Can You Sublimate On Rayon?

Rayon is a popular synthetic fabric made from cellulose fibers. It is known for its soft and silky texture But can you sublimate on rayon?

The answer is Yes! You can sublimate on rayon, but it requires a different process compared to polyester. Rayon has a lower melting point than polyester. To successfully sublimate on rayon, you need to use a lower temperature and a shorter pressing time.

Can You Sublimate On Rayon?

When sublimation is applied to rayon, the fabric undergoes a transformation where the dye is transferred onto the material through heat and pressure. 

Sublimation On Rayon | Complete Procedure

Here is the list of material and a step-by-step guide for how to sublimate on Rayon:

Material For Sublimate on Rayon

• A sublimation printer and ink
• A heat press or an iron
• A sheet of sublimation paper
• A rayon garment or fabric

Here are some steps you can follow to sublimate on rayon easily:

Design:

Choose a design that you want to sublimate on rayon. You can use any image editing software, such as Photoshop, to create or edit your design. Make sure that your design is in high resolution and that you mirror it before printing it on a sublimation paper.

Suitable Fabric:

Choose a rayon fabric that is suitable for sublimation. Rayon fabrics vary in their composition and quality, so you need to find one that has a high percentage of polyester or other synthetic fibers. Polyester fibers can withstand high temperatures and bond well with the sublimation ink. You can also look for rayon fabrics that are specially treated for sublimation, such as those with a coating or a primer.

Heat Process:

Preheat your heat press to the recommended temperature and time for your rayon fabric. You can check the manufacturer’s instructions or do some test runs to find the optimal settings. Generally, you want to set your heat press to around 375°F (190°C) and press for 30 to 60 seconds.

Place your rayon fabric on the lower platen of your heat press and smooth out any wrinkles or creases. You can also use a lint roller or a spray bottle to remove any dust or moisture from the fabric.

Place your sublimation paper on top of your rayon fabric, with the printed side facing down. Make sure that the paper covers the entire area of the fabric that you want to sublimate on. You can use some heat-resistant tape or spray adhesive to secure the paper in place and prevent it from shifting during the pressing process.

Close your heat press and apply firm and even pressure on your rayon fabric and sublimation paper. Wait for the timer to beep and then open your heat press carefully.

Peel Off:

Peel off the sublimation paper from your rayon fabric while it is still hot. You should see your design transferred onto the fabric in vibrant colors and crisp details.

Durability Of Print:

Let your rayon fabric cool down completely before handling it or washing it. You can also use a protective sheet or parchment paper to cover your sublimated rayon fabric and press it again for a few seconds to set the ink and enhance the durability of the print.

Pros and Cons

Conclusion:

In conclusion, sublimating on rayon can result in high-quality, vibrant, and durable prints. However, it requires specific equipment and limited fabric choices. While there are pros, such as vibrant colors and durability, there are cons to consider, including expensive equipment and the potential for fading or cracking. With proper techniques, sublimating on rayon can be a great option for customization projects.