How to set permanent marker on fabric & plastic is a question among those that want to decorate fabric, including t-shirts with this marker. The good thing is that there are permanent markers that can help you do the job and create a masterpiece. So, if you’re looking to design plastic as well as fabric, keep reading and check out the following methods to help you with your project. In this post, we’re highlighting some of them. But don’t worry, as they’re not difficult at all. There are some materials that you can also readily find at home.
Setting permanent marker on fabric
In the following, we’re going to use permanent markers, like Sharpie pens or any permanent marker that you have on hand. In addition, you must prepare the things to use, such as fabric/t-shirt, colorless fabric paint, iron, and a fixative spray. There are also stained fabric markers that are great for creating permanent ink on t-shirts and other fabric material.
1. Iron method
Before you proceed, you must wash and then dry the shirt you’re using. This is important before you write or draw on the fabric with the permanent marker. However, you may want to treat your fabric with a sizing chemical if it is new. This will help serve as a protective filler that can help to resist stains. After coating the new shirt with this chemical, you must wash and dry the fabric so that the ink will be absorbed in it.
If you want to preserve the ink on the shirt or fabric, though, you can use heat. But then, ensure that the ink is already dry before doing this setting method with iron. To start, use an iron that will preserve the ink marker.
Plug it on and set it to the hottest setting. This is especially true if you’re cotton. When hot enough, you can start ironing the areas that you’ve decorated with ink. Be sure to do it on the front and back portion of the cloth. Then, you must keep pressing for five minutes on both sides.
Alternatively, you can do the heat-setting method by heating the shirt or fabric using a clothes dryer. You must use the hottest setting in it for about minutes.
2. Fabric paint
If you want to preserve your design on fabric, you can also paint the area using colorless fabric paint. When you’ve washed and dried the fabric and you’re done designing it, you may want to use a transparent fabric paint, which can effectively preserve the art you’ve created.
However, remember to paint both sides (front and back) of the fabric’s decorated area. Take note, however, that the shirt or fabric might harden or stiffen when you have applied paint on it. So, for clothes, you might want to opt for soft fabric paint, 3D fabric paint, or textile color fabric paint.
3. Fixative chemical
A fixative product is another alternative for setting the permanent marker. However, check that you’re using a fixative for cold water. There are also fixatives, which are mixable with water, that you can use to spray onto the fabric.
When you’re done with the design, you can get your fixative, and then spray it on the design. On the other hand, some people also claim the effectiveness of soaking their fabric for a couple of minutes and then letting it dry in order to allow the ink to set on their shirt.
Keeping permanent marker on plastic
Permanent markers are versatile and they can also be used on plastic. However, one might smudge when you write with it on plastic. Don’t worry because you can prevent it from happening.
Choose the correct permanent markers. Now, there are many types of markers that can work well with plastic surfaces. These include oil-based markers, which can be used in writing on plastic. They are dependable because they can stay longer on the surface and create a glossy finish. One of them is the Phosea Acrylic White Permanent Markers.
Before you proceed, clean the surface with a dampened soft cloth to remove the dirt, dust, oil, and grime on plastic before drawing or writing. Some people also use alcohol in cleaning the surface. In any case, see to it that you let it dry completely.
Sand your plastic with a 120-grit sandpaper for some teeth and texture on the surface. This will make it rough to make it suitable for drawing/writing on plastic. Using it will allow the ink to be absorbed in the plastic better. Once done, you can clean the area with a wet piece of cloth and then dry it completely.
Now, you can start decorating the plastic with a permanent marker. When done, ensure that you seal your design with a clear nail polish. Alternatively, you can apply matte polyurethane. Allow the surface to dry. Sealing makes the ink shine and it sets the marker perfectly well on the surface.
Again, writing on plastic may be challenging because it is not very absorbent when compared to a canvas or paper. Ink also takes time before it dries out completely. However, the steps that we’ve shared above may be enough to help you with the process.
Final Thoughts
Permanent markers are effective for almost all surfaces and they help anyone explore their creative side. These markers can also deliver shiny and reflective colors, which can last longer when compared to other colors.
There are several methods you can use to set permanent marker both on fabric and plastic. So, now, you can explore your creativity even more and create wonderful art pieces at home whether for a school project or a client project.
We hope that this article on how to set permanent marker both on fabric & plastic can help you accomplish your task.
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