Sublimate on 100% Cotton with this ONE Secret Method

Are you wondering if you can sublimate on 100% cotton? The short answer is no, you can’t. Sublimation requires a poly coated blank to adhere to the ink, so fabrics with a high poly blend or 100% polyester are best for sublimation printing. 

However, there is a secret method that allows you to sublimate on cotton! Using a sublimation coating spray on cotton can work wonders. 

Read on to learn more about this process, as well as answers to some common questions about sublimation printing.

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The Secret Method: Using a Sublimation Coating Spray on Cotton

Like I mentioned above, the sublimation process works by adhering ink to a poly coated blank. This is why 100% cotton or natural fibers won’t work well for sublimation printing.

However, you can use a sublimation coating spray to apply a polyester coating to cotton fibers. This allows the ink to stick and create a sublimation effect.

The process is relatively simple. First, print your design onto sublimation transfer paper using a sublimation printer and sublimation ink. Then, spray the sublimation coating onto your cotton fabric using a spray bottle. 

After that, place your transfer paper onto the sprayed fabric and secure it with heat-resistant tape. 

Cover the transfer paper with a Teflon sheet or parchment paper, and press it using a heat press machine with heavy pressure for 60-90 seconds at a temperature of 380-400°F.

Keep in mind that the final result may not be as vibrant as sublimation on polyester fabrics, and the design may fade after several washes. For a permanent and long-lasting effect, it’s recommended to use a high count polyester shirt (at least 60% or more).

Hacks to Replace True Sublimation on Cotton Shirts

If you’re not satisfied with the results that you get from using the spray then you can use any of the other options below.

1. Infusible ink

Infusible Ink is a specialized type of ink used for creating high-quality, long-lasting designs on fabric using heat and pressure. When transferred onto fabric, the ink becomes a permanent part of the material, resulting in vibrant and durable designs.

2. Forever Subli-Light

Forever Subli-Light is a transfer paper that allows you to print vibrant and high-quality designs onto light-colored fabrics using a sublimation printer. It is a cost-effective and easy-to-use alternative to traditional screen printing, allowing you to create customized garments and accessories with ease.

3. White Glitter Vinyl

White glitter htv is a sparkly, adhesive vinyl material that can be cut into various shapes and designs to add a touch of shine to any project. It is a popular cotton sublimation hack.

4. Easy Subli

Most sublimation shirts are usually white, but with Easy Subli, you can now put a sublimation design on light colors too. Siser easysubli is a transfer paper that allows you to print your favorite design on any sublimation printer. It is a user-friendly and cost-effective option that will last a long time.

Each one is a good alternative and can be used on different materials like cotton t shirts and a low poly blend shirt.

Key Takeaways

• It’s possible to sublimate on cotton using a sublimation coating spray.
• The coating applies a polyester layer to the cotton fibers, allowing the ink to stick to the fabric.
• The final result may not be as vibrant as sublimation on polyester fabrics, and the design may fade after several washes.
• For a permanent and long-lasting effect, it’s recommended to use a high count polyester (60% or more). Or just use heat transfer vinyl for your cotton shirts.

Keep These Crafting Tips

Since you can’t memorize all of these tips, go ahead and save this post to your sublimation hacks board on Pinterest for later.

Conclusion 

Sublimating on cotton fabric may seem impossible at first, but using a sublimation coating spray can make it happen. While the final result may not be as vibrant as sublimation on polyester, it’s still a great way to create unique designs on cotton garments. 

Just remember, you should use a high count polyester shirt for a longer lasting effect.

With these tips and tricks, you can experiment with different colors and materials to create your favorite designs on cotton in a fun and easy way!