Yes, you can iron onto polyester, especially with modern fabric blends.
Understanding Polyester and Heat
Historically, ironing polyester was often risky. In the past, polyester had a bad reputation for melting when excessive heat was applied. However, this issue was more prevalent several decades ago. Modern polyester fabrics have evolved significantly. Today, the material blends are much different, making them more resilient to heat.
Ironing Modern Polyester
Due to these advancements, polyester is much safer to use around heat compared to older versions of the material. This improved heat resistance means that ironing is now a viable option for working with polyester fabric.
The increased safety around heat also makes modern polyester an excellent base for embellishments. As the reference notes, its ability to withstand heat makes it a great material to embellish with custom patches, which are frequently applied using an iron.
While modern polyester is more heat-tolerant, it's always advisable to test on a small, inconspicuous area first and follow any specific care instructions for the fabric or the item you are ironing onto it. Using a lower heat setting and a pressing cloth can also add an extra layer of safety.