this patent describes an ink jet printable heat transfer material with cold release properties . the invention consists of multiple layers of coatings applied to a suitable substrate , typically paper . the first optional layer coating consists typically of a pigmented coating bound together with a synthetic or natural binder and is applied in sufficient quantity to level and densify the surface of a given substrate . the second coating is applied over the first and consists of a silicone coating with a controlled surface energy . the surface energy must be such that the subsequent aqueous coatings can be applied over top with good wetting and adhesion , but low enough for an easy removal from the heat transfer after cooling . a third or wash layer is applied over the silicone release layer . this layer must easily wet and adhere to the silicone release layer so the coating does not come off during subsequent coating passes and during handling by the user . the wash layer consists of one or more thermoplastic polymers including ethylene acrylic acid , waxes , and other polymers along with dispersions of non - water soluble plasticizers and antioxidants . an ink receptive layer consists of a low binder thermoplastic organic pigmented coating containing non - water soluble plasticizers and antioxidants along with water soluble and insoluble cationic polymers and / or cationic inorganic pigments . the non - water soluble cationic materials , either organic or inorganic , aid in the retention of the dyes and reduce the wet bleed and wash out of the dyes when the transfers get wet .