There are a few different types of fabrics that can be used for sublimation, but the most common and best fabric to use is polyester. Polyester has a special molecular structure that allows for the sublimation ink to be absorbed into the fabric. This results in a long lasting and durable print that will not fade.
Other fabrics that can be used for sublimation include polyester blends, lycra, and spandex. However, these fabrics do not absorb the ink as well as pure polyester and the prints will not be as durable. Sublimation can also be done on coated polyester, but the results are not as good as on uncoated polyester.
To get the best results, it is important to use a fabric that is white or light in color. This will allow for the brightest and most vibrant colors. Dark colors can be used, but the results will not be as vibrant.
If you are looking for a durable and vibrant print, then polyester is the best fabric to use for sublimation.
What types of fabrics can I sublimate on?
There are a few different types of fabrics you can sublimate on. The most popular and recommended fabrics for sublimation are polyester, poly-cotton blends, or 100% polyester. These fabrics have a high polyester content, which is necessary for the sublimation process.
You can also sublimate on cotton and 100% cotton fabrics, but the results are not as good as on polyester fabrics. The sublimation transfer will not be as bright and vibrant on cotton fabrics, and the fabric itself may warp or shrink when heated. If you do want to sublimate on cotton, it's best to use a prewashed, preshrunk fabric.
Sublimation can also be done on leather and nylon, but these fabrics are not as common to sublimate on. The process is slightly different when sublimating on these materials, so it's best to consult with a professional before trying it.
What are the benefits of sublimation?
Sublimation is the process of going from a solid to a gas without passing through the liquid state. The main benefit of sublimation is that it allows for quick and efficient cooling. When a substance sublimes, it generally does so at a lower temperature than when it melts. This makes sublimation ideal for products that need to be quickly cooled, such as food items. Additionally, sublimation can be used to purify substances. When a substance sublimes, any impurities it contains are left behind in the solid state. This makes sublimation a method of choice for purifying chemicals and other materials. Finally, sublimation can be used to preserve items. When an item is preserved via sublimation, it retains its original shape and structure. This is because sublimation prevents the growth of bacteria and other organisms that cause degradation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to choose the best fabric for sublimation?
The best fabric for sublimation is 100% polyester because of the high heat resistance. If you are using a cotton fabric, be aware that it will only work with low heat settings and may not give the same quality of finished product.
Can you use sublimation inks on polyester fabric?
Yes, sublimation inks can be used on polyester fabric. However, because the ink only blends to a portion of the material, your design may not transfer completely to the fabric. You will want to aim for at least 40% polyester content so that your design transfers fully to the fabric.
What type of plastic is used for sublimation printing?
The most common type of plastic used for sublimation printing is polyester.
Can You sublimate on 100% cotton?
No, you cannot sublimate on 100% cotton. The fabric is too absorbent and will not heat properly to create a sublimated image.
What is the best fabric for sublimation?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, because it depends on your specific needs and circumstances. However, the best fabric for sublimation typically involves a high degree of transparency, meaning that you can see through it easily. This makes it ideal for printing graphics or images onto clothing or other items. Additionally, a high degree of resilience means that the fabric will not tear easily under stress. This is important, because sublimation treatments can sometimes cause fabrics to shrink or fray after being printed with graphics or images. A resilient fabric will less likely to suffer from these types of damage. The bottom line: If you are just starting out with sublimation, I recommend choosing a fabric that is both transparent and resilient. Polyester is an excellent option for both of these characteristics!
