Article: How to Press a Dual Sided Cotton Shirt with VersiFlex

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Feb 9, 2026

How to Press a Dual Sided Cotton Shirt with VersiFlex

Pressing a dual sided cotton shirt with VersiFlex is easier than it sounds when you follow the right order and heat press setup. The key is to press one side at a time, protect the first design while pressing the second, and use firm pressure with consistent heat. With proper alignment and a few simple tools, you can create professional front and back designs on cotton shirts without pretreatment or extra coatings.

If you are new to VersiFlex or heat pressing apparel, this guide will walk you through each step in a calm, beginner friendly way so you can press with confidence.

What Is VersiFlex and Why It Works on Cotton

VersiFlex is a digital decorating system designed to transfer full color designs onto cotton and other porous materials. Unlike sublimation, VersiFlex does not require polyester or special coatings. This makes it a great option for cotton shirts, tote bags, and other everyday apparel.

VersiFlex transfers sit on top of the fabric rather than dyeing into it, which means pressure and heat consistency matter. When pressing dual sided shirts, the goal is to apply each design cleanly without reheating or damaging the other side.

Using a quality press like the ones in the Craft Express heat press collection makes a big difference, especially when working with layered garments.

Supplies You Need Before You Start

Before pressing a dual sided cotton shirt, gather everything first so you can move smoothly from one press to the next.

You will need:

A cotton shirt (pre washed is recommended)
Printed VersiFlex transfers
A heat press
Blowout or protective paper
Heat resistant tape
A pressing pillow, foam pad, or folded towel

Having a pressing pillow ready is especially important. It helps avoid pressure marks and protects the first design while pressing the second side.

Step by Step: How to Press a Dual Sided Cotton Shirt with VersiFlex

Step 1: Pre Press the Shirt

Lay the shirt flat on the heat press with the front facing up. Pre press for about 5 to 10 seconds using light pressure.

This step:

Removes moisture from the cotton
Flattens seams and wrinkles
Helps the transfer adhere evenly

Do not skip this step. Cotton holds moisture, and trapped moisture can affect color and adhesion.

Step 2: Press the First Side of the Shirt

Choose which side to press first. Many crafters start with the back design because it is often larger and easier to center.

Place your VersiFlex transfer face down on the shirt. Secure it with heat resistant tape so it does not shift.

Recommended pressing settings (always test first):

Temperature: about 375°F
Time: about 30 seconds
Pressure: very high and firm

Once pressing is complete, peel the transfer hot and smooth. Set the shirt aside for a moment before moving on.

Step 3: Prepare for the Second Side

This is the most important part of pressing a dual sided cotton shirt.

Flip the shirt over so the unpressed side is facing up. Insert a pressing pillow, foam pad, or folded towel inside the shirt directly behind the area you will press.

This does two things:

Lifts the second pressing area above seams and collars
Protects the first design from heat and pressure

Cover the finished design inside the shirt with blowout paper for extra protection.

Step 4: Press the Second Side

Align your second VersiFlex transfer on the shirt and secure it with heat resistant tape.

Use the same settings as before:

Temperature: about 375°F
Time: about 30 seconds
Pressure: very high

Press firmly and evenly. Once complete, peel the transfer hot.

If needed, allow the shirt to cool fully before handling to avoid stretching the fabric while warm.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Re Pressing the First Design

Avoid pressing directly on the first design again. This can cause unwanted texture or dulling. Always use a pillow or pad to raise the pressing surface.

Uneven Pressure

Dual sided shirts have seams, collars, and sleeves that can interfere with pressure. Using a pressing pillow helps create a flat surface so your transfer bonds evenly.

Skipping Test Presses

Not all cotton shirts are the same weight or weave. Always test on a scrap or sample shirt before pressing your final project.

Best Cotton Shirts for Dual Sided VersiFlex Projects

For best results, choose:

Smooth cotton or cotton rich blends
Medium weight fabrics
Shirts with minimal texture

Avoid:

Very thin or stretchy cotton
Heavy seams in the pressing area
Shirts with chemical finishes or coatings

You can explore compatible apparel options in the Craft Express blanks and apparel section to find shirts that press beautifully with VersiFlex.

Helpful Tools That Make Dual Sided Pressing Easier

A few small tools can make a big difference:

Pressing pillows for seam protection
Heat resistant tape for alignment
Blowout paper to prevent ink transfer

Many of these essentials can be found in the Craft Express heat press accessories collection and are especially helpful for multi step projects like dual sided shirts.

Care Instructions for VersiFlex Cotton Shirts

Once pressed, let the shirt rest for at least 24 hours before washing.

For best longevity:

Wash inside out
Use cold or warm water
Avoid bleach
Tumble dry low or hang dry

Following proper care instructions helps keep your designs looking vibrant and smooth.

Final Thoughts

Pressing a dual sided cotton shirt with VersiFlex is all about preparation, protection, and pressure. By pressing one side at a time, using a pressing pillow, and sticking to consistent heat settings, you can achieve professional results even as a beginner.

Take your time, test when needed, and trust the process. With practice, dual sided VersiFlex shirts become a reliable and rewarding project.

FAQ: Dual Sided VersiFlex Shirts

Can I press both sides at once?
No. VersiFlex designs should be pressed one side at a time to ensure proper pressure and adhesion.

Do I need pretreatment for cotton?
No. VersiFlex is designed to work on cotton without pretreatment.

Should I let the shirt cool between presses?
It helps to let the shirt cool briefly so the fabric relaxes before pressing the second side.

What if my second design looks uneven?
Check pressure and make sure a pressing pillow is lifting the shirt above seams and collars.

Written by meghan Craft Express