Question

What is heat transfer printing ?

Hint:

Think of a design printed on paper first and then moved to a synthetic fabric using heat and pressure.

Answer 1

Step 1: Definition:
Heat transfer printing is a method in which a design is first printed on paper and then moved to fabric using heat and pressure.

Step 2: How the design is first made:
The design is printed on special transfer paper. The inks contain disperse dyes. Gravure or offset printing is used for this step.

Step 3: How the transfer happens:
The printed paper is laid face down on the fabric. It is pressed at about 180-210 degrees Celsius for 20-60 seconds. The disperse dyes turn to vapour (sublimation) and settle into the fabric.

Step 4: Where it is used:
This method suits polyester and other synthetic fabrics well. It gives sharp, detailed prints and needs no washing or drying afterwards.

Final Answer:
Heat transfer printing is a dry printing method where a paper print is transferred to fabric by heat and pressure.