What is sublimation printing
Sublimation printing is a digital printing technology that involves printing ink onto special transfer paper and then vaporizing the ink through heating. This process moves the ink color from the transfer paper into the product material.
This printing technique incorporates ink into the interior of the material rather than on the surface, and it is sometimes referred to as all-over-print.
It is effective on polyester, polymer-coated items, or anything containing 100% polyester. Widely used in clothing products, especially all-over print (AOP) clothing like T-shirts and shoes, this printing technology is known for its features that make it resistant to fading and cracking.
Why is it called sublimation printing
Sublimation is a chemical term that originally referred to the process of a substance directly transforming from a solid to a gaseous state without passing through a liquid state. It is a state change that occurs when a substance’s temperature and pressure are lower than the triple point. This principle is also used in sublimation printing to allow the dye to transition from a solid to a gaseous state without passing through a liquid state.The term “sublimation” was coined because it was thought that the dye would transition between solid and gaseous states without passing through a liquid phase. Because the dye would liquefy, this understanding of the process was later proven to be incorrect.The proper name for this process has since been dye diffusion, though this technically correct term has not replaced the original name.
How does sublimation printing work
1. Create a digital design on your computer, incorporating colors, patterns, and graphics.
2. Use a sublimation printer to print the digital design onto specialized sublimation transfer paper.
3. Place the printed transfer paper onto the product you wish to print on, such as a T-shirt, mouse pad, or ceramic.
4. Align the pattern onto the product requiring the design, and then use a heat press to apply heat.
5. Sublimation ink, in its gaseous form, permeates the pores of the material, resulting in a permanent, full-color print embedded in the material rather than on its surface.6. Once the material has cooled, remove the transfer paper, revealing a vibrant and durable print that is resistant to fading and washing.
Pros and Cons of Sublimation Printing
Pros
- As no ink or paint comes into contact with the fabric at any point during the process, it helps to reduce waste by using less ink during production and less water for cleanup.
- Sublimation printed designs will not peel, crack, or fade because they have a high durability rating and typically do not fade or crack over time.
- Sublimation printing is also fast and cost-effective.
Cons
- Due to the process requires specific types of inks, it can be difficult to find a supplier who can provide the correct type and color you require, especially if you are working with large orders or unusual designs.
- Sublimation design can also take longer because there is no fixed matrix like screen printing. Before production can begin, each transfer requires its own setup.
- It must be printed on paper, which wastes resources, so recycled paper, such as paper made from corn stalks, is recommended.
- As it sublimates, ink pollutes the atmosphere.
- Material must be at least 80% polyester or polyester coated, cotton is not acceptable.
What sublimation products sell best?
For your convenience, I’ve compiled a list of the top 5 selling sublimation products.
T-Shirts
T-shirts, especially in white and black, are timeless. This is a constant in all clothing stores. T-shirts are available for purchase in any clothing store. Sublimation printing adds color to the short sleeves in cartoon, anime, and graffiti styles. If you want to make a gift for your best friend, I recommend using his or her favorite item (such as Iron Man) or a picture of the two of you. With sublimation printing, this couldn’t be simpler.
Mugs
Coffee in the morning? Mugs can be found anywhere, whether at home or at work. You can expand your business by selling sublimation printed mugs; simply improve your mugs and increase buyer interest. A hot cup of coffee in a nice mug. If you consider these two points, you will not be concerned about the lack of cup sales.
Mouse pads
Computers have become standard equipment for modern people, and almost everyone owns one. As a result, mouse pads have become a necessity for computer users. Sublimation printing your favorite cartoon characters or brand logos on a mouse pad will make people inadvertently think, “So I bought a mouse pad in a certain brand store.” This will almost certainly lead to the buyer recommending you to his family and friends, which is fantastic news for you.
Bags
Bags are more commonly seen in the hands of women, and women are the group with the most purchasing power. They frequently go out with bags of various styles, and different bags elicit different emotions in them. Nobody wants to carry an ugly bag, but everyone appreciates a bag that they designed. If you own a bag shop, JetPrint can provide you with a variety of bag styles as well as personalized customization.
Shower curtain
A nice-looking shower curtain appears to increase your enjoyment of lying in the bathtub. When you create a beautiful shower curtain, you can’t help but admire your work and forget that your shower is taking longer than the previous 30 minutes. Making a Christmas shower curtain for Christmas will remind your child that Santa Claus has arrived with a valuable gift.
Conclusion
The sublimation printing process is widely used for long-lasting, high-quality prints. The sublimation process begins with the design program’s creations, which are then transferred to the item using the heat and pressure of a heat press. While there are numerous factors to consider when designing for sublimation printing, the durability of these materials makes them an excellent choice for polyester or polymer coated items such as t-shirts or mugs.
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