Photo quilts?
 

So my folks are celebrating retirement with a trip to see and photograph the many waterfalls of Canada. Mother talked about a waterfall themed quilt from their photos.

Have any of you done something like this? What would you use to transfer photos to fabric? I have an inkjet printer and I've seen printable fabric and transfers out there. Do you have a recommendation for which type or brand to use? How does it hold up to washing and wear?

I normally use Bubble Jet Set on the fabric and leave sit overnight after printing, then a good press with a hot iron, but be careful not to scorch. A bottle goes a long way, also there are recipes out there you can google to make your own, though I haven't tried them yet.

Have also used the purchased treated and trimmed ones with good results, but they are expensive. I find I like to print with a good depth of colour - sometimes printed twice - as the fibres will turn with washing and give a washed out effect. Otherwise no issues with washing.

From what I read, the inkjet ink does fade after a few washing. I might try to find someone who can print the photos the fabric using professional ink that might wear a little better. Wall hangings seldom need washing but bed quilts do. Sounds like a beautiful quilt.

Best option is to use Spoonflower -- submit your photos to them & have them printed out on Fat Quarters. It will last much longer than any product you could use on your home printer (and that's assuming you have a really high quality home printer). If you don't mind the fading over time, I agree with Gay that Bubble Jet Set is the best option for DIY fabric printing.

I would pay spoonflower. The quilt will be a conversation piece, about the trip, about the quilt, about you. Make it great, not just average.