How do you remove a print from a T-shirt?

There are various methods of removing prints from a T-shirt. The methods by which we can achieve this are the iron method, the dryer method. The steam station or dryer method, the freezer method and the chemical method. Any fabric is suitable for removing the print from, but care must be taken not to damage it. Synthetic fabrics react badly to chemicals and heat. Remember to use adhesive tape only on natural fabrics.

Iron-on removal of the print

This is a fairly common method, and is particularly effective for removing rubber prints applied through flex film. This type of print is susceptible to heat, making an iron ideal for removal.

Place the T-shirt preferably on an ironing board or table.
Place a dry towel inside the T-shirt underneath the print. This will protect the rest of the T-shirt.
Dampen a second towel with cold water and give it a good squeeze; you want it to be damp. Place it over the print. This creates a protective layer between the print and the iron so that the print does not stick to the surface of the iron.
Place the well heated iron on the damp towel and press lightly, the print must be properly heated.

When you feel that the damp towel is dry, pull it off and try to remove the print with your fingers or scrape it off with a knife.

Removing the print with a hair dryer or steamer

This method works well for small prints or lettering, place a cloth inside the T-shirt on the print area, do the same on the outside of the T-shirt. Use a hair dryer or steamer on maximum heat to heat up the print area. Then remove the print with your fingers or a knife.

How do I remove the print using a freezer?

The safest way to remove the print is to put the T-shirt in the freezer, this is the least invasive and safest method of removing the print. The freezer makes the print crisp and easy to remove.

Fold the t-shirt so that the print is on top and place it in the freezer.
When 8 hours have passed since the T-shirt has been in the freezer, take it out and remove it, the print will easily crack and come away from the fabric.

Chemical method

There are specialist products for removing prints from fabrics, these are available from chemists. If you do not have such a product, you can also deal with isopropyl alcohol, nail polish remover (with acetone) or glue remover.

Wash the T-shirt at a high temperature, this will help to warm up and gently stretch the print.
Test the chemical on a small piece of the T-shirt, if the chemical does not leave a mark on the T-shirt and does not damage it, you are ready to go!
Apply the chemical to a clean cloth and wipe the print thoroughly to saturate it.
Using a knife, try to remove the print.
If traces of glue remain, use the same remover to remove them.
Wash the T-shirt again afterwards.

Summary

There are several methods for removing prints from T-shirts, such as using an iron, dryer, freezer or chemicals. Each method has its own advantages and is suitable for different types of prints and fabrics. The iron method is popular and effective for heat transfer prints, while the freezer is safe for any fabric, especially delicate fabrics. However, care must be taken not to damage the fabric, especially synthetic fabrics (such as polyester), which can react badly to heat and chemicals.