Yes, you can use any inkjet printer to print designs on t-shirts and other clothing items using transfer paper. It may not produce the highest quality print, but it's a cheap and easy option for personalizing clothes.
All you need is an inkjet printer, inkjet transfer paper, and an iron to transfer the design onto the fabric. If you have a laser printer, you can use laser transfer paper instead. However, this article will focus on inkjet transfer paper and printers.
You don't need an expensive printer to do this, a regular printer will work just fine. The process is simple and straightforward. You can print text and images onto a variety of fabrics using transfer paper. This is a great way to make personalized gifts, uniforms, or bespoke apparel for special occasions.
What is Transfer Paper?
Well, transfer paper also known as iron-on paper or heat transfer paper, is a type of specialty paper that allows you to transfer images or designs onto fabric using heat and pressure.
There are several types of transfer paper available, each with its own set of characteristics and recommended uses. Here I’ve discussed some common types,
Inkjet transfer paper
This type of transfer paper is designed to work with inkjet printers. It's a popular choice for printing detailed designs or photographs, as it can produce high-quality, vibrant images.
Laser transfer paper
Laser transfer paper is designed to work with laser printers. It's typically less expensive than inkjet transfer paper and can be used to print designs with white or light-colored backgrounds.
Sublimation transfer paper
Sublimation transfer paper is used for printing onto fabrics that are specifically designed to work with sublimation ink. When heat is applied, the ink turns into a gas and bonds with the fabric fibers, resulting in a long-lasting, vivid transfer.
Dark transfer paper
This type of transfer paper is designed for use on dark-colored fabrics. It has a white backing that helps to ensure that the design is opaque and visible on the fabric.
Each type of transfer paper has its own recommended use, so it's important to choose the best one for your project. Be sure to read the instructions carefully before using any type of transfer paper.

How Does Transfer Paper Work?
To transfer an image onto fabric using transfer paper, you will need the following materials:
Transfer paper
An inkjet or laser printer
Fabric to transfer the image onto
An iron or heat press
A hard, flat surface like a table or countertop
Here are the steps to follow:
Choose the image or design that you want to transfer onto your fabric and reverse the image before printing it onto the transfer paper. This is because the transfer paper will flip the image when you transfer it to the fabric.
Print the image onto the transfer paper according to the manufacturer's instructions for your printer type.
Cut the transfer paper to the size of your design.
Place the transfer paper face-down onto the fabric where you want the image to appear.
Use a hot iron or heat press to apply pressure and heat to the transfer paper for the duration specified by the manufacturer's instructions. This will transfer the image from the paper to the fabric.
Allow the transfer to cool before peeling off the transfer paper. The image should be left behind on the fabric.
Factors that can affect the quality of the transfer include:
The quality of the printer and ink used. Higher-quality printers and inks can produce sharper, more vibrant transfers.
The type of fabric used. Some fabrics, like cotton, work better with transfer paper than others. Synthetic fabrics like nylon or silk may require special transfer paper designed for those materials.
The temperature and pressure applied during the transfer process. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for your transfer paper and equipment to avoid overheating or under heating the transfer.
The size and complexity of the design. Larger, more intricate designs may not transfer as well as simpler designs due to the limitations of the transfer paper and printing process.

Tips for Using a Regular Printer for Transfer Paper
Here are some tips for using a regular printer for transfer paper, along with step-by-step instructions for printing transfer paper:
Materials you'll need:
Transfer paper
A regular inkjet printer
An iron
Scissors
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Choose the image or design you want to transfer onto your fabric and reverse the image before printing it onto the transfer paper. This is important because the transfer paper will flip the image when you transfer it to the fabric.
Print the image onto the transfer paper according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Cut out the transfer paper to the size of your design.
Preheat your iron to the temperature specified in the transfer paper instructions.
Place your fabric on a hard, flat surface and lay the transfer paper face down on the fabric where you want the image to appear.
Apply pressure to the iron and move it over the transfer paper and fabric, making sure to apply even pressure for the specified amount of time in the instructions. This will transfer the image from the paper to the fabric.
Allow the transfer to cool before peeling off the transfer paper. The image should be left behind on the fabric.
Tips and Tricks:
Use high-quality transfer paper designed for inkjet printers.
Adjust your printer settings to ensure the best possible transfer results. Set your printer to print at the highest quality and density settings.
Use a test print before printing on the actual transfer paper to ensure the image will come out correctly.
Make sure to iron the transfer paper onto the fabric on a hard, flat surface to ensure even pressure.
Don't iron for too long or use too much pressure, as this can cause the transfer to bleed or crack.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the transfer paper and ironing process to ensure the best possible transfer results.