How to Print on Fabric – 3 Effective Methods

Through this post, you will learn efficient ways of how to print fabric. The guide goes in-depth into techniques that you can use to complete this process DIY. On average, you can use four main methods for this process, and we shall evaluate each of them in this guide.

The fabric printing techniques majorly involve using an inkjet printer because it’s a highly convenient resource. Some people who are competent with this process have even used it to print on napkins and power. You can also use a home office printer for this process.

Your ability to print on fabric will provide you with a convenient way to recycle old materials such as shirts or bedsheets. You can use them later on to make fun items such as fabric mushrooms.

We shall be looking at four different ways of printing on fabrics in the guide include:

1. The freezer paper printing method.
2. The printable fabric sheets method.
3. The iron-on transfer paper method

Let us begin.

1.  Freezer Paper Fabric Printing Method

First on this list would be the Freezer Paper Fabric Printing Method which requires specialized paper. It goes by the name freezer paper and is a practical resource for printing on different fabric types.

You will notice this approach works best for materials such as old bedsheets and fabric such as linen. The steps to expect in this process include:

1. Select the proper fabric density for the project. Choose the type that has a low density so your home printer can process it conveniently. You can also opt for lighter-colored, cream or white fabrics.
2. Place the fabric on the top section of your freezer. Ensure that the plastic-coated section of the paper gets in touch with the material. Then, get a hot iron, and use it on the fabric until it adheres to the paper.
3. Then, get a rotary cutter and use it to shape the paper fabric in smaller dimensions, preferably an A4 size sheet.
4. Insert the paper into your printer. Ensure that you print the image on the fabric section, and avoid using the freezer paper section.
5. Print using the typical techniques through your computer, but ensure you customize the quality settings. Choose the “best quality” printing option.
6. Once complete printing the image onto the fabric, remove the freezer paper backing from the printer.

Benefits

• It can print on products such as old bedsheets.
• You don’t have to add any film to the fabric, which helps with texture.
• It’s a cheap method because you only buy freezer paper.

Drawbacks

• The fabric you use has to be compact enough to move through the printer.
• You can only print small sizes content which can be in the A3 or A4 formats.

2.  Printable Fabric Sheets

It’s one of the easiest methods for printing on fabric sheets, and many DIY users love the results. The process involves almost the same stapes and the freezer paper approach. The convenient thing is that most brands customize their printable fabric sheets to work with computers easily.

Before buying the ideal printable fabric sheets, ensure you conduct through research so you can choose the best quality. Fabric sheets from some brands are not often unique and can lead to a host of scanning complications.

Benefits

• Easy and ready to go with no preparation required.
• You won’t have to add film to the fabric, so the texture remains similar.
• You can also go for the stick-back version of the fabric.

Drawbacks

• You may have access to a single fabric alternative.
• You can print on A4 sizes only.

3.  Iron Transfer Paper

Iron Transfer paper is another excellent alternative for printing on fabric. It involves transferring images onto fabric by using a medium. Similar to scanning fabric, you need to research further before buying a particular set. Then you can move on to The steps involved in this process should include:

1. Iron transfer paper, which is available in different types, including light-colored and dark-colored versions. You should choose the type that suits your specific fabric color needs.
2. Put the paper into the paper feeder in your unit. Ensure you place the paper on the right section for printing purposes. Most brands indicate the correct position you should use.
3. Go to the “advance printer menu” section and choose the best quality to print. Do this is similar to the other printing measures that you should have used. Remember to select the “mirror print box” option in the menu. Doing this will produce a mirror image of the content.
4. Next, cut the printed image around the edge sections. Then, prepare iron and choose the highest temperature level. Turn off the steam setting.
5. Put the image facing downward on the material, and then use the iron to press it on the fabric. The amount of time you should perform this process depends on your chosen iron transfer sheet brand. However, expect the process to take up to 30 seconds for each side.
6. Let the paper cool down for a few minutes, and then remove the paper backing structure.

Which Method is Best for How to Print on Fabric?

Since each method has its unique benefits and drawbacks, the best way to print on fabric depends on various factors. These can include:

• Your specific needs, such as the quality and context of image printing that you want to use.
• The availability of resources such as inkjet printers or iron transfer paper.
• Your ability to orchestrate each fabric printing process by using the correct measures.

Overall, you have seen the various techniques that you can use for how to print on fabric. While it seems like a technical process, you should soon get the hang of it with a few informed tries. The technique you use depends on your personal preferences and the quality of content you want to produce.