A sublimation process allows you to print directly onto textiles and vinyl by using special types of sublimation printers.
It passes heat through a colour-sensitive film and converts it into a gas. From there, the gas enters the fabric or vinyl, leaving a permanent mark.
Sublimation is an option you can use to decorate fabrics that are not typically dye-able. You can use Sublimation on fabrics such as T-shirts, tank tops, and even Nylon Bags!
Have you ever wondered, Can you sublimate on nylon? You will find this article useful if you have one. We will tell you what is nylon and how to treat them.
Table of Contents
What is Nylon?
Nylon is a synthetic fabric commonly used in stockings and lingerie products. Made of polyamide, nylon is resistant to heat, sunlight, sweaty skin and other chemicals.
It has been used to make outdoor equipment such as tents, water bottles and backpacks.
However, nylon is not dye-able. This means that you cannot use traditional fabric dye to decorate clothes made of nylon. You have to use sublimation instead.
Sublimation is a process where dyes are transferred from an inkjet printer to the surface of your item without making any physical contact with it.
Can you Sublimate on Nylon?
Yes! You can sublimate on nylon. There is a bit of a learning curve, but it’s doable.
The problem with nylon is that it’s a polyester material, and polyester does not sublimate well with heat. When you’re not careful, the dye will melt and run into the fabric.
The key to sublimating on nylon is only to apply heat for a very short period of time. If you leave the iron on for too long, the dye will melt, run into the fabric, and ruin your design.
To get around this problem, use a cotton cover over your design to protect it from melting or running.
Then apply heat for just one second at a time until all areas are covered in dye (including under the cover).
Can You Sublimate on Polyamide?
Yes, sublimation can occur on polyamide (also known as nylon) materials, which are commonly used for textiles and other applications.
Sublimation is a process where a solid material directly transforms into a gas without passing through the liquid state.
This can occur when polyamide is exposed to high temperatures and low pressure, causing the solid material to vaporize and deposit onto a surface.
Can You Sublimate on Nylon Bags?
Yes, sublimation can occur on nylon bags if they are treated with a sublimation coating and subjected to high temperatures and low pressure.
This process allows for the transfer of dye-sublimation inks from a paper medium onto the nylon bag, resulting in a permanent and vibrant print.
However, not all nylon bags are suitable for sublimation, so it is important to check the manufacturer’s specifications before attempting the process.
Things to Consider Before Sublimating Nylon
Sublimation is a process that allows you to print on nylon. This process works by heating the nylon and then transferring ink directly onto the fabric.
With the ink incorporated into the fabric, you are not concerned about fading or peeling when you wash your garments.
To obtain the most out of sublimating nylon, make sure you take a look at these things before you begin.
Know Your Fabric
It is important to consider the type of nylon you will be using when printing.
There are two types of nylon, polyamide and polyester, and each has its own set of characteristics that will affect how well it takes a print and how long it lasts.
However, polyester tends to be more expensive than polyamide, which makes it more durable.
Use the Right Ink
Sublimation inks are made specifically for use on different substrates and should only be used on their designated substrate.
For example, if you’re using an ink designed for cotton fabric but want to print on nylon instead, your design will fade prematurely because these inks were not designed for use on nylon.
Temperature Setting
The temperature setting for your printer should be between 180°C and 200°C (356°F – 392°F).
If the temperature is too high, the print may look mottled or streaky; if it’s too low, there won’t be enough heat to transfer onto your material properly.
Ink Setting
The ink setting should be set between 100% and 150%.
If it’s too low, the print may look faded or washed out; if it’s too high, then there will be too much ink on your material, and you may see some bleeding.
Substrate Material
The substrate material you use will affect how your print looks.
If you’re printing on a dark material, it’s important to use ink darker than the color of your shirt or garment; otherwise, the print may look faded or washed out.
If you’re printing on light-colored textiles, then you can use any color ink or even white ink for a bleached effect.
How to Sublimate on Nylon?
If you know how to use sublimation printers the best way to sublimate on nylon is by using an iron to heat up the fabric, then press it against your design.
This will transfer your design onto the nylon fabric and leave you with a permanent print.
Step 1:
Use the laminator to laminate your design to the transfer film or print directly onto transfer paper.
If you are using a laminator, be sure to use sticker paper or card stock as a backing for your design.
Step 2:
Heat up your iron. Set it on high, but don’t let it get too hot or else it will burn through the nylon.
Step 3:
Place your fabric and design face down onto an ironing board with some parchment paper underneath it.
So, that any melted plastic doesn’t stick to your ironing board or tabletop (this would be very difficult to get off).
Step 4:
Press down firmly onto the fabric while moving your iron back and forth across it until all of the ink has transferred from your piece of paper onto your fabric.
Step 5:
Let the fabric cool down for a few minutes before removing it from your ironing board.
Be careful not to leave your piece in place too long, or it will start sticking to the parchment paper.
Step 6:
Peel the fabric from the parchment paper, leaving you with a beautiful, crisp piece of fabric.
FAQs
Can you sublimate on a nylon swimsuit?
Yes! It is possible to sublimate on nylon swimsuits. Sublimation works best on fabrics that are made from natural fibers.
Can I sublimate on plastic?
Plastic is technically not a fabric, but it can be used for sublimation. The best type of plastic to use is PVC or polyvinyl chloride because it will not melt from the heat of the press.
How do you sublimate a nylon bag?
The first step is to clean it. Then use a marker to draw on the image you want to sublimate. Once you are done with this, you can use your heat press machine to transfer the design onto the nylon bag.
What temperature should sublimation be set at?
The best way to ensure that your design transfers well is to set the temperature at 200 degrees Celsius or 392 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that all of your colors come out as expected and that there are no smudges or blurs in your design.
Is nylon good for sublimation?
Yes, nylon can be good for sublimation if treated with a sublimation coating and subjected to high heat and low pressure. Not all nylon is suitable, so it is important to check manufacturer’s specifications.
What fibers can you sublimate on?
Polyester and polymer-coated materials are suitable for sublimation, but not all fibers can be sublimated. Check manufacturer’s specifications before attempting.
Does heat transfer work on nylon?
Heat transfer can work on nylon if it is treated with a special coating and subjected to high temperatures and pressure. Not all nylon is suitable for heat transfer, so it is important to check the manufacturer’s specifications.
Final Words
So, Can you sublimate on nylon? Yes, you can. But it’s not going to be easy; you have to experiment with different settings and materials, and precautions will have to be taken.
Be sure to follow all of this article’s instructions and safety precautions.
Don’t rush it; take your time, be careful and patient, and you should have no problems with your finished product!
Fredrik Miller is the Founder of PrinterLake.com, a platform dedicated to providing information on sublimation printing. With a Master’s degree in Information Technology from Reputed University, Fredrik brings a wealth of technical knowledge and expertise to the site.
He leads a team of writers who are experts in the field and strive to deliver the best and most comprehensive information on sublimation printers, inks, and paper.