AboutConnie Hester Expertise Quilting and applique expert.Can advise on the following topics:quilting, art quilts, quilt design and construction, machine and hand quilting, paper foundation piecing, machine piecing, hand piecing, raw edge applique, turned-edge applique and fiber art.
Experience Winning awards in international fiber and art competitions since 1983; http://www.conniehester.com/
BS,MS
See my work and books at http://www.conniehester.com/
Expert: Connie Hester Date: 11/11/2006 Subject: Photo transfers for quilting
Question Hi. I am currently making a 9 patch quilt for my boss for his Christmas present and will be incorporating some family photos. I have printed off some of the pictures onto an iron-on transfer. They look pretty shiny. Is this normal? I want to make sure that when I transfer the pictures that I will be able to sew on them as well.
Answer Yes, iron-on transfers are shiny and plastic-y, making the fabric stiff as well.
As for sewing over it, I would suggest that you work on a sample iron-on transfer/batting/batting sandwich before continuing with your plans. Depending on the type of sewing you have in mind, this may not be a good idea. Stitching will also create holes which will be permanent, and if they are too close together, they may even "cut" through the transfer and weaken it.
You didn't mention what kind of printer you used. If you have an Epson printer which uses Durabrite inks, you can print directly onto the fabric and create an image which does not alter the drape/feel of the fabric and which will be water-resistant and lightfast. Check through my past question responses which include many posts about printing onto fabric.
