Flannel printed blankets can achieve thermal transfer printing using a method known as sublimation printing. Sublimation printing is a heat-based process that allows for the transfer of intricate and full-color designs onto polyester-based fabrics like flannel. Here's how thermal transfer printing through sublimation works for flannel printed blankets:
Design Preparation: The process begins with the creation or selection of a design that is intended for printing on the flannel blanket. This design is typically created digitally on a computer and should be in a format suitable for sublimation printing.
Printing on Transfer Paper: The selected design is printed onto special sublimation transfer paper using sublimation ink. Sublimation inks are unique in that they can transform from a solid to a gas under heat without passing through a liquid phase. The design should be a mirror image of the final print.
Positioning the Transfer: The sublimation transfer paper with the printed design is placed onto the surface of the flannel fabric. It is important to ensure that the transfer paper aligns correctly with the desired location on the blanket.
Heat Press Transfer: A heat press machine is used to apply controlled heat and pressure to the sublimation transfer paper and flannel fabric. The heat causes the sublimation ink to transform into a gas, and the pressure forces the gas into the flannel fabric's fibers. This process allows the ink to bond with the fabric at a molecular level.
Cooling and Setting: After the heat press transfer, the fabric is allowed to cool, which helps the ink solidify within the fabric. This step is crucial for the design to become permanent and resistant to fading or washing.
Quality Check: Once the fabric has cooled and the design is set, a quality check is performed to ensure the print is accurate, vibrant, and free of imperfections.
Sublimation printing is known for its ability to produce high-resolution, full-color, and long-lasting designs on polyester-based textiles like flannel. It offers several advantages, including:
Detailed and complex designs: Sublimation printing can reproduce intricate and colorful designs with fine details.
Durability: Sublimated prints are resistant to fading, washing, and wear, ensuring that the design remains vibrant over time.
Soft hand feel: The printed design becomes part of the fabric, resulting in a soft and smooth hand feel.
Breathability: Sublimation printing allows the fabric to maintain its breathability, which is essential for flannel blankets' warmth and comfort.