Create multiple prints onto synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon and mixtures of wool and cotton with more than 60% synthetic fibre content. The colours, made from disperse dyes, will appear dull, only giving the full colour once they have been activated by heat. Testing the colours in advance will give a good indication of the final result. Sampling will also give you an opportunity to check the iron setting and transfer time.
Use the Fibrecrafts Transfer Paint Extender to create pastel shades without loosing colour and the Fibrecrafts Transfer Paint Thickener to thicken these paints where desired.
Image shows Heat Transfer print on polyester by Linda Chapman
Method for printing with Transfer Paints:
This sublimation technique requires the image to be first painted onto paper and then heat pressed onto the polyester fabric.
- Brush, print, stencil or spray the design onto smooth, non-absorbent paper and allow to dry.
- Place the design with the paint side against the fabric, using several layers of newspaper as an underlay and a layer of clean paper on top to avoid ink transfer. Set iron between wool and cotton, (cotton setting for a cotton/synthetic mix) and iron for 1-2 minutes. Keep the iron still, since movement can blur the image.
- The transfer is complete when the paper begins to yellow. For larger patterns, set one area at a time, with a cooling time between transfers.
- Transfers can be used more than once, but each subsequent application will give a duller image with some colour change. Colours are intermixable, non-toxic, water based and wash fast, with a soft and flexible handle.
