With time, the aesthetic sense of people is improving. Most moms, business owners, and shoppers want their daily items must have sublimation designs. Sublimation printing applies to water bottles, modal fabrics, shirts, burlap products, etc.
But can you sublimate on Burlap Yes, you can sublimate on Burlap with a simple sublimation printing process. Burlap is a coarse woven fabric derived from the natural fibers of the jute plant.
Owing to its high strength and durability, it is used to manufacture bags, ribbons, sacks, and flags. Sublimating these items can enhance their look and grace.
Read more: Sublimation on silicone
Considerations Before Sublimating on Burlap
Before sublimating on Burlap, there are several important considerations to keep in mind to ensure successful and satisfactory results:
Burlap Quality
As Burlap is available in various types and quality. Some burlap products have loose fabric woven structure, which is not feasible for sublimation printing as the sublimation ink bleed out.
Therefore, Check the quality of the burlap fabric you are using.
Furthermore, ensure it is free from stains, tears, or loose threads that could interfere with the sublimation process or affect the final design.
Pre-Washing
It is better to buy a fresh blank; if it is not possible, you can employ a personal burlap bag or sack.
Hence, it is advisable to pre-wash the burlap fabric before sublimation to remove any sizing or impurities that might be present.
However, some burlap fabrics may lose their texture after washing, so testing a small piece first is the professional approach.
Limited Color Range
The Burlap fabric is naturally brown, which can influence the final appearance of the sublimation print. So, choose sublimation ink that complements the Burlap’s color, or opt for lighter colors for better visibility on darker Burlap.
Burlap Products for Sublimation Printing
Burlap has high strength and durability, which make it usable for various purposes, such as bags and sacks to transport and store various goods, including grains, potatoes, coffee beans, and other agricultural products.
Burlap’s rustic and natural look makes it a popular choice for crafting, home decor, DIY projects like burlap banners, etc.
Burlap can be used in creating unique, textured home furnishings like curtains and cushions.
Burlap’s natural look and environmentally-friendly properties have contributed to its popularity in various industries, particularly in crafts, eco-friendly packaging, and rustic-themed events and decorations.
Read more: Can you sublimate on plastic?
How to Sublimate on Burlap?
Step 1: Gather Materials
Before starting the sublimation process on Burlap, ensure you have all the necessary materials ready. You will need the following items;
Step 2: Design Your Sublimation Image
Switch on your computer and create or select the design you want to transfer onto the Burlap. Many software are available online, like Canva, to create stunning sublimation designs.
But, ensure that the design dimensions match the size of the burlap piece.
Step 3: Print the Image on Sublimation Paper
After finalizing the design, send its copy to a sublimation printer to print your design on sublimation paper.
Meanwhile, check the sublimation ink level and the correct printing settings for exciting results.
Step 4: Pre-Press Burlap Substrate
Although there is less chance of wrinkles on the surface of the Burlap blank, pressing it with iron removes small lines. Pre-pressing helps eliminate moisture and wrinkles, ensuring a smooth surface for sublimation.
Step 5: Preheat Heat Press
Switch on the heat press and allow it to preheat to the required temperature.
The sublimation printing temperature for Burlap typically falls within the range of 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 205°C).
However, the exact temperature may vary depending on the specific type and quality of the burlap fabric.
Step 6: Place Sublimation Transfer Paper on Burlap blank
When the surface becomes smooth, carefully place the sublimation paper having the printed design on the burlap fabric. Position it in the center after measuring the dimensions of the burlap fabric.
Moreover, fix the design paper with the help of heat resistant tap to prevent the paper from shifting during the transfer process. Now, pick this set and place it on the lower platen of the Heat press.
Step 7: Press Burlap with Sublimation Paper
Close the heat press and start the sublimation process. The heat and pressure will cause the sublimation ink on the paper to turn into gas, which will then penetrate the burlap fabric, resulting in a permanent transfer of the design. Also, keep the pressure at medium to low.
Step 8: Remove Heat Press and Peel Paper
Once the sublimation process is complete (according to the time set), open the heat press carefully and remove the Burlap with the sublimation paper. Be cautious, as the fabric and paper will be hot.
Step 9: Allow the Burlap to Cool
After the sublimation printing on the burlap blank is complete, place the sublimated Burlap on a flat surface and allow it to cool down. In this way, the sublimation ink will bond strongly with the fabric.
Now, pick the Burlap and check for imperfections in the final print. Store the finished product or deliver it to your customer if applicable.
Read more: Sublimation on the Modal Fabric
Tips to Sublimate on burlap products
Before starting sublimation printing, place a protective paper between the burlap fabric and the heat press to prevent ink residue from sticking.
Pay close attention to the dwell time during sublimation printing on Burlap. Dwell time refers to the duration the heat press is in contact with the burlap fabric.
Use the right amount of sublimation ink. Otherwise, ink may cause bleeding or smudging.
Keep the pressure medium evenly distributed throughout the surface of the burlap substrate to have a smooth and consistent sublimation print.
If you follow these expert tips, you will observe a positive change in your sublimation prints.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can You Sublimate on Burlap Flags?
Yes, you can sublimate burlap flags, but you have to choose one with a tight weaving pattern and is free from loose fibers.
Can You Sublimate on Burlap Ribbon?
Yes, sublimation on burlap ribbon is surely possible. Burlap ribbons are a hot trend to decorate everyday households.
Is Burlap a polyester?
No, Burlap is made of jute plant fibers and is coarse and rough as compared to Polyester or cotton.
What is polyester burlap for sublimation?
Consider our 100% Polyester Faux Burlap, opposite of Jute Burlap. The only similarity is their appearance. It took years to get the look and weight just right so that the fabric could look just like real tightly woven Burlap, but with several key improvements when compared to Jute:
- Faux Burlap is soft to the touch.
- Faux Burlap is better at resisting wrinkles and stains.
- Faux Burlap doesn’t shed (produce lint) or have a scent.
- Faux Burlap is made of Polyester and is machine washable and dryer safe.
Can you sublimate on burlap bags?
Yes, you can sublimate on burlap bags using the sublimation printing process. Burlap bags provide:
- A unique and rustic canvas for sublimation designs.
- Making them popular for personalized gifts.
- Promotional items.
- Eco-friendly packaging solutions.
What is polyester burlap fabric?
Faux Burlap is a 100% Polyester Washable Imitation Burlap. Made of 100% Polyester but looks and feels just like the Jute Natural Fabric and Color. This Burlap is well used in the event industry for its reusable application. Great for party rentals and event planners.
What temperature and time for sublimation on burlap?
General sublimation temperature and time instructions for burlap fabric is Preheat the heat press to 390oF-405oF, set the time to 40-60 sec and set pressure to medium-heavy.
Can you sublimate on burlap stockings?
Yes! The above article explains how to sublimate on a burlap stocking, but because it’s a natural fabric made from jute, the results may not look as vibrant as they would on a material with polyester content.
How do you print names on jute bags?
Sublimation printing is the feasible method to print names and logos on the jute bags through heat press.
Read more: Sublimation on the Nylon
Conclusion
Yes – you can sublimate on Burlap. With its rustic surface and durable nature, Burlap presents itself as an incredible canvas for sublimation printing. By following essential tips and considerations, such as selecting high-quality Burlap, pre-washing if necessary, and using appropriate sublimation ink and heat press settings, you can achieve inspiring and exciting sublimation prints on Burlap.