is the ink water soluble?

[basenji4]

I need to know if the ink is water soluble.  I am wanting to make a photo quilt with the pictures printed on fabric

[Ciara_B]

The DJ 2050 takes the HP61 range of cartridges. The black is pigment based and the tricolor is dye based. I haven't heard before of folks using these inks for printing on fabrics.

I'm copying @Donal_M  on this post, as he has quite a bit of knowledge on inks and may have further inputs to add.....

Ciara

[Donal_M]

Hi,

Yes, the inks are water soluble but without being fixed to the fabric in some way, it's likely that the image will wash out and blur when washed.

Rather than print directly onto the fabric which will be very difficult in the first place, what might work better would be to print onto an iron transfer first and then iron that onto the fabric - this approach will fix the pigment or dye to the fabric giving a more durable print.

[Mark_T]

I agree with Donal that an iron on transfer is an option too, but from personal experience I can say that not all iron on transfers are created equal.  Some iron on transfers don't last a long time after repeated washings, so beware.  I found the best iron on transfers are those that are designed to work on dark fabrics.

[basenji4]

For what I am planning the iron ons are not an option.  Without a flat iron they do not work.  Also I have photo fabric sheets that I will be using so printing on the fabric will not be an issue. I guess I will try a sample and find out for myself if it works when washed.

[Donal_M]

I hope it works well for you. Do let the forum know how it goes - it may be useful for others.

[basenji4 · Accepted solution]

So if anyone asks again, here is the answer.  I printed out a photo on the printer fabric.  Washed it in cold water, then in hot water and a 3rd time in cold water.  Colors did not run, or fade.  

[Donal_M]

Hi,

Thanks' for the update.