A 38 x 38 cm (approx. 15 x 15 inch) heat press is the “Goldilocks” of the garment printing world—it’s the most popular size because it’s large enough for full-sized T-shirt designs but compact enough for a home studio or small shop.
Whether you are looking to buy one or just trying to figure out how to use the one you have, here is a quick breakdown of what you need to know.
Why the 38 x 38 Size?
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Versatility: It easily handles Adult XL shirts, tote bags, and hoodies.
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Standard Platen: Most pre-cut heat transfer vinyl (HTV) and sublimation papers come in sizes that fit perfectly within this 38cm square.
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Power Requirements: Usually runs on standard household outlets (check if yours is 110V or 220V depending on your region).
Common Types of 38 x 38 Presses
| Feature | Clamshell | Swing-Away |
| Space Needed | Minimal; opens upward. | Significant; needs room to swing right. |
| Pressure | High (great for HTV). | Even (better for thick items like tiles). |
| Safety | Hands are closer to the heat. | Heat moves away from the workspace. |
| Best For | T-shirts and flat garments. | Thick items, wood, and ceramic. |
Pro-Tips for Success
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The “Paper Test”: Close the press on a piece of paper. If you can pull the paper out easily, your pressure is too low. You want a firm tug.
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Pre-Press: Always press your garment for 3–5 seconds before applying your design. This removes moisture and wrinkles that can ruin the adhesive.
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The Center Point: Most 38×38 presses have a slight “cold spot” at the very edges. Try to center your designs for the most consistent heat.
Standard Settings Reference
If you’re just getting started, here are the “ballpark” numbers for the most common materials:
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HTV (Standard): 150°C for 10–15 seconds.
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Sublimation (Polyester): 200°C for 45–60 seconds.
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Glitter Vinyl: 160°C for 15 seconds.
