As a supplier of 90gsm Fast Dry Sublimation Paper, I often receive inquiries from customers about its compatibility with different fabrics, especially spandex. In this blog post, I'll delve into the question of whether 90gsm Fast Dry Sublimation Paper can be used for printing on spandex, exploring the technical aspects, potential challenges, and best practices.
Understanding Sublimation Printing
Sublimation printing is a process that uses heat and pressure to transfer dye onto a substrate. In this process, the dye changes from a solid to a gas without passing through the liquid state, a phenomenon known as sublimation. This method is popular for its ability to produce high - quality, durable, and vibrant prints on a variety of materials.
The 90gsm Fast Dry Sublimation Paper is designed to hold the sublimation dyes effectively during the printing process and then release them onto the fabric under heat and pressure. It dries quickly, which is beneficial for high - volume printing operations as it reduces waiting time between prints.
Spandex: A Unique Fabric
Spandex, also known as Lycra or elastane, is a synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity. It can stretch up to 5 - 7 times its original length and return to its original shape without losing its form. This property makes it a popular choice for sportswear, swimwear, and form - fitting clothing.
However, spandex also has some characteristics that pose challenges for sublimation printing. Firstly, spandex has a relatively low melting point compared to some other synthetic fabrics. Excessive heat during the sublimation process can cause the spandex to melt or lose its elasticity. Secondly, spandex is often blended with other fibers such as cotton or polyester, which can affect the sublimation process.
Can 90gsm Fast Dry Sublimation Paper Be Used for Printing on Spandex?
The short answer is yes, but with some considerations.
Positive Aspects
- Dye Transfer: The 90gsm Fast Dry Sublimation Paper can effectively transfer dyes onto spandex. The paper's coating is designed to hold the sublimation inks well and release them evenly when exposed to the right temperature and pressure. This results in a relatively smooth and consistent print on the spandex fabric.
- Drying Speed: The fast - drying feature of the paper is an advantage when printing on spandex. Since spandex is often used in clothing that requires quick turnaround times, the ability to print multiple designs in a short period is crucial. The 90gsm Fast Dry Sublimation Paper allows for rapid printing, which can increase productivity.
Challenges
- Heat Sensitivity: As mentioned earlier, spandex is heat - sensitive. The sublimation process typically requires high temperatures (around 180 - 200°C or 356 - 392°F) to transfer the dyes. If the temperature is too high or the exposure time is too long, the spandex can be damaged. It is essential to carefully control the heat settings during the transfer process.
- Blended Fabrics: If the spandex is blended with other fibers, the sublimation process can be more complex. Different fibers have different sublimation temperatures and dye - absorption properties. For example, if the blend contains cotton, which does not sublimate well, the overall print quality may be affected.
Best Practices for Printing on Spandex with 90gsm Fast Dry Sublimation Paper
- Test Prints: Before starting a large - scale printing project, it is advisable to conduct test prints on small pieces of the spandex fabric. This allows you to adjust the heat, pressure, and time settings to achieve the best results without risking damage to the entire batch of fabric.
- Temperature and Pressure Control: Use a heat press with precise temperature and pressure controls. Start with a lower temperature and gradually increase it while monitoring the print quality and the condition of the spandex. A typical temperature range for printing on spandex might be around 160 - 180°C (320 - 356°F) for a shorter time (around 10 - 15 seconds).
- Pre - treatment: Some spandex fabrics may benefit from pre - treatment to improve dye absorption. However, be cautious as some pre - treatments may also affect the fabric's elasticity.
Other Sublimation Paper Options
If you find that the 90gsm Fast Dry Sublimation Paper is not the best fit for your spandex printing needs, we also offer other options:
- 120gsm Fast Dry Sublimation Paper: This paper has a higher gram - per - square - meter (gsm) rating, which means it can hold more ink. It may be suitable for more detailed or high - saturation prints on spandex.
- 80gsm Fast Dry Sublimation Paper: With a lower gsm than the 90gsm paper, it is lighter and may be more suitable for thinner spandex fabrics or when a lighter ink transfer is desired.
- 55gsm Fast Dry Sublimation Paper: This is the lightest option among our sublimation papers. It is ideal for applications where a very light touch of ink is needed on spandex, such as for delicate patterns.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 90gsm Fast Dry Sublimation Paper can be used for printing on spandex, but it requires careful consideration of the fabric's properties and proper control of the sublimation process. By following the best practices and conducting test prints, you can achieve high - quality prints on spandex.
If you are interested in our 90gsm Fast Dry Sublimation Paper or any of our other products, feel free to contact us to discuss your specific printing requirements. We are here to help you find the best solution for your sublimation printing needs.
References
- "Sublimation Printing Technology" by Printing Industry Press
- "The Science of Synthetic Fibers" by Fiber Research Institute
