Patent ID: 6071368
Filing Date: 2000-06-06
Classification: B41M,D06P,Y10S,Y10T

Abstract:
A method for applying a stable printed image onto a fabric substrate comprising the steps of:providing a multi-layer ink transfer sheet comprising a backing layer, a detachable release layer positioned on said backing layer, and an ink receiving layer positioned on said release layer, said ink receiving layer comprising at least one quaternary ammonium salt;providing an ink composition comprising at least one anionic coloring agent and an ink vehicle;delivering said ink composition onto said ink receiving layer of said ink transfer sheet in order to form a printed image on said ink transfer sheet, said anionic coloring agent in said ink composition binding to said quaternary ammonium salt in order to fix said coloring agent to said ink transfer sheet;placing said ink transfer sheet on said fabric substrate so that said ink receiving layer of said ink transfer sheet is in contact with said fabric substrate;applying heat to said ink transfer sheet while said ink transfer sheet is positioned on said fabric substrate in an amount sufficient to cause said release layer and said ink receiving layer thereon to adhere to said fabric substrate; andremoving said backing layer from said ink transfer sheet in order to separate said release layer from said backing layer, said release layer and said ink receiving layer remaining adhered to said fabric substrate so that said printed image is transferred thereto.