Enhance Your Prints: 5 Best Fabrics for Sublimation

Discover the top 5 Best fabrics for sublimation printing. Explore the best options to achieve vibrant, durable, and high-quality sublimated prints from polyester to poly-cotton blends, nylon, spandex, and microfiber. Choose the ideal fabric for your sublimation projects and take your designs to the next level.

What is Sublimation Printing?

Before we explore the best fabrics for sublimation, let’s first grasp the sublimation printing process. This method uses special dyes, which can shift directly from solid to gas without passing through a liquid state.

These dyes are printed onto transfer paper and applied to fabric using heat and pressure. The heat vaporizes the dyes, allowing them to penetrate and become a permanent part of the fabric’s structure—a process as smooth as silk.

5 Best Fabrics for Sublimation Printing

Here, I discuss the fabrics for sublimation printing based on their quality, durability, comfort, and versatility.

1. Polyester:

Polyester is the most common and widely used fabric for sublimation printing. It is a synthetic fabric resistant to damage, shrinkage, wrinkles, and stains. It also has a smooth and soft texture, making it comfortable.

Polyester is perfect for sublimation printing because it can produce vibrant and detailed prints that last long. It also has many colors and styles, such as solid, striped, floral, geometric, and more.

Advantages:

• It can print on any fabric part, including seams and edges.
• It can print on both sides of the material, creating a double-sided design.
• It can print on large areas of the material, creating an all-over print.

Disadvantages:

• It can be prone to pilling, fading, and yellowing over time, especially if exposed to sunlight or high temperatures.
• It can be less breathable and moisture-wicking than natural fabrics, making it less suitable for hot and humid climates.
• It can be less eco-friendly and biodegradable than natural fabrics, as it is made from petroleum-based materials.

2. Poly-Cotton:

Poly-cotton is a blend of polyester and cotton, usually in a ratio of 65:35 or 50:50. It is a hybrid fabric that combines the best of both worlds: the durability and vibrancy of polyester and the softness and breathability of cotton.

Poly-cotton is an excellent alternative to polyester for sublimation printing, as it can offer a more natural and comfortable feel. It can also print well on light and dark colors if the polyester content is high enough.

Advantages:

• It can print in light and dark colors if the polyester content is high enough.
• It can offer a more natural and comfortable feel than polyester, as it has some cotton fibers.
• It can be more affordable and accessible than pure polyester, as it is more widely available.

Disadvantages:

• It can print less vividly and sharply than polyester, as it has some cotton fibers that may absorb some of the dye.
• It can print less evenly and consistently than polyester, as it may have variations in the polyester-cotton ratio.
• It can shrink and wrinkle more than polyester, as it has some cotton fibers that may react to heat and moisture.

3. Rayon:

Rayon is a semi-synthetic fabric that is made from cellulose, a natural material derived from plants. It is a soft, silky fabric that drapes well and has a high luster. It is also very absorbent and breathable, idealizing warm and humid climates.

Rayon is an excellent fabric for sublimation printing, as it can produce vibrant, detailed prints that are permanent and durable. It can also print in light and dark colors with a special coating that prevents the dye from bleeding.

Advantages:

• It can print in light and dark colors with a special coating that prevents the dye from bleeding.
• It can produce vibrant and detailed prints that are permanent and durable, as it has a high affinity for dye.
• It can offer a soft and silky feel that is comfortable and elegant, as it has a high luster and drape.

Disadvantages:

• It can be more expensive and less available than polyester or poly-cotton, requiring a special coating and processing.
• It can be less resistant to damage, shrinkage, wrinkles, and stains than polyester or poly-cotton, as it is more delicate and sensitive to heat and moisture.
• It can be less eco-friendly and biodegradable than cotton, as it uses chemicals and solvents in its production.

4. Lycra:

Lycra is a brand name for a type of spandex, a synthetic fabric that is known for its exceptional elasticity and strength. It is a stretchy, flexible fabric that can conform to the body and enhance movement and performance. It is often used for athletic wear, swimwear, underwear, and leggings.

Lycra is a suitable fabric for sublimation printing, as it can print in light and dark colors as long as it has a high polyester content. It can also print on both sides of the fabric, creating a double-sided design. However, it can print less vividly and sharply than polyester, as it has some spandex fibers that may interfere with the dye.

Advantages:

• It can print in light and dark colors as long as it has a high polyester content.
• It can print on both sides of the fabric, creating a double-sided design.
• It can offer a stretchy, flexible, comfortable, supportive feel, as it has exceptional elasticity and strength.

Disadvantages:

• It can print less vividly and sharply than polyester, as it has some spandex fibers that may interfere with the dye.
• It can print less evenly and consistently than polyester, as it may have variations in the polyester-spandex ratio.
• It can be less breathable and moisture-wicking than polyester, as it has some spandex fibers that may trap heat and sweat.

5. Acrylic:

Acrylic, a synthetic fabric made from acrylic fibers, resembles wool in feel and appearance but is lightweight and warm. It boasts resistance to damage, shrinkage, wrinkles, and stains, making it a popular choice for sweaters, blankets, hats, and scarves.

Though acrylic can be used for sublimation printing, it requires a special coating to bond the dye with the fibers. It supports printing on both light and dark colors and can cover large areas for all-over prints. However, unlike polyester, acrylic’s lower affinity for dye results in prints that may be less vibrant and detailed—not quite hitting the bullseye in terms of vividness.

Advantages:

• It can print in light and dark colors with a special coating that bonds the dye with the fibers.
• It can print on large areas of the fabric, creating an all-over print.
• It can offer a lightweight, warm, cozy, comfortable feel, as it has a wool-like feel and appearance.

Disadvantages:

• It can print less vibrant and detailed than polyester, as it has a lower affinity for dye.
• It can print less durable and permanent than polyester, as it may lose color over time, especially if exposed to sunlight or high temperatures.
• It can be less eco-friendly and biodegradable than natural fabrics made from plastic materials.

Criteria for Selecting Sublimation Fabrics

When selecting sublimation fabric, 6 crucial factors come into play. These include:

1. Polyester Content: Polyester fabrics have a polymer-rich structure that readily absorbs and retains sublimated inks, resulting in vivid and long-lasting prints.

2. Smooth Texture: Fabrics with a smooth surface provide an even canvas for sublimation, ensuring that intricate details and vibrant colors are accurately transferred.

3. Colour Brilliance: Sublimation works best on light-colored fabrics, as the process involves the application of transparent inks that blend with the fabric’s color.

4. Durability: The chosen fabric should withstand sublimation and retain its quality after multiple washes.

5. Moisture-wicking Properties: Fabrics that effectively wick away moisture keep the wearer comfortable. Polyester and specific synthetic blends are ideal for sportswear and activewear.

6. Stretchability: Fabrics that offer good stretch and recovery are highly desirable for sublimation printing, especially for leggings and sportswear. Nylon and spandex are known for their excellent stretchability.

Importance of Fabric Selection in Sublimation Printing

Selecting suitable fabric is crucial in sublimation printing as it affects the overall quality and durability of the final product. Different materials have different properties that can enhance or diminish the sublimation process.

When choosing fabrics for sublimation, it is essential to consider factors such as durability, moisture-wicking properties, stretchability, color vibrancy, and texture.

[wps_note size=”17″ background=”#fae588″ color=”#333333″ radius=”3″]Note: The table provides a general comparison of the fabrics based on their printing quality, comfort and feel, durability, and price. Individual preferences and specific fabric variations may affect these factors.[/wps_note]

Natural Fibers: A Sustainable and Comfortable Choice

Offering a combination of comfort, breathability, and sustainability, natural fibers—unlike their synthetic counterparts—bring a unique set of benefits to the table. Here’s a closer look at the different types of natural fibers, their standout qualities, and their ideal uses, truly the best of both worlds for eco-conscious consumers.

Cotton Fabrics: Versatile and Comfortable

• Cotton Canvas: Ideal for Sturdy Projects
  This fabric is perfect for projects that require durability and strength, such as bags, upholstery, and workwear. Cotton canvas is tough yet flexible, making it a go-to choice for items that need to withstand wear and tear.
• Organic Cotton Hemp: Sustainable and Breathable
  Combining the softness of cotton with the strength of hemp, this fabric is both eco-friendly and gentle on the skin. It’s particularly well-suited for clothing, bedding, and baby items, offering comfort with a lower environmental impact.
• Cotton Sateen (200 TC): Smooth and Luxurious
  With its silky surface and fine weave, cotton sateen is ideal for bedding, dresses, and other garments where a smooth finish is desired. The 200 thread count adds a touch of luxury while still being breathable and soft against the skin.
• Cotton Linen Canvas: The Best of Both Worlds
  This fabric combines the rugged durability of canvas with the natural softness of linen. It’s excellent for both fashion and home décor, offering strength and style in one package. Think tote bags, aprons, and stylish cushions.
• Quilting Cotton Organic: Perfect for Quilting Projects
  Designed with quilters in mind, this fabric is light, breathable, and easy to work with. Organic cotton ensures that your quilts are not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly, ideal for creating heirlooms or everyday cozy blankets.
• Essential Cotton Linen: Everyday Use with a Premium Feel
  Blending cotton and linen creates a fabric that’s durable yet comfortable. It’s perfect for a wide range of applications, from clothing to home décor. The natural texture adds a premium feel, making it suitable for everything from curtains to casual wear.
• Cotton Silk: A Blend of Softness and Sheen
  Combining the breathability of cotton with the luster of silk, this fabric is perfect for high-end clothing and accessories. It’s soft to the touch with a subtle sheen, making it a popular choice for garments that require both comfort and elegance.

Silk Fabrics: Elegance and Sophistication

• Silk Twill: Durable with a Fine Texture
  This fabric offers a balance of durability and elegance, making it ideal for items where detail and texture are important, such as scarves and ties. The fine weave and slight sheen add a touch of sophistication to any project.
• Silk Habotai: Lightweight and Smooth
  Often used for linings and delicate garments, silk habotai is lightweight and has a smooth finish. It’s a great choice for creating items that need to be soft and gentle, like lingerie, blouses, or even luxurious pillowcases.
• Silk Charmeuse: Lustrous and Fluid
  Known for its glossy front and matte back, silk charmeuse is the fabric of choice for elegant dresses, evening wear, and lingerie. It drapes beautifully and adds a touch of luxury to any garment.
• Silk Modal: Soft with a Subtle Shine
  This blend combines the softness of modal with the sheen of silk, creating a fabric that’s both versatile and luxurious. It’s perfect for both casual and formal attire, offering comfort and style.
• Cotton Silk: A Balanced Blend
  Providing the strength and breathability of cotton with the elegance and sheen of silk, this fabric is ideal for creating stylish, comfortable clothing. It’s perfect for those looking for a fabric that can transition from day to night with ease.

Hemp Fabrics: Eco-Friendly and Strong

• Organic Cotton Hemp: Earth-Friendly and Versatile
  This fabric is a powerhouse of sustainability, combining organic cotton and hemp for a strong, breathable, and environmentally friendly material. Ideal for clothing, home textiles, and other items where durability and eco-consciousness are priorities.

Modal Fabrics: Soft and Drapable

• Silk Modal: Perfect for Flowing Garments
  Modal is known for its softness and drape, and when combined with silk, it creates a fabric that’s perfect for flowing dresses, blouses, and soft drapery. It’s a great option for those looking for a fabric that feels luxurious against the skin.
• Cashmere Modal: Luxurious and Warm
  This blend offers the warmth and softness of cashmere with the added drape and smoothness of modal. It’s perfect for winter clothing, offering both comfort and a hint of luxury.

Cashmere Fabrics: Ultimate Luxury and Comfort

• Cashmere Modal: The Warmth of Cashmere with Added Softness
  Cashmere is the epitome of luxury, and when blended with modal, it creates a fabric that’s incredibly soft, warm, and versatile. It’s ideal for cozy, high-end garments and accessories that provide both comfort and style.

Linen Fabrics: Durable and Breathable

• Essential Cotton Linen: Versatile for Home and Fashion
  Linen is known for its breathability and durability, and when combined with cotton, it creates a fabric that’s perfect for both clothing and home décor. It’s an excellent choice for summer garments, curtains, and table linens.
• Cotton Linen Canvas: Strong and Stylish
  This fabric offers the strength of canvas with the natural feel of linen, making it ideal for bags, outerwear, and other items that need to be both durable and stylish. It’s perfect for projects that require a sturdy fabric with a natural look.

Synthetic Fibers: Durability and Innovation in Fabric Choices

Offering a range of benefits, synthetic fibers—engineered to meet the demands of modern life—are known for their durability, versatility, and often specialized properties like water resistance or stretch.

A popular choice for everything from fashion to home textiles, these fabrics fit the bill for modern living. No wonder they’re a go-to option, as the cherry on top for those seeking practicality and innovation.

Polyester Fabrics: Durability with Variety

• Heavy Satin: Glossy and Robust
  Polyester-heavy satin is known for its rich luster and sturdy weave, making it a perfect choice for formal wear, drapery, and other decorative applications. The glossy finish adds elegance, while the polyester fibers ensure durability.
• Swimsuit Knit: Stretchy and Quick-Drying
  Designed for active use, swimsuit knit fabric offers excellent stretch and recovery, along with quick-drying properties. It’s ideal for swimwear, activewear, and any garments that need to move with the body while maintaining their shape.
• Peachskin Jersey: Soft with a Matte Finish
  This fabric combines the comfort of jersey with a soft, suede-like finish that feels smooth against the skin. It’s ideal for everyday wear, offering a comfortable, breathable option for tops, dresses, and casual garments.
• Velveteen: Plush and Textured
  Polyester velveteen mimics the luxurious feel of velvet but with added durability. It’s a great choice for upholstery, curtains, and elegant garments where texture and depth are key.
• Poly Twill: Strong with a Subtle Sheen
  Poly twill is a durable fabric with a slight sheen, making it ideal for uniforms, outerwear, and workwear. It offers strength and resilience, standing up to regular wear and tear while maintaining a polished look.
• Poly Canvas: Durable and Water-Resistant
  This fabric is perfect for outdoor use, bags, and upholstery due to its durability and water-resistant properties. Poly canvas is tough, versatile, and capable of withstanding the elements, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications.
• Scuba Double Knit: Thick and Stretchy
  Known for its thickness and flexibility, scuba double knit fabric is ideal for structured garments like skirts, jackets, and sportswear. It provides a smooth surface and maintains its shape well, making it a popular choice for fashion and performance wear alike.
• Performance Spandex: Stretchy and Resilient
  Performance spandex is engineered for flexibility and strength, making it perfect for activewear, dancewear, and any application where stretch and durability are essential. It moves with the body, providing comfort and support during high-impact activities.
• Poly chiffon: Sheer and Flowing
  This lightweight, sheer fabric is perfect for delicate, layered garments like blouses, scarves, and evening wear. Polychiffon drapes beautifully and adds a soft, feminine touch to any design.
• Spun Polyester: Soft Yet Durable
  Spun polyester offers the look and feel of cotton but with enhanced durability and wrinkle resistance. It’s an excellent choice for casual clothing, uniforms, and home textiles, providing comfort with the added benefit of being easy to care for.
• Minky: Plush and Cozy
  Minky fabric is incredibly soft and plush, making it a favorite for blankets, toys, and baby items. The polyester fibers create a dense, velvety texture that’s both warm and durable, perfect for cozy comfort items.
• Double Minky: Extra Soft with a Double Layer
  Taking the comfort of minky a step further, double minky fabric features an extra layer for even more softness and warmth. It’s ideal for ultra-soft blankets, luxurious baby items, and any project where maximum comfort is desired.
• Silky Knit: Smooth and Comfortable
  Silky knit fabric combines the softness of a knit with a smooth, flowing drape. It’s ideal for soft, comfortable garments like dresses, tops, and loungewear, offering a fabric that feels gentle against the skin while looking effortlessly stylish.
• Matte Crepe: Subtle with a Textured Finish
  Polyester matte crepe is known for its subtle texture and matte finish, making it a sophisticated choice for dresses, blouses, and evening wear. It drapes well and offers a unique look that’s both understated and elegant.
• Satin Charmeuse: Sleek and Shiny
  Satin charmeuse is a sleek, glossy fabric that’s perfect for formal wear, lingerie, and elegant accessories. The shiny surface reflects light beautifully, adding a touch of glamour to any garment.

Comparison Table: Between Natural and Synthetic Fabrics:

Care and Maintenance of Sublimated Fabrics

Proper care and supervision are necessary to provide the longevity of sublimated fabrics. Follow these guidelines:

1. Wash sublimated garments in cold water using a gentle cycle.
2. Avoid using bleach or harsh detergents that may fade or damage the prints.
3. Do not iron directly on the sublimated area; turn the garment inside out before ironing.
4. Hang dry or operate a low-heat setting on the dryer to prevent excessive heat exposure.
5. Store cleaned garments in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Final Arguments:

Choosing the suitable fabric is crucial for achieving optimal results in sublimation printing. Polyester, poly-cotton blends, nylon, spandex, and microfiber are among the best materials for sublimation, each offering unique properties suited to different applications. Consider durability, moisture-wicking properties, stretchability, color vibrancy, and texture when selecting fabrics for your sublimation projects.

Choosing suitable fabric and following proper care guidelines ensures that your sublimated products maintain their vibrant colors and longevity for years.

Explore Subli Genius Print, where you’ll find an all-inclusive guide to printers. Dive deep into our Reviews section for detailed insights, offering everything you need to make informed decisions about the best printers for your needs.

Common Queries:

[wps_faq style=”standard” question=”Can sublimation printing be done on natural fabrics like cotton? “]Sublimation printing works best on synthetic fabrics like polyester or blends with high polyester content. Natural fibers like cotton do not have the same ability to absorb and retain the sublimation dyes, resulting in less vibrant and long-lasting prints.[/wps_faq]

[wps_faq style=”standard” question=”Are there any limitations to sublimation printing on fabrics?”] It works best on light-colored fabrics, as the dyes are transparent and blend with the fabric’s color. Dark-colored fabrics may affect the color accuracy and vibrancy of the prints.[/wps_faq]

[wps_faq style=”standard” question=”How can I ensure the colors in my sublimated fabrics remain vibrant?”]To keep the colors vibrant, avoid exposing sublimated fabrics to direct sunlight for extended periods. Additionally, follow the recommended care instructions, including washing in cold water and avoiding harsh detergents or bleach.[/wps_faq]

[wps_faq style=”standard” question=”Can sublimation printing be used for both light and dark fabrics?”]Sublimation printing is most effective on light-colored fabrics where the dyes can fully penetrate the fibers. While it is possible to sublimate dark fabrics, the colors may appear less vibrant and have a more subtle effect.[/wps_faq]

[wps_faq style=”standard” question=”Is it possible to sublimate fabrics at home?”]A: Sublimation printing requires specialized equipment such as a heat press and sublimation printer. While small-scale sublimation setups are available for home use, achieving professional-quality results may require professional-grade equipment and expertise.[/wps_faq]

[wps_faq style=”standard” question=”Can you sublimate on cotton?”]Sublimation printing does not work well on cotton as the dyes cannot fully penetrate the fibers, resulting in less vibrant and long-lasting prints.[/wps_faq]

[wps_faq style=”standard” question=”What is the best polyester fabric for sublimation?”]Polyester fabrics with a high polyester content, such as 100% polyester or polyester blends, are the best for sublimation printing due to their ability to absorb and retain the sublimation dyes effectively.[/wps_faq]

[wps_faq style=”standard” question=” Can you sublimate on 100% cotton?”]Sublimation printing is not recommended for 100% cotton fabrics as the dyes do not adhere well to cotton fibers, leading to subpar print quality and durability.[/wps_faq]

[wps_faq style=”standard” question=”What material can you sublimate on?”]Sublimation printing works best on synthetic fabrics like polyester or blends with high polyester content. These fabrics allow the dyes to fully penetrate the fibers, resulting in vibrant and long-lasting prints.[/wps_faq]