Getting Started

• 1). Choose the type of badge you would like to create. The computer program you will use will depend on whether you want a simple badge with just your name, or if you want a more complicated badge with designs other than just the name.
  
  
• 2). Choose your software. Any visual editing software, from Paint to Photoshop, can be used. The only requirement is that the software allows you to flip your design to a mirror image.
  
  
• 3). Choose the object you want to customize. This will determine the type of transfer paper to use. For dark-colored objects, use a transfer paper specifically for dark objects (see Resources below). For light-colored objects, use a transfer paper specifically for light objects (see Resources below). If you are unsure which type your object is, test it by determining if black or white shows up better on the background. If black, then choose light object paper. If white, then choose dark object paper.
  
  

Creating and Printing the Badge

• 1). Begin designing your name badge. There is no specific design for name badges, but if you need some ideas, you can search Google Images for name badges (see Resources below).
  
  
• 2). Flip your image in your photo editing software so that it mirrors what you want the final product to look like. The transfer will be laid face down to iron it on, so it will appear on the object as a mirror image of what prints. If you are unsure if it is printed correctly, hold it up to a mirror. It should appear in the mirror the way you want it to appear on your object.
  
  
• 3). Check the size your object will be when printed. This can be done by selecting the Print Preview function in your software. If it is too big or too small on the paper, adjust the printed size by changing the settings in Page Setup. Once the size is satisfactory, you can print your badge.
  
  

Ironing on the Badge

• 1). Prepare your object by cleaning and drying it and ironing out any wrinkles from the fabric. If the fabric is not completely flat when you iron on the name badge, the badge will crack.
  
  
• 2). Trim off any excess paper around your badge. This is especially important if you are using dark object transfer paper, as the white background will transfer to your object.
  
  
• 3). Place the badge on the object exactly where you want it. Once in place, iron the badge on the heat setting specified with your particular paper. Iron at a moderate speed with light pressure.
  
  
• 4). Peel off the paper backing and enjoy your newly personalized object!