Sublimation is a popular printing technique, but there is a lot to doing it correctly than the average person might expect.
You might experience various hurdles and questions in this process. One of them is, “can you sublimate on modal fabric and get the same results as on polyester or other synthetic fabrics?
Fortunately, this guide will walk you through all you need to know about this process and more.
Can You Sublimate On Modal Fabric?
Good news – You can sublimate on modal fabric, but there are some stipulations.
You must make a few adjustments and considerations when compared to using traditional mediums like polyester.
Furthermore, modal also often undergo dying procedures using reactive dyes.
Also Read: Can You Sublimate On Nylon
These are known to interfere with the sublimation process without the right treatment process. Thus, you must use the right ink, tools, the recommended time, and the correct pressure settings.
Plus, some colors won’t transfer as well as you would expect on modal fabric. Some reasons include because of the modal’s texture and absorbency levels.
Reasons Why You Can Sublimate on Modal Fabric
There are various reasons why it could possible to sublimate on modal fabric including:
Reason #1: High Affinity for Sublimation Ink
Even though modal ink isn’t a synthetic material type like polyester, it is still able to commendable sublimation ink and bond with it accordingly.
However, you must also use high-quality resources and the right resources.
You need to use sublimation ink that brands make specifically for surfaces like modal. These ink types contain higher percentages of disperse dyes, which can penetrate deep into the fibers of modal fabric.
The result is that these combinations help to create permanent and high-quality bonds.
Reason #2: Modal Fabric is Breathable and Porous
Modal fabric has a porous design which makes dye penetration and moisture absorption a convenient process. It will allow the sublimation ink to transfer faster and evenly to the fabric.
Furthermore, the modal fabric will also guarantee improved comfort thanks to its high breathability levels.
Reason #3: It’s Ecofriendly
Modal fabric is eco-friendly: Modal fabric is made from renewable beech wood pulp and has a lower environmental impact than synthetic fabrics.
Sublimation on modal fabric can therefore be a more sustainable printing option for those who prioritize eco-friendliness.
Modal fabric has a soft and luxurious feel: Modal fabric is prized for its softness, drapability, and silky sheen. Sublimation on modal fabric can enhance these qualities by creating vibrant and intricate designs that complement the fabric’s natural texture and color.
Modal fabric can be used for various applications: Modal fabric is versatile and can be used for a wide range of garments and accessories, including t-shirts, dresses, scarves, and bedding.
Sublimation on modal fabric can therefore offer a diverse range of customization options for different audiences and purposes.
How to Sublimate on Modal Fabric
Sublimation is a process that allows you to transfer designs onto various materials, including modal fabric. Modal fabric is a soft, comfortable, and durable material that is ideal for clothing and home decor items.
Also Read: Can You Sublimate on PVC
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to sublimate on modal fabric:
Items Required
| Product | Description | Product Link (N/A) |
| Sublimation printer | Use this for the sublimation process. | |
| Sublimation ink | Supports the sublimation process | |
| Heat press | For setting the design on your preferred surface. | |
| Modal fabric | The product you will use for the design. | |
| Sublimation paper | To help with the ink and design transfer | |
| Heat resistant tape | Use this to set the design on the fabric. |
Steps By Step Guide
- Pick your preferred design and then print it on the sublimation paper. You will need a specialized printer and ink for this process. Remember to also mirror your design before you begin the printing process.
- Preheat the heat press, and ensure it gets to the recommended temperature before you complete sublimating on the modal fabric.
- Cut the modal fabric so it achieves your preferred size and shape for the sublimation project.
- Set the sublimation paper face down on the modal fabric. You must also ensure the design faces the fabric for this process to complete.
- Secure the sublimation paper onto the modal fabric using a product like heat-resistant tape. Remember to smoothen out any wrinkles or marks that might compromise the design.
- Close the heat press and press for a few seconds for the design to set on your modal fabric.
- Once the time goes off, remove the modal fabric carefully from the heat press, and then release the sublimation paper.
Also Read: Which Side Of Mug To Print On?
Let the modal fabric cool for a few minutes before you can start handling it again.
Can You Sublimate on 50% Cotton 50% Modal?
Sublimation printing works best on fabrics that contain a specific amount of polyester content. That is because the sublimation process requires polyester fibers with ink to produce vibrant and long-lasting sublimation designs.
Even though a blend of 50% cotton and 50% modal fabric may support the ink transfer process, they results won’t be pleasing.
Cotton and modal fibers don’t have the same abilities as polyester when it comes to absorbing inks. Plus, the colors might also appear muted, and the design produced might be prone to fading issues.
You must perform a simple test print process using a small fabric sample to determine whether the results are suitable for your needs. If you are aiming for longevity and vibrance, go for materials that have a significant amount of polyester.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some FAQs a lot of people have:
Is Modal a Polyester Fabric?
No, modal is not a polyester fabric. Modal refers to a semi-synthetic cellulose fiber that is made using beech tree pulp. It also exists in the regenerated cellulose fibers category, which has the same properties as lyocell and rayon.
What Fabrics Can You Sublimate On?
There are various fabrics that you cannot sublimate on. These include nylon, spandex, olefin, acrylic, and rayon. These products can support the presence of the heat press process and the use of sublimation inks.
Can You Heat Press On Modal?
Yes, it’s possible to heat press on modal. The best temperature is 270°F and the pressing time should average at 10 seconds. You must also observe the heat press process for the best results.
Does Modal Fabric Burn or Melt?
No. It is difficult to set fire to thick woolen clothes, and they burn slowly. Fires in thick and heavy wooly fabrics usually go out by themselves. Modacrylic is regarded as a flame-resistant fiber, because it’s difficult to ignite, and it melts and pulls away from the flame.
Is Modal Fabric Quick Drying?
Modal fabrics look and feel like luxurious silk as they are comfortable, soft, and lightweight. Modal fibers are very pleasant to the touch. They are waster absorbent and dry quickly.
