How to Heat Set Screen Printed Sweatshirts Using Dryer Method

Screen printing is a common way of customizing clothing, including sweatshirts. However, to ensure that the print lasts a long time, it is essential to heat set it properly. Doing so will ensure that the print remains vibrant and does not peel or fade after several washes. In this article, we will show you how to heat set screen printed sweatshirts using a dryer method.

Preparing Your Sweatshirt

Before you start heat setting your screen printed sweatshirt, it is essential to prepare it properly. First, you need to turn the sweatshirt inside out. This is because when you expose the print directly to heat, it may cause the ink to stick to the other side of the fabric, leading to unwanted smudging.

Next, you need to ensure that there is nothing else inside the dryer that can rub against the print during the heat setting process. This is important to prevent any damage to the print.

Setting Up the Dryer

After preparing your sweatshirt, it is time to set up the dryer to the appropriate heat setting. Start by selecting a low to medium setting on your dryer. Make sure that the heat setting is not too high, as this can cause the print to crack or burn.

If your dryer has a setting for 'delicates' or 'knits,' this is the ideal setting to use. These settings use lower temperatures and gentler tumbling actions that are perfect for heat setting screen printed sweatshirts.

Heat Setting Your Sweatshirt

Once you have set up the dryer, it is time to heat set your screen printed sweatshirt. Place the sweatshirt inside the dryer, making sure that it is not too wrinkled or folded. If necessary, you can add a few towels to help absorb moisture and prevent wrinkles.

Turn on the dryer and let it run for about 30 minutes. During this time, the heat from the dryer will penetrate the sweatshirt, activating the ink and bonding it to the fabric. The tumbling action of the dryer will also help distribute the heat evenly, ensuring that the print sets correctly.

Checking the Results

After 30 minutes, turn off the dryer and remove the sweatshirt. Check the print carefully to ensure that it has set correctly. If the print seems to stick or peel off, you may need to repeat the heat setting process for a longer time.

If everything looks good, turn the sweatshirt right-side-out and run it through a cold rinse cycle in your washing machine. This will help remove any residual ink that may have not bonded completely to the fabric. After washing, hang the sweatshirt to dry or tumble dry on a low heat setting, but avoid the high heat setting.

Caring for Your Screen Printed Sweatshirt

To ensure that your screen printed sweatshirt lasts a long time, it is important to follow proper care instructions. Always wash your sweatshirt inside out, using cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid using fabric softeners, bleach, or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the print.

Additionally, never iron the print directly, as this can melt the ink and cause permanent damage. If you need to iron the sweatshirt, do so by turning it inside out and ironing on the reverse side.

Conclusion

Heat setting is an essential step in screen printing and is crucial to ensuring that your print lasts a long time. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can heat set your screen printed sweatshirt using a dryer method and ensure that your sweatshirt is vibrant and long-lasting. Remember to always take care of your screen printed sweatshirt, and it will serve you well for many years to come.