I have done labels on fabric printed from my computer. I use Bubble Jet on the fabric, following directions. I sometimes do up a large piece of fabric so to be ready when I need another label, or even to redo if I make a boo-boo. I originally used freezer paper until I got a new printer (Epson) and had trouble with that, paper and fabric separating. So, now I spraybaste my fabric to a sheet of copy paper and that seems to work better. After printing, Let the label dry well before ironing it and use a dry iron.

Quilts have been washed many times and while the printing isn't as crisp as new, it is still quite good.

I am sure others here will have their own experiences and methods to tell you about. Just as in all areas of quilting, what works for one, may not work for another. So good luck with your project.

Theresa

Last Christmas I made a little mini wall quilt for my dearest friend. I used my regular printer, but then hand embroidered the words. It took a lot of time, but was well worth the effort. Even tho I know this piece won't be washed, it certainly could be - over and over.

oh..now I don't know how to change my post, but I just used MS word to set up the words, that way I could pick the font and size. and I got the fabric in a package at my local quilt shop. It has a backing that you actually peel off after the printing and then it's just plain fabric! I can take a snap of the package for you, if you like.

Sue, plan to do a test first if you use a white-on-white fabric. The printing on some of the WOWs may interfere with the printing you want to do on your home printer. A plain white bleached muslin may be better for printing words on. This is just my thinking and supposition - I haven't done any printing on fabric myself yet. YRMV.

Sue, you can have someone with an embroidery machine do it for you. I think Robbi has a machine that uses large hoops so it could be done in one hooping. I have a machine, but mine only goes to 5x7.

I use my printer to make labels. I don't use the specialty printer fabric sheets that they sell. Instead I use regular quilting fabric that I pre-wash (as I don't want it to shrink afterwards and potentially distort the printing). I have used solids and WOW's with really good results. I have only used 8.5x11/letter size, but I wouldn't hesitate to run legal size thru my printer. Once I complete a test of the text on paper. I cut out freezer paper the size of the sheet of paper. The fabric can be the same size or smaller. Mine is always smaller, since I don't want to waste fabric. I also don't use Retayne or any other setting agent, since I found it wasn't needed (I repeatedly washed samples and there was no bleeding or significant fading). I use a HP printer and HP ink.

You could also look into having it printed for you by Spoonflower, or some other custom printer.

Good luck.

Thanks for all the hints. I did just find the Spoonflower site and sent them an email and will see what they say. I have Bubblejet and may try it and wash it.

Jt - I have an HP printer also, but the color ink is dye based. Have you used color?

Thanks again! Sue

No, I have not tried color ink, only black.

Another idea might be a local place that does custom printing or custom screen printing. Also, maybe check etsy for custom fabric printers. I know there are quite a few on there that will do labels, but not sure about a block size quote.

I haven't looked into any of this myself, so will be interested to hear what you end up deciding and how it works out.