How to Print Nature Photography on Fabric at Home

Ofra Morashty
Jun 12
2 min read

a printer — How to Print Nature Photography on Fabric at Home

Printing your own nature photography onto fabric is a wonderful way to create personalized art, gifts, or home décor. Whether you want to make custom wall hangings, tote bags, pillows, or even clothing accents, this DIY project lets you blend creativity with your passion for the outdoors — all from the comfort of home.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you print your nature photos onto fabric successfully.

What You’ll Need

• Your nature photograph (edited and ready to print)

• Inkjet printer (not laser)

• High-resolution fabric sheets or freezer paper + cotton fabric

• Iron

• Scissors

• Computer with image editing software (optional)

• Ruler or cutting mat (optional)

Step 1: Choose the Right Fabric

Use 100% cotton or cotton-linen blend for best results. The fabric should be tightly woven and light-colored (white or cream) to make the image pop. You can either:

• Buy pre-treated inkjet fabric sheets (found online or in craft stores), or

• Make your own printable fabric by ironing cotton onto freezer paper to create a firm surface that can go through your printer.

Tip: Pre-treated fabric holds ink better and results in more vivid, washable prints.

Step 2: Prepare Your Photo

Open your nature photo in editing software (like Photoshop, Canva, or even Preview on a Mac). Resize the image to fit your fabric sheet (usually 8.5 x 11 inches). Adjust the brightness, contrast, and saturation to bring out details like flower petals, feathers, or landscape textures.

Optional: Add text or borders if you're making labels or wall art.

Step 3: Print Your Image

• Insert the fabric sheet into your inkjet printer with the fabric side facing the correct direction.

• Use high-quality photo print settings in your printer dialog.

• Make sure the printer tray is clean and feeds the fabric sheet evenly.

Let the printed fabric dry completely (at least 30 minutes) before handling it.

Step 4: Set the Ink (Optional but Recommended)

To make the print last longer, heat-set the ink by placing a pressing cloth over the image and ironing it (no steam) for 1-2 minutes. This step helps prevent fading.