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I’m confused !!!
I am totally new to this, so please excuse my lack of knowledge.
I have currently been using a screen printer to print my T-shirts, but would like to start using transfers as they seem to be better for small quanties and cheaper for using more colours etc.
But I am confused but the many options available and their processes. Is sublimation the only “home” printing available? I assume this ink is different from the plastisol inks used in screens? and I assume this is the reason why they can’t print onto 100% cotton?
Are there printers that can produce screen printing quality transfers? If so, are they more factory size, rather than catering for the home user?
Any help would be great, as I want to kick off my new designs soon. Then get some examples for you all to see…
Many thanks,
Dave Payne -
1 Reply
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Sublimation works basically by heat opening “pores” as it were in the polyester and the pressure of the press forcing the ink into the pores, when the polyester cools the pores close and seal the ink in. In contrast screen printing and transfer printing the ink sits on top of the fabric.
Sublimation can only be printed onto white garments as there is no carrier and inks are translucent.
There are two types of transfers, the first with a clear carrier, with this you have the same problem as sublimation in that it can only go onto white garments. The second has a white carrier which means it can be used for dark garments These are printed on with either an inkjet or laser printer (there are different papers for inkjet and laser). You need a proper heat press to transfer the transfers as they need to be done at around 180C – a domestic iron will NOT do the job!
With screen printed transfers you will still have all the costs of printing direct to the t-shirt, the only advantage is having bulk printed, and then transfering to the garment size of your choice as and when required.
For inkjet papers have a look at xpres, for laser have a look at The Magic Touch.
I use The Magic Touch system and would be happy to supply some samples for you to test out
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