Sewing With Inkjet Fabric Sheets
Selection and Uses for this Versatile Material in Fabric Crafts
Inkjet fabric sheets are versatile enough for all sorts of sewing projects.
Inkjet fabric is so versatile. You’ll find this is useful for many sewing projects. The trick is to choose the right one for the job since different kinds are available. These can be cut and sewn just like any other material.
Types of Inkjet Fabrics
There are several types of inkjet fabric sheets. For totes, pillows, and clothing, the best choice by far is 100% cotton. Examples include June Tailor’s cotton inkjet fabric sheets and the Electric Quilt Company’s premium cotton satin fabric sheets. These will stand up to wear and tear.
For some projects, a lightweight inkjet fabric works just fine. Among the suitable choices is a silk organza, sold under the Jacquard’s brand, and a sheer, premium cotton lawn with a luxurious texture from Electric Quilt. These are perfect for projects that need to drape.
Electric Quilt also has inkjet fabric sheets made specifically for photo projects, such as memory pillows.
Fabric Qualities
Most of these inkjet fabrics will be colorfast and washable. However, there are a few exceptions. For that reason, read the care instructions before buying the fabric sheets.
Some of the inkjet fabric sheets are fusible with brands including Electric Quilt and June Tailor’s. These are great for appliqué, photo quilt blocks, T-shirts, and fabric postcards. They can also be used to embellish clothing.
For best results, stitch around the edges of the appliqués after they’re fused. This extra step will ensure that your project will last longer.
Sizes of Inkjet Fabric Sheets
Inkjet fabric sheets come in several sizes. The most typical is 8¼ by 11 inches; 4 by 6-inch sheets are also available. For small projects, the latter is more economical.
Printing Inkjet Fabric Sheets
Whatever size sheets you use, load them properly into the printer. In other words, be sure the printed image appears on the fabric rather than on the paper backing.
For printing, use downloaded images, your own photos and art, or software, such as the Click-n-Craft Vintage Workshop CD’s from Indygo Junction.
After the printing is done, allow the sheet to dry thoroughly. Peel the paper backing from the fabric. This can be tricky. Washable fabric sheets can be soaked in a shallow pan of water for a few minutes. Then, the paper should come right off. Once the fabric is dry, treat it like you would any other material so far as cutting and sewing is concerned.
Other Uses for Inkjet Fabrics
You can easily add monograms to gifts with inkjet fabric sheets. Use print shop software or the WordArt function in Microsoft Word to spell out the recipient’s name or initials. Print this onto the inkjet fabric sheets. Then, use the fabric as appliqués for clothing, bags, towels, and stuffed animals.
Inkjet fabric projects are wonderful for decorating. Suitable items include wall hangings, throws, decorative pillows, and lap quilts.
