ljptexas

I need advice in setting a label, with an iron, with wording (so it won't fade) for my #2 DGDs graduation quilt. I keep forgetting.... Just printed on my printer...

Prism99

The best way is to use pigment-based dyes in the printer, as these dyes are water insoluble. If your printer uses ink-based dyes, there is no way to make them absolutely permanent. Some say that heat-setting helps.

I read recently where one quilter says she irons wax paper on the label and then lifts it off. Apparently the wax helps preserve the ink. If you do this, I would do it on both sides of the label. Also, be aware that you need to use parchment paper between the wax paper and your iron; otherwise the paper can stick to your iron and burn there.

Did you use regular fabric to print the label? Or is it one of the treated fabrics?

Edit: Here is a link to an article that explains why pigment-based dyes work better:
http://www.gloriahansen.com/weblog/?p=6060

MaggieLou

I don't know about other printers but one of my printers has one black cartridge that is pigment and one that isn't. The cartridge should say if it's pigment. I think it's the Canon that has the pigment cartridge.

Rose_P

There's a fixative spray that artists use. I think it's acrylic, and it would stiffen the label somewhat, but would make the ink much more stable. I don't know what happens when you wash it, but you could experiment with a small swatch. There are several brands. I'd start by searching Amazon or some other merchant that has reviews. You can then read what others have used it for and what they think of the products.