Is this the best fabric for sublimation printing?

Are you wondering if you can sublimate on rayon? Find out here!

What Is Sublimation Printing?

Sublimation printing is a type of dye sublimation printing where heat transfers ink directly to the surface of the material.

It’s also known as direct thermal printing because the ink is applied directly to the substrate without any intermediate layers.

Special sublimation printers can help you make this right from home.

Rayon is made by spinning cellulose synthetic fiber into yarn, which is then woven into fabric. It has been used for decades in clothing, bedding, and household items. But will sublimation printing work on it?

What fabric can you sublimate on?

In order to get the best results, polyester fabric is recommended for sublimation printing. Natural fibers, like cotton, are not a good option unless a polyester solution has been applied to the surface. 

Best Shirts for Sublimation

Since you don’t want faded t-shirts, the best shirts to use for sublimation are polyester shirts.

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Is rayon a polyester?

While rayon and polyester are used in many of the same techniques, they are very different. 

According to Wonderfil, rayon is manufactured from wood pulp that is chemically dissolved into cellulose fiber and undergoes a multi-step process resulting in soft, lustrous rayon fibers.

Polyester, on the other hand, is a synthetic material with long, stable fibers that give it the strength it is best known for. 

What’s so great about this method?

Since dye sublimation printing uses heat to transfer ink onto fabrics, it makes it possible to create custom designs that won’t fade over time.

This method of printing is perfect for creating unique clothing items, home decor, and other accessories.

Can I heat press on rayon?

Well, the answer is sort of. No, you cannot heat press on 100% rayon. Because of the high temperature used in the sublimation process, heat pressing on rayon will cause the fabric to melt and become sticky. 

If you use a blended fabric made of polyester and rayon instead then you can heat press on it. 

The higher the polyester content of the fabric, the better the quality of print you will get.  So 100% polyester fabric will ensure that the image transferred onto the garment prints out clearly. 

Otherwise, you run the risk of ending up with a faded look and a print that will disappear after the first wash.

With a new product, it’s best to just print one item and do a test wash.

It all depends on what percentages of rayon and polyester are in the fabric and how they are distributed. Not all poly blends fade badly.

Why Should I Print On Fabric?

If you’re looking for a unique gift idea, then why not try sublimation printing on fabric? This method allows you to print on fabric with ease and convenience. The best reason is because of the color intensity and customization you can get with sublimation.

How To Choose The Right Printer For Sublimation Printing.

There are several different sublimation printers available today that allow you to print directly onto fabrics. However, there are some things to consider before choosing one.

If you’re interested in learning more about sublimation printing, then I recommend checking out my post on the best affordable Epson sublimation printers. 

What about Inkjet Printers?

So you only have an inkjet printer but you want to try sublimation? No problem, where there’s a will there’s a way. All you need is some sublimation ink.

The video below will guide you on how to convert an inkjet printer to a sublimation printer. It will also help you understand what a sublimation printer is and how it works.

What Can You Make with Sublimation Printing?

Sublimation printing is versatile in the sense that you can make lots of custom crafts with this technique. You can make a printed transfer on almost any surface with a polyester coating.

Here are the best materials that you can sublimate on:

• Mugs
• polyester t-shirts
• Canvas tote bags
• Socks
• Towels
• Blankets
• Mouse Pads

Conclusion

Avoid rayon if you can and use only suitable fabrics like polyester or polyester blends. This way, you’ll be the best results for your sublimation transfers.

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More creative craft ideas! 

If you loved this list of ideas, I hope you will try my other easy DIY craft ideas! The best sublimation printer for beginners, 10 must-have supplies to make a sublimated t-shirt, easy tumbler projects