Customizing can koozies and other beverage holders is a fun, easy way to add personality to events, promote your brand, or create thoughtful gifts. One of the most popular materials for can koozies is neoprene, a type of synthetic rubber that’s flexible, durable, and often used in insulated drink holders.

In this blog, we’re highlighting three popular ways to decorate neoprene koozies—using HTV (heat transfer vinyl), sublimation, and Supacolor transfers. All three methods produce great results, but the materials and application techniques differ slightly.

Method 1: HTV (Heat Transfer Vinyl)

When it comes to applying HTV to neoprene, ThermoFlex® Turbo Low Temp is a fantastic option. It adheres beautifully and requires only a few seconds of pressing time, making it ideal for quick custom projects.

 Pressing Instructions:

• Temperature: 280°F
  
  
• Time: 5 seconds
  
  
• Pressure: Medium, even pressure
  
  
• Peel: Warm
  
  

Since neoprene koozies won’t go through a wash cycle like clothing, you only need enough heat and pressure for the vinyl to tack down. This short press time makes it fast and efficient—perfect for batch production!

Method 2: Sublimation

If you’re looking for full-color, vibrant designs with no feel on the surface, sublimation is the way to go. Sublimation dyes the surface of the neoprene directly, so there’s no added texture like vinyl. This method works for all shapes and sizes of beverage holder sublimation blanks.

 Pressing Instructions:

• Temperature: 390°F
  
  
• Time: 40-50 seconds
  
  
• Pressure: Medium
  
  

Tip: Place parchment inside and over the koozie to prevent ink bleed-through

Make sure your design is mirrored before printing, and taped securely to avoid shifting. After pressing, let the koozie cool slightly before removing the paper for a sharp, vivid design.

Method 3: Supacolor Transfers

Supacolor transfers offer the convenience of HTV with the vibrant detail of sublimation, making them a great choice for full-color logos and intricate designs on neoprene koozies. These screen-printed transfers are known for their durability, ease of use, and professional finish.

Pressing Instructions:

• Temperature: 280°F - 320°F
  
  
• Time: 12-15 seconds
  
  
• Pressure: Firm
  
  
• Peel: Hot

Supacolor transfers are great for batch production and detailed branding. The vibrant, commercial-quality results make them ideal for promotional items or retail-ready products.

Final Thoughts

Whether you prefer the textured finish of HTV or the smooth, vivid results of sublimation, neoprene can koozies are a great blank for custom decoration. HTV is perfect for simple logos or bold text, while sublimation and Supacolor shine for detailed artwork and full-color images.

Have you made custom koozies using these methods? Share your creations with us on our social media pages—we’d love to see what you come up with!