Fundamentals of Textile Design 3(2+1)

Lesson 29: Printing methods

Heat Transfer Printing

Heat transfer printing is a process in which designs are transferred to fabric from specially printed-paper by heat and pressure. Literally moving a design from one surface to another is known as transfer printing. The paper printed with designs using disperse dyes is used in this printing. The paper is placed with the print side of the paper touching the face of the fabric and is then covered with silicone-rubber sheet. The sandwich is subjected to high pressure at a temperature of 200°C for a few seconds in a transfer printing machine, during which the print vaporizes and migrates from the paper to the fabric.

The advantages of heat transfer printing are better penetration and clarity of design, lower production costs and elimination of pollution problems.