the best transfer tape for vinyl bondable but not too sticky meaning it will peel up your design or sticker with minimal effort and make sure adhesive overlaps are minimized when applying to surfaces.
The wide applications ensure this item can handle just about all of your project’s needs at a fraction of what in-house services would run you.
Highlighted Features:
- Easy tearable paper backing
- Convenient roll of 70 feet long
- Comes with scraper included
- Bondable but not sticky
- Extensive applications
5. HTVRONT Vinyl Reviews Transfer Tape
The medium tack HTVRONT Vinyl Reviews Transfer Tape offers excellent quality medium tack adhesive tape perfect for your personal crafting needs.
It can work with your glitter vinyl Cricut, silhouette, and more and is compatible with most vinyl roll cutters.
The tape comes on a roll of 6 inches wide by 50 feet long. It has an easy-to-use release liner and is available in clear color for invisible application.
Comes with 1/2” red grid lines on the backing paper, making it easy to ensure precise alignment for your project.
It is very convenient to use, making your project smooth and accurate every single time.
Designed with the user in mind and made of only the best materials, this tape will make sure to handle and complete any craft with ease. Simply cut your design, wet it, and then apply the tape to your desired surface.
The best transfer tape for vinyl is one that is thick enough to not damage vinyl, but thin enough to remove from vinyl easily. The grid helps keep cuts precise when lining up for printing.
Highlighted Features:
- High-quality medium tack adhesive tape
- Clear color for the invisible application
- Comes on a roll of 6 inches wide by 50 feet long
- Simple release liner for most vinyl rolls cutters
- Gridlines to help you align your projects
6. FRISCO CRAFT C 370, Frisco Transfer Tape For Vinyl
Everyone has that one project that they need transfer tape to complete. Whether you’re putting up transfer tape for vinyl decals, restoring old signs to their original beauty, or anything in between.
The Frisco Transfer Tape For Vinyl product arrives in a 50-foot long roll that brings with it the versatility needed for any project big or small.
Not only can this vinyl transfer paper tape be applied around shiny surfaces but also matte ones.
You get an easy one-sided application without the use of release backing so this material is also workable indoors and outdoors. This clear transfer paper lays flat material transfers onto the object with ease.
This 12″x50 FT adhesive vinyl specialist will have your next DIY task done in no time. Turbocharge your DIYs by adding your own designs and get professional results. Easily transfer to glass, ceramics, windows, and walls.
Vinyl transfer paper tape can be used to protect surfaces in a variety of ways. It helps when removing the vinyl from its transfer paper, making it easier to handle.
Highlighted Features:
- Available in a 50-foot roll, so it’s versatile
- Easily applied to glass, ceramics, and walls
- Used for both matte and shiny surfaces
- 12″x50 FT adhesive vinyl provides quick DIY relief
- The simple application works indoors and outdoors
7. Craftopia Best Transfer Tape For Holographic Vinyl, CR-TRNSFTP
Craftopia Best Transfer Tape For Holographic Vinyl is a clear, red grid adhesive. The application of this specialty glue works on a variety of surfaces and the material is durable.
The clear vinyl transfer paper tape works well with paper and other materials. Whether you own a Silhouette Cameo, Portrait, or Portable Vinyl Cutter, this product will work perfectly.
The material comes in a roll that is 8 feet long and it is compatible with all types of indoor/outdoor adhesive vinyl. You’ll be able to use the tape with strings, rhinestones, and sparkles.
To get started working on your project, separate the vinyl from its paper backing. Position it in the area where you would like to apply it and remove the liner from the adhesive.
Next, let’s turn over the material and smooth out any air bubbles that might be present beneath the vinyl.
Now that you have your material in place, take a look at the protective paper from Craftopia’s vinyl transfer paper tape and remove it from its liner.
Highlighted Features:
- Clear, red grid adhesive
- Works on a variety of surfaces
- Paper and other materials compatible
- Silhouette Cameo, Portrait, Portable Vinyl Cutter compatible
- 12 inch and 8-foot long roll
8. Vinyl Ease Paper Transfer Tape
The Vinyl Ease Paper Transfer Tape is a decorative paper that’s easy to use and amazing material for creative projects.
The vinyl transfer paper tape lasts through several designs before needing replacement. It can be used for both wet and dry applications.
The United States makes this product 12 x 4 x 4 inches and 100 feet roll. Worked with Cricut vinyl, Silhouette, Xyron, Craft Robo, Quickutz, Inspirations, Graphtec, Brother Scan & Cut.
The tape does NOT work with heat-transfer vinyl or any laser cutter/engraver. It comes in a convenient roll form that enables it to be cut to the size you require and then wrapped around your project as required.
This vinyl transfer paper tape is opaque paper, Easy to use, and lays flat so it can easily move your design onto ceramics, metal, glass, plastic, and even walls.
The best transfer tape for vinyl makes it easier than ever to preserve patterns and designs on windows, walls, and ceramics with 100% accuracy instead of having to rely on expensive tools like a laser cutter or engraver.
Highlighted Features:
- Has a 12 x 4 x 4 inches and 100 feet roll
- Paper with opacity, easy to use
- 100% accuracy instead of expensive tools
- Made in the United States
- It can be used both wet and dry
9. Cricut Vinyl Not Sticking to Transfer Tape (2007375)
Cricut Vinyl Not Sticking to Transfer Tape is a safe and simple way to protect a variety of surfaces in your home. Easy-to-use, self-adhesive sheets protect your surfaces while you cut and weed vinyl.
It has an assorted color that makes for easy transfer and application. This Cricut transfer tape for vinyl is 5.5 inches x 48-inch roll and can be used for a variety of different projects, including creating custom covers, labels, and more.
It is made specifically for use with Cricut machines and can also be used as a general-purpose adhesive sheet.
This product ensures your vinyl sticks to your application surface with minimal slippage, so you have the perfect cut every time.
This vinyl transfer paper tape is also easy to apply, so you can easily move your vinyl from your machine to a variety of surfaces without the need to struggle. Also designed for projects that use Shimmer vinyl, it’s ideal for a variety of projects.
Highlighted Features:
- The product is safe and simple
- This product has minimal vinyl slippage
- Easy to transfer and apply in assorted colors
- 5.5 inches x 48-inch roll
10. Prime Vinyl Clear Transfer Paper Tape for Vinyl
The Prime Vinyl Clear Transfer Paper Tape for Vinyl transfer paper roll can easily be cut to any size you require and measures 30 feet long by 6 inches wide.
This transfer paper is not suitable for heavy things such as vinyl but will work with Cricut Joy transfer tape vinyl, Oracal transfer tape 651’s vinyl, and more.
It has a 1″ square grid which makes it easy when using the clear vinyl transfer paper tape. Actually, Oracal tape is designed for use with Oracal 651 vinyl.
Easy to use red alignment grid on this product makes it much easier when transferring from paper to surface or vice versa. It will not leave any sticky residue on your project either.
Unlike regular transfer papers, clear vinyl transfer paper tape does not tear easily which means you won’t have your delicate projects torn apart in an attempt to get them off the backing paper.
It’s perfect for those who want to create decals, stickers, labels, and other kinds of DIY projects. Customers can reuse this tape for multiple projects.
Highlighted Features:
- Compatible with many types of vinyl
- Doesn’t leave any residue on the project
- Transfer paper is easier and less frustrating
- Perfect for decals, stickers, and labels
- Reusable for multiple projects
These are the 10 best transfer tape for vinyl you can buy online. Due to the adhesive tape, you can be sure that your design will not smudge or slip.
Take your time and find the design that you like best. So, when selecting one, what should you look for?
How to Choose the Best Transfer Tape for Vinyl?
Transfer tape is one of those supplies that you never want to run out of, so it’s important to know what types are available, what they’re good for, and where you can buy the best vinyl transfer tape online. Let’s take a look following points:
Versatility
The best transfer tape for vinyl that you purchase should be versatile. It should work on different application surfaces and transfer well between them without tearing or losing its stickiness.
Opacity
The transfer paper you purchase should have a clear vinyl transfer paper tape surface with no difference in color.
This gives you the ability to judge precise measurements and shapes, allowing for accurate cuts.
Tack Strength
Tack strength refers to the transfer tape’s ability to stick without sliding. The best transfer tape for vinyl needs to have a stronghold on your design, staying in place even when you’re moving it from one surface to another.
Strong grip tape is best for vinyl projects, as it reduces the risk of tearing.
Paper Dimensions
The best transfer paper you buy should be wide enough to transfer your vinyl design onto multiple surfaces without the need for unrolling the transfer paper over and over again.
Gridlines
The best transfer tape for vinyl should have grid lines on it. The visibility of these lines will help you line up your transfer with the transfer paper without taking too much time or having to use guesswork.
Washability
The transfer paper for vinyl you buy should be able to be scrubbed and washed without losing its stickiness.
Washability also allows the transfer paper to work on a variety of surfaces, including ceramic and glass.
Time of Transfer
The transfer paper for vinyl you purchase should transfer fast and well. The transfer process shouldn’t take too long, cause any damage to your design or leave behind an adhesive after transfer.
Colors
The transfer paper you buy should transfer cleanly and not affect the color of your design.
Make sure that the transfer paper doesn’t rub off on your hands or smudge the vinyl before transfer.
Size and Quantity
The transfer paper you buy should come in a size that fits your project needs while not being wasteful.
It shouldn’t only be enough for one transfer either if it’s too small, or too big if it requires multiple uses of transfer paper.
Price
Finally, transfer paper for vinyl should come at a price point that falls below what you’re willing to pay. Cheap transfer paper often transfers poorly which will waste your time and money.
Once you’ve considered these buying factors, you’re ready to purchase transfer paper.
Now that you know how to choose the best transfer tape for vinyl, make sure you select one that fits all of your needs.
Additional Information on Vinyl Transfer Tape
If you want to perfect the use of your vinyl product, you need to know everything about transfer paper. Therefore, keep these additional facts in mind when choosing one:
Transfer Paper Test
Before using transfer paper on any surface for the first time, it’s a good idea to test its stickiness. Do this by applying transfer paper for vinyl to an old surface that you don’t mind ruining.
Once applied, pull up on the transfer paper quickly to see if it causes any damage to this test surface. If no damage is caused, the transfer paper is ready for use.
Applied Pressure
The transfer paper should be applied with pressure. To do this, you can use a transfer press or heat press.
If transfer paper is applied with no pressure, the transfer may not transfer completely.
Grid or No Grid
Some transfer paper is made with gridlines while some have no visible lines on it. Gridlines are helpful when transferring vinyl, but transfer paper without gridlines works just as well.
Extra Adhesive
One way to make sure your transfer comes out perfect is by purchasing transfer tape with extra adhesive.
This transfer paper sticks to your transfer paper better, ensuring that transfer is done well even if the best transfer paper isn’t applied perfectly.
Transfer Adhesive Remover
For transfer paper that doesn’t come with a transfer adhesive remover, it’s a good idea to purchase a transfer adhesive remover. This will help the transfer paper work well and not damage your vinyl design in any way.
Types of Transfer Tape
There are two common types of transfer tape that are used by most people:
1. Tape of Transfer Paper
This type of transfer paper is made with paper that comes on a roll. The paper tape can be used on many surfaces, especially for projects with large quantities of vinyl.
2. Clear Tape or Transparent Transfer Paper
Clear vinyl transfer paper is made with plastic and can be found in a variety of sizes.
This type of transfer tape sticks to vinyl exceptionally well and comes in several thicknesses.
Other Types of Transfer Tape:
There are many different types of transfer tapes and each one is meant for a certain type of project.
i) Heat Transfer Vinyl Tape
Heat transfers are great for making iron-on patches that you intend to heat press onto your product.
They can be used on fabrics, mesh, and leather. However, heat transfers should never be applied to paper because they will rip it apart.
ii) Cold Transfer Tape
Cold transfers are typically used on paper because they don’t require heat in order to be transferred.
These can also be applied to mesh and fabrics, but not leather or vinyl.
iii) Static Cling Transfer Tape
Static cling transfer tapes have a static charge that attracts your design to them. This type of transfer paper is best for use on glass or metal.
How to Use Vinyl Transfer Tape?
There are a few steps to using the best transfer tape for vinyl products. Follow these steps on how to use transfer tape with vinyl cleanly and easily:
Step 01: Create the Design
The first step is designing your vinyl. Once you’ve chosen the design to be used, you need to create it on a Windows or Mac computer using printable vinyl sheets.
Step 02: Loading, Cutting, and Weeding
Using printable vinyl sheets and transfer paper, load the best transfer paper and cutting machine.
Cut and weed your product to make sure that any excess material is removed from around the design.
Step 03: Vinyl Transfer Tape Cutting
The third step is cutting the vinyl transfer tape to size. You can do this using scissors or a craft knife.
Make sure the design is centered on the tape and remember to cut a few extra inches around all sides.
Step 04: Designing the Tape
The next step is designing the transfer paper. The design can be created using a hot press or a transfer paper press.
If there is no grid or lines on the transfer paper, it will be easy for beginners to create a design.
Step 05: Peel Away Transfer Tape Adhesive
When you’re ready to apply the transfer paper, peel away a section of the clear expressions vinyl transfer tape adhesive.
Begin by slowly peeling away one side while being careful not to damage your design.
Then apply it to your product and press down slowly with a hot press or a transfer paper press. If there is no grid, make sure the entire design is centered.
Step 06: Remove Transfer Tape
When you’re ready to remove the transfer tape, gently peel it away from your product.
Slowly pull up on the sides of the transfer paper while keeping an eye on your design. Peel until the entire product is lifted off the back of the transfer tape.
How to Get Vinyl off Transfer Tape?
Transfer tape works well to stick to the vinyl and make sure your design is not marred by rough surfaces. However, sometimes the design can stick too well to the transfer paper.
If this happens, you can use a few different methods to get the vinyl off of the transfer paper without damaging it in any way.
1. Use Scraper Tool
The first method is using a scraper tool. A scraper tool has rounded blades and can be found in the jewelry section of most craft stores.
Once you’ve used your scraper, carefully scrape across the back of the vinyl’s design until it’s completely free of the transfer tape.
2. Use a Heat Gun
You can also use a heat gun to get the vinyl off of the transfer tape. Set your heat gun on high and hold it 2 inches away from your product.
Make sure you turn your product so all parts come into contact with the hot air.
Then, carefully glide across the design’s back until it has been separated from the transfer paper.
3. Use a Hair Dryer
A third method is using a hairdryer. Set your hair dryer on high and hold it 2 inches away from your product. Make sure you turn your product so all parts come into contact with the hot air.
Then, carefully glide across the design’s back until it has been separated from the transfer tape.
What is The Purpose of Vinyl Transfer Tape?
There are many advantages to using vinyl transfer tape. Transfer tapes make it easier to protect your product and ensure that your design sticks well without marring the surface or moving around.
i) Protection
The tapes you use for the transfer are helpful in protecting your product while you are working on it.
Transfer papers ensure that the product is not damaged while cutting or applying the vinyl onto a different surface. You might prefer to use a portable vinyl cutter to get a smooth cut.
ii) Precision
When using transfer tape, the design will always be cut more precisely. This ensures that there are no jagged edges or unwanted bubbles left behind.
iii) Stability
They provide a sturdy surface for your design to stick to. This means that the vinyl will not shift around while you apply it and will remain securely in place once the transfer paper is removed.
iv) Convenience
The tapes used for transfer are very easy to use. They can be transferred from surface to surface without any trouble.
Transfer tapes save you from wasting vinyl and allow you to easily create a design with no wrinkles or bubbles.
v) Removes Easily
One of the best things about transfer papers is that they are easy to remove. All you have to do is wait for it to fully dry and then peel it away from your product.
This means that the design doesn’t have to be damaged in order for you to remove the transfer tape.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are some common questions that people may have about transfer tapes:
What is The Best Time to Use Adhesive Vinyl?
Generally, the best time to use adhesive vinyl is when you want a design that is going to last a long time without fading or cracking.
When using adhesive vinyl on a product, it will be left with a smooth and clean-cut appearance once it has been peeled away from the transfer tape.
Can I Apply Adhesive Vinyl to T-Shirts?
Yes. There are many different types of products that you can apply adhesive vinyl to including t-shirts, mugs, and helmets.
What Tape Should I Use to Transfer The Adhesive?
When it comes to transferring tapes, you have a few options. Clear tape is the most common type of tape used for transferring adhesive vinyl and can be purchased here.
Clear poly film is best for smaller designs or detailed designs that need a smooth surface to stick to.
It’s also recommended for people who are just starting out with using transfer papers.
How Easy Is Vinyl to Transfer With Tape?
Transfer papers make it very easy to apply your design. All you have to do is peel the tape’s backing away from the right transfer tape and then place it on your product.
Make sure that you are careful not to leave any air bubbles behind while applying the vinyl because it will be nearly impossible for you to remove them once they’re stuck in place.
Does Vinyl Require Clear Transfer Tape?
Yes. Clear transfer tapes work best when it comes to applying vinyl to a product because they ensure that your design is protected and looks its best before you remove them from the surface.
Do I Need Transfer Tape for Iron on Vinyl?
Yes. Transfer tape is required for you to apply your design to the product. The best transfer tape for vinyl will ensure that your vinyl sticks to the surface and doesn’t bunch up or get peeled away while it’s being applied.
How to Remove Vinyl from Cricut Transfer Tape?
One of the best things about transfer materials is that they can be removed easily. All you have to do is wait for it to dry and then slowly peel away your design.
Transfer papers make it very easy to work with vinyl without damaging or wrinkling up your design.
How to Transfer Vinyl Without Transfer Tape?
There are a few vinyl transfer tape alternatives, but they’re all very difficult to use. When you don’t have transfer paper on hand, here are some alternatives that you can try out:
Double-Sided Tape – Double-sided tape is not the best option because it tends to fall off of your product and leave behind a sticky residue.
Egg Carton – Using an empty egg carton might seem like a good idea, but the yolk will make your design wrinkle up and cause it to become damaged.
Using Your Fingers – It might sound crazy, but you can definitely use your fingers to apply your vinyl. However, it’s very difficult to keep the design perfectly applied without any air bubbles or wrinkles.
Conclusion
When it comes to transferring vinyl, transfer tapes are the best way to do it. That’s why we created this blog post to help you find and buy the right type of tape for your design.
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s a transfer paper out there that can help you with your vinyl. Bulk transfer tape is great for large projects, while regular transfer tape is good for small projects.