At its core, heat transfer paper is a specially coated paper designed for one primary purpose: to facilitate the transfer of printed images, designs, or graphics onto various surfaces using heat and pressure. It's the key ingredient in a process known as heat transfer printing or sublimation printing.

The magic of heat transfer paper lies in its ability to release the ink it carries when subjected to heat. Here's a simplified overview of how the process works:

Printing: You start by printing your desired image or design onto the heat transfer paper. The paper's special coating allows it to hold the ink in place.

Transfer: Place the heat transfer paper, with the printed side facing down, onto the fabric or surface you want to decorate. This could be a t-shirt, tote bag, mousepad, or any other compatible material.

Heat Press: Use a heat press machine or iron to apply heat and pressure to the paper. The heat causes the ink to sublimate (change from a solid to a gas) and transfer from the paper to the fabric or surface below.

Peel: After the designated heat and pressure application time, you carefully peel off the heat transfer paper, leaving behind the printed design on the material.