Setting color in fabric
 

I don't know the answer but have wondered myself. I'll be watching for some info.

If you used the packaged fabric for the printer the instructions are on the pkg. If you just printed it on your own fabric with no preprinting prep you may have a difficult time getting it to stay. With the pkg fabric sheets the iron setting is crucial as well as when and how long to rinse the prints. You can go to utube for lots of info and even just put it into google for info.

if you used your own fabric hopefully you prepared it for dyeing- by prewashing-with detergent- dried-no fabric softener-
and used good (permenent) ink in your printer- the re=fills & generic cartridges are water soluble-and wash out
after allowing the ink to cure (soak into the fibers & dry) heat set with your iron on cotton- place a (pressing cloth) over the picture (like a square of muslin)
if you used pre-packaged fabric printer sheets- you need to follow the instructions on the package- each different brand has their own requirements/instructions-
when i make my own i usually set them aside for 24 hours (to cure) then heat set- after cooling take to sink and run cold water through- some excess ink may rinse out but the picture should stay 'sharp & clear'
HP & Epson printers offer the best choices in inks that are permenent and work well for this.

I'll be watching this thread closely. What a great questiion. Thanks for asking. (No, I don't know the answer)

I have never used this product but I have seen it recommended in a lot of online sites for printing on fabrics. http://www.google.com/products/catal...d=0CDcQ8wIwAA#

I use bubble jet set or even with heat setting mine would wash out.

I've been told by Ironing it works to set it.

Very few home ink jet printers use pigment based (permanent) color ink. The black ink is, but the color inks are almost always dye based, and thus water soluble...even the 'name brand' cartridges.

the Epson printers offer a good pigment based ink for their printers. i've read many (comparisons, recommendations) on printers to use- and results- according to all of the studies i've come across they recommend the HP & Epson printers - preparing the fabric for dyeing-and heat setting are a must.
i've used an HP printer for years-and have had good results with the ink staying sharp & clear for a long time- there have been a few that have faded with time though. one way to deal with fading is to (touch up) with permenent fabric markers which come in many colors or inktense pencils.