People really like both polyester and nylon clothes because they’re great in different ways. But nylon is a bit better because it’s strong and stretchy. But here’s the question: can you sublimate nylon to make designs that are even better than what you can do on polyester?
Nylon has a big problem with heat. That means it can’t win against polyester. Making a picture stick onto it needs a lot of heat.
Even if you manage it, the picture won’t be very bright, and some parts might look dull or even blank.
But there’s a way to beat this problem.
You’ll find a simple trick in this article. Keep reading if you want to change your boring nylon clothes into something cool without ruining the fabric.
Table of Contents
Can You Sublimate Nylon? Is It Possible?
Yes, you can sublimate on nylon, but you have to do it differently because nylon doesn’t handle heat well.
Instead of the usual way, lower the temperature when pressing the design onto a blank nylon.
Nylon fibers can melt easily with high heat, so it’s crucial to dial down the temperature and figure out the right timing.
Also, to prevent colors from smudging, it’s best to slip a piece of butcher paper between layers of material and use a pressing pillow for thin nylon stuff.
Remember, while you can sublimate on pure nylon or nylon blends, nothing beats the brightness and long-lasting prints of poly-coated nylon.
To make designs that stay vibrant for years, try using a thin layer of this material.
Can You Sublimate Nylon? Answered By a 40 Years Old Expert
Being careful with the nylon type and heat is crucial when you’re sublimating on nylon. Nylon, Rayon, spandex, and Lycra melt at lower temperatures.
Some have water-resistant treatments that won’t take colors well.
Avoid using nylon spandex for dance clothes, especially the metallic kind; it melts easily. Nylon webbing, like dog leashes, works well for sublimation.
Use a lower temperature but press for longer.
Don’t let the fabric touch the press directly.
Test the temperature and color retention before bulk printing; some may bleed after a few days.
Test the temperature it can handle and how long it takes for colors to transfer. Start small with testing, like cutting 2-inch squares.
Preheat the fabric, especially webbing, which tends to shrink.
Check clothing tags for ironing and drying temperatures for guidance.
Pre-washing might also help.
Fabrics that look more plastic-like melt easier, so be cautious.
Even with 40 years of sewing experience, I’ve accidentally melted certain fabrics when ironing! – Amberita70
How Can You Sublimate Nylon?
Here is step by step process on how you can sublimate on nylon.
Things you need:
- Sublimation printer, ink, and paper
- Nylon fabric
- Heat-resistant tape
- Heat press
- Butcher paper
Steps to Sublimate Nylon
Step 1: Wash the nylon in warm water to freshen it up. Iron it at low heat to remove wrinkles and help it dry fast.
Step 2: Spray sublimation adhesive; let it dry. If it’s pure nylon, apply a polyester coating for better ink absorption.
Step 3: Print your design using high-quality sublimation ink and a good printer.
Step 4: Flip and tape the sublimation paper, holding the design, on the area you want.
Step 5: Set the heat press to about 275°F (135°C); adjust as needed for your nylon type.
Step 6: Layer the press with butcher paper; place the nylon with the design facing up. Press for 15 seconds; avoid pressing too hard.
Step 7: Peel off the tape slowly to see your sharp design on the fabric.
These steps can help you sublimate on nylon with ease!
Conclusion
While nylon is strong and long-lasting, it falls behind polyester when it comes to sublimation. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t use it for this process.
So, how can you sublimate on nylon? The trick is simple: lower the temperatures. This makes it possible to transfer vibrant designs without needing anything special.
FAQs about Sublimating Nylon
Q: Can you sublimate nylon?
Yes, you can sublimate nylon by adjusting temperatures during the process. Lowering the temperature enables vivid designs to be transferred without any unique requirements.
Q: What materials are needed to sublimate nylon?
To sublimate on nylon, you’ll need a sublimation printer, ink, and paper, nylon substrate, heat-resistant tape, a heat press, and butcher paper.
Q: What preparation is required before sublimating nylon?
Before sublimating nylon, prepare the fabric by washing it in warm water to restore its shine and ironing at low temperatures to remove wrinkles.
Q: How can I achieve vivid designs when sublimating nylon?
To ensure vivid designs, use high-quality sublimation ink, apply a sublimation adhesive and polyester coating, and carefully follow recommended temperature settings on your heat press.