I had the same frustration and I bought the big pack, lots of $$$...I found that it works best for me if I let the color set for a while, then turn upside down on a piece of muslin & heat the backing with the iron. Once you get a corner started and heat as you go, it comes right off no problem. I do the cold running water process after I take the backing off and let air dry before pressing flat. Works every time!