Is dying flock an reasonable alternative to pigment transfers?
I'm very new to all this, and I have a (possibly very stupid) question. I'm trying to figure out what technique will give me the best quality for full-colour designs. Dye sub seems to give the best overall results on polyesther whites/lights in terms of colour and durability. The problem is that I think polyesther is a terrible material to wear and I think my customers will also only like 100% cotton shirts.
So that leaves me with pigment ink transfers. Or does it...? I've read somewhere that it's possible to dye a white flock transfer with sublimation ink, and press this onto any colour (light or dark) 100% cotton fabric. Ofcourse this seems to be missing the point of sublimation, which is the soft hand it gives. But I'm wondering how the quality of flock, dyed in this manner, compares to a normal transfer in terms of colour and durability. And also in terms of comfort and price. I suppose, since the flock is thick, comfort will be less, especially if the design is large. And as for the price, sublimation inks are almost 3 times as expensive.
So, my question is, is this an alternative that I should seriously consider? Or since i think polyesther is not an option, should I just go with pigment inks all the way?
Re: Is dying flock an reasonable alternative to pigment transfers?
Have you actually tried some samples of poly shirts? Some of the newer generation of poly performance shirts are actually very light and comfortable. I'd say at least get a sample of one before you dismiss dye sub entirely.
Re: Is dying flock an reasonable alternative to pigment transfers?
I've heard of this method (called Subliflock, I think), but only in passing; it doesn't seem to be in common use, for some reason. I imagine it would be fairly expensive - cost of the flock + the expensive dyesub inks + extra time; I can't say on the quality, though I am curious as well.
Re: Is dying flock an reasonable alternative to pigment transfers?
Quote:
Originally Posted by Twinge
I've heard of this method (called Subliflock, I think), but only in passing; it doesn't seem to be in common use, for some reason. I imagine it would be fairly expensive - cost of the flock + the expensive dyesub inks + extra time; I can't say on the quality, though I am curious as well.
I tried Subliflock and the results were fantastic. Product stayed on shirt and colors remained vibrant after many washings. Looking for a US source
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Is dying flock an reasonable alternative to pigment transfers? 
