Can You Sublimate on Modal Fabric?
There is ongoing debate in the decor industry about whether sublimation printing can be successfully used on modal fabric. While sublimation is a widely used method for transferring designs onto polyester materials, there are questions about its compatibility with modal due to the unique cellulose composition of this fabric.
Yes, it is possible to sublimate on modal fabric, but special consideration must be given to account for the modal’s cellulose composition and lower temperature tolerance compared to polyester.
Table of Contents
Can You Sublimate on Modal Fabric?
Yes, you can. Modal fabric is a type of semi-synthetic fabric made from cellulose fibers, typically derived from beech trees. It is known for its softness, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties.
How To Sublimate on Modal Fabric | 10 Steps
To sublimate on modal fabric, you will need a few things:
Sublimation Ink:
Sublimation ink is a special type of ink that becomes a gas when heated and bonds with polyester fibers. Since the modal fabric is a blend of natural and synthetic fibers, it may not absorb the sublimation ink as effectively as pure polyester fabric. However, it can still produce good results.
Sublimation Paper:
Sublimation paper is used to print the design before transferring it onto the fabric. The ink on the paper will turn into a gas when heated and bonded with the fabric.
Heat Press:
A heat press is a machine that applies heat and pressure to transfer the sublimation ink from the paper to the fabric. It is important to set the correct temperature, pressure, and time according to the manufacturer’s instructions for sublimating on modal fabric.
When sublimating on modal fabric, it’s essential to test the process on a small piece of fabric or a scrap before applying it to a larger project. This will help you determine the optimal settings and ensure the desired results.
10 Steps To Do!
- Prepare a mirrored digital design.
- Use modal fabric with high polyester content.
- Wash and dry the fabric.
- Set up a sublimation printer with sublimation inks.
- Print the design onto sublimation paper.
- Preheat the heat press to the recommended temperature.
- Place the printed sublimation paper on the fabric.
- Secure with heat-resistant tape and protective paper.
- Press with firm pressure for 30-60 seconds.
- Allow the fabric to cool and peel off the paper.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, sublimation printing can be successfully used on modal fabric with special considerations. While the modal fabric has a unique cellulose composition and lower temperature tolerance compared to polyester, it is possible to achieve good results by using sublimation ink, sublimation paper, and a heat press.
I’m Derrick Flora and I am the owner of Printangles.com. I am the father of 2 angles and 1 boy and I am 37 years old. I had done Bachelor in Fashion and Textile Studies from FIT State University of New York. It’s been 7 years since when started the sublimation business. I sublimated mugs, t-shirts, canvas, and many more. And we have analyzed some things that beginners don’t apply the actual strategies to complete the project. And those strategies are making your sublimation better onto the material. What do beginners do, they just buy the sublimation printer and the heat press without knowing about them.
