I used my printer to print a label for my DD quilt. She washed the quilt and the only part that remained was my signature and the little red hearts which I had done with the Micron Pigma Pen. I was quite concerned as I have "printed" my labels before and no one has said anything. (Maybe they haven't washed them yet) If you think about it, when a drop hits a printed page the text runs (DUH). So.... I don't have an embroidery machine and I really HATE writing labels out by hand. I have nice handwriting but not when it comes to writing on fabric (Yes, I stabilize the fabric with freezer paper). Maybe I should quit being so obsessed with neatness and just hand print them. I have been quilting for 13 years and have never had this come up. How do ya'll do your labels?

I print my labels...using a good HP printer. let the label set and 'cure' for 24 hours then heat set it; cure it for another 24 hours then i run cold water through it to make sure it is going to last. if it fades at all i either go over it with a micron pen or start over. if there is alot of ink involved in the label i may heat set and cure it over and over for a week before i test it; i have had pretty good luck with my labels lasting.

I use the fabric sheets or roll that is made for printing with an inkjet printer and I haven't had any problems. ( You let them sit for 10 minutes and then rinse with cold water.) They also sell a liquid that works with your own fabric. I am sure there are other ways, but I don't know of anything for laser printers.

I have posted how I make my labels before on this board. Not sure if I included that you shouldn't use the BEST quality printing but something lesser so there isn't any excess ink to run when quilt is washed.

ali

Fabric needs to be pretreated, either with Bubble Jet Set or using commercially prepared sheets. Otherwise, all writing should be done with a Pigma pen or other method that is permanent (prepared according to manufacturer's suggestions!)

I've been printing my labels for nearly 20 years on muslin or other cotton fabric through an HP inkjet printer, long before special tools/fabrics were developed for this process, and I wash my quilts all the time with no problem.

I DO let the label 'cure' for weeks before that first wash of them, maybe that's the difference.

Jan in VA

Often, I format my labels in a word processing program (chose a clear, bold font) and then use a lightbox to trace the letters with pigma pen. I don't have a laser printer, and that way they are neater than if I write freehand.

I have an embroidery machine, and use that to create my labels.

I think I may do this. I had printed the label on muslin and ironed it heavily as I was ironing 1/4 for the hem. So it was set with the iron and probably a week later I mailed it to my daughter. I didn't ask her why she washed it right away. She did IM me a picture of HER cat cuddled into it not many minutes after it was out of the box so I guess all cats love a good quilt. Thanks for your input. I can always get a question answered here.