Should I wash my fabric before transferring a photo? Elizabeth has a couple of questions about fabric and photo transfers. Ami Simms is happy to help.

What is the idea behind not washing the fabric prior to applying the photo transfer? And can I use any other fabric besides the Springmaid Southern Belle that I bought on your site?

- Elizabeth N.

Ami Simms responds:

It's best if the fabric is not washed prior to transferring. The combination of the weave of the fabric, the thread count, and the texture is what makes the fabric so wonderful in accepting the photo transfer. In short, the smoother the fabric, the better the transfer.

Washing the fabric will make it slightly softer and will remove the sizing. It will also allow the cotton fibers to expand and "relax." This makes the surface less smooth, and hence not as good to transfer onto.

You can always wash the fabric after the transfer has been made, so don't wash it before.

Yes, other fabrics can be used. However, I have found nothing that does as good a job as Springmaid Southern Belle, which is why that is all I carry.

Answer copyright © 2001 by Ami Simms

Ami's online store is one of our Merchant Partners. Be sure to stop by to see her carefully-researched selection of photo transfer products. And don't miss Ami's Mommy's Fabric from Marcus Brothers! And oh, yes, I think there's something on the site you'll enjoy about a very special dog, too. - Sharon

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