Sublimation Printing Fabric: What You Need to Know

Sublimation Printing Fabric: What You Need to Know

Sublimation printing has become a popular method for custom printing on fabrics. Unlike traditional printing methods, sublimation printing infuses the ink directly into the fabric fibers, resulting in a high-quality and long-lasting print. However, not all fabrics are suitable for sublimation printing. Here’s what you need to know about sublimation printing fabric.

Synthetic fabrics

Sublimation printing works best on synthetic fabrics, particularly polyester. This is because the sublimation ink bonds well with synthetic fibers, resulting in a high-quality and durable print. Other synthetic fabrics like nylon, spandex, and microfiber can also be used for sublimation printing.

Light-colored fabrics

Sublimation printing works best on light-colored fabrics. The reason for this is that the sublimation ink is transparent, meaning that it will take on the color of the fabric it is printed on. If the fabric is too dark, the colors of the print may not show up well.

Smooth fabrics

Sublimation printing works best on smooth fabrics with a tight weave. This is because the ink needs to bond with the fibers of the fabric to produce a high-quality print. Fabrics like satin and polyester blends are ideal for sublimation printing.

Natural fabrics

Natural fabrics like cotton and silk are not suitable for sublimation printing. This is because the sublimation ink does not bond well with natural fibers, resulting in a lower-quality print. However, there are special types of sublimation paper that can be used to transfer the print onto natural fabrics.

Fabric preparation

Before sublimation printing on fabric, it’s important to properly prepare the fabric. This includes washing and drying the fabric to remove any dirt or residue, as well as ironing the fabric to remove any wrinkles or creases. Proper fabric preparation can help ensure that the sublimation print comes out looking its best.

Conclusion

Sublimation printing is a popular method for custom printing on fabrics. Synthetic fabrics like polyester and smooth fabrics with a tight weave are ideal for sublimation printing. It’s important to properly prepare the fabric before printing to ensure the best results. By understanding the basics of sublimation printing fabric, you can make informed decisions about your custom printing project and ensure that you get the best results.