Printing on cloth is a creative and practical way to personalise fabric for clothing, home décor, gifts or craft projects. Whether you want to add a logo to a T-shirt, create custom tote bags or decorate a cushion cover, there are several methods to transfer designs onto fabric. The right technique depends on the material, the complexity of the design and the equipment you have available.
In this guide, we explore the most common ways to print on cloth, explain what materials and tools you need and offer tips to help you get the best results every time.
Inkjet Transfer Paper
One of the easiest and most accessible methods for printing on cloth is using inkjet transfer paper. This method works well for light or dark cotton fabrics and requires only a standard inkjet printer and an iron.
Start by creating your design on your computer. Once you are happy with it, print it onto the transfer paper. If the design includes text, make sure to mirror the image before printing. This ensures the words appear the right way round when transferred.
After printing, cut around the design and place it face down on the fabric. Use a hot iron to press the design onto the material for the time specified in the instructions. Allow it to cool before peeling off the backing paper. The result is a clear and colourful image bonded to the fabric surface.
Sublimation Printing
Sublimation printing is ideal for polyester fabrics and synthetic blends. This method uses heat to transfer dye onto the fabric, producing vibrant and long-lasting colours that become part of the material rather than sitting on top.
To use sublimation, you need a special sublimation printer and compatible ink along with sublimation paper. Print your mirrored design onto the paper then place it on the fabric. Using a heat press set to the correct temperature, apply firm pressure for about 30 to 60 seconds. Once cooled, remove the paper to reveal the printed image.
Sublimation works best on light-coloured fabrics and will not show up well on dark or pure cotton materials. However, it offers excellent durability and a soft finish that feels like part of the cloth itself.
Screen Printing
Screen printing is a traditional method often used for bulk printing on textiles such as T-shirts or tote bags. It involves creating a stencil on a fine mesh screen then using a squeegee to push ink through the screen onto the fabric.
Although it takes more setup and space, screen printing produces sharp and bold results and works well for single-colour designs or layered images. You will need screens, photo emulsion, ink and a light source to expose the stencil. The ink is then cured using heat to make it washable.
This method is ideal for larger quantities or when you need a consistent design repeated multiple times.
Direct to Garment (DTG) Printing
DTG printing works much like a regular inkjet printer but prints directly onto fabric using specialised textile inks. It is suitable for detailed designs and full-colour images and works best on cotton garments.
You will need a DTG printer which is more expensive than home equipment but offers professional-quality prints without the need for transfers or screens. Once printed, the fabric is usually heat-pressed to cure the ink and set the image.
DTG printing is popular for print-on-demand clothing businesses because it requires no setup time and allows for individual customisation.
Block Printing and Hand Methods
For crafters and DIY enthusiasts, hand printing methods such as block printing or stamping can be a fun and artistic way to decorate cloth. This involves carving a design into a stamp or block, applying fabric paint and pressing it onto the material.
It works best on flat fabrics like linen or cotton and allows for repeated patterns or custom motifs. You can use ready-made stamps or create your own using linoleum blocks or foam. Once finished, the paint should be heat set with an iron to make the design permanent.
Preparation and Aftercare
Before printing on any cloth, wash and iron the fabric to remove sizing and creases. This ensures better ink adhesion and reduces shrinkage after printing. Always use a clean flat surface and test your method on scrap fabric if you are unsure how it will react.
After printing, allow the fabric to dry completely and follow the recommended heat-setting process if required. Wash printed items inside out on a gentle cycle to maintain the image quality for longer.
Final Thoughts
Printing on cloth is a rewarding process whether you are making a one-off item or starting a small business. From simple iron-on transfers to high-end digital prints, there is a method to suit every need and budget. By choosing the right technique for your fabric and design, you can create personalised and long-lasting items with professional results.