What is Sublimation Printing?
Sublimation printing is an advanced technique that transfers ink onto a material using high temperature. In this process, the ink transitions directly from a solid state to a gas, allowing it to permeate the structure of the material. This results in prints that are exceptionally durable, abrasion-resistant, and of high quality.
Advantages of Sublimation Printing
- High quality and precision: Sublimation printing guarantees the reproduction of even the most complex details and vivid colors. The results are sharp and full of depth.
- Print durability: The ink permeates the material, ensuring that the print does not fade or wear off even after many washes or intense use. The products remain aesthetically pleasing for a long time.
- No noticeable print edges: The sublimation print is virtually unnoticeable to the touch because the ink enters the material’s structure without creating a layer on the surface.
- Vibrant color range: Sublimation printing allows for full-color, vivid, and intense shades that are difficult to achieve with other techniques. Thanks to sublimation technology, you can rely on a complete color palette (full-color).
- Eco-friendly: The sublimation process is solvent-free. As a result, compared to other printing methods, sublimation has a smaller environmental impact.
What Materials are Suitable for Sublimation Printing
Sublimation works best on materials that contain polyester or have a special polyester coating. The most commonly used materials include:
- Promotional products – mugs, cushions, bags, backpacks
- Sportswear – t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, workwear
- Textiles – bandanas, towels, flags
- Signs and advertising boards – on materials with polyester coatings
- Toys and accessories – e.g., personalized cushions or backpacks
This technique is not effective on natural materials (such as cotton) or surfaces that do not contain synthetic materials or proper coatings.
The Sublimation Process
Sublimation is a precise printing technique that offers exceptional color reproduction. Here’s how the sublimation process works:
- Project preparation: First, the graphic design is created in the appropriate software and then printed onto transfer paper using sublimation inks.
- Transferring the design to the material: The printed transfer paper is placed onto the material to be printed. The material and paper are then exposed to high temperature (around 200°C) and pressure in a transfer press.
- Sublimation: Under heat, the ink transitions from solid to gas and permeates the material, then solidifies, creating a durable print.
- Cooling: After the process is complete, the material is cooled and is ready for use.
Limitations of Sublimation Printing
While sublimation printing is an effective method, there are certain limitations to consider when planning production. The most important ones include:
- Only for light materials: Sublimation works best on light materials. On dark fabrics, the effect may be less pronounced, as the ink will not penetrate the material in the same way. It’s important to note that the final product using sublimation can be printed in dark colors, but the base material used for the print is always light-colored fabric.
- Synthetic materials: This technique is only effective on synthetic or polyester-based materials. On natural materials like cotton, the ink does not permeate the fabric, which results in the print not being durable.
- Limited surfaces: Sublimation printing is mainly intended for textile materials and some surfaces with an appropriate coating, such as mugs and cushions. It does not work well on surfaces like wood, metal, or glass, unless they are specially prepared for sublimation.
Recommended Uses for Sublimation Printing
Sublimation printing is an excellent choice for producing sportswear, promotional products, textile materials, and personalized items such as bags, mugs, or cushions. If you need a durable, high-quality print that perfectly reproduces details and colors, sublimation is the ideal solution.
