What is Sublimation Printing

Sublimation printing is exactly what you need. This printing technology transforms your design into a vivid and durable print by embedding it directly into the material.

Sublimation printing isn’t just for textiles; it’s also suitable for metals, ceramics, and other materials that can withstand high temperatures. In this article, we’ll explore the basics of sublimation printing, how it works, its advantages and disadvantages, and the best products for sublimation printing.

Let us help you fully understand the magic of sublimation printing.

What is sublimation printing

Sublimation printing is a digital technique that involves printing ink onto special transfer paper, then using pressure and heat to vaporize the ink and transfer the color from the paper to the product material.

This method blends the ink into the material rather than onto the surface, resulting in a long-lasting, vibrant effect.

It works well on polyester, polymer-coated items, or anything made of 100% polyester. This technique is widely used on apparel products, especially T-shirts, hats, and canvas shoes, and is known for its resistance 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 by combining colors, patterns, and graphics.

2. A sublimation printer prints the digital design onto specialized sublimation transfer paper using dye-sublimation ink.

3. Place the printed transfer paper on the product you want to print on, such as a T-shirt, mouse pad, or ceramic item.

4. Align the design on the product, and use a heat press to apply heat and pressure.

5. The gaseous sublimation ink penetrates the material, not just the surface, creating a permanent, vibrant print.

6. Once the material has cooled, remove the transfer paper to reveal a vibrant, durable print that resists fading and washing.

Pros and Cons of Sublimation Printing

Pros

Vivid colors

Sublimation produces bright, vibrant colors due to the high temperatures used, making it ideal for detailed designs and photographs.

Durability

The ink penetrates the material, so sublimation prints will not peel, crack, or fade, maintaining high durability over time.

Fast turnaround time

Sublimation designs are processed using a printer, reducing the steps required compared to screen printing. The design can be quickly printed and applied to the product.

Multiple applications

Sublimation printing can be used to create designs for a variety of products, including clothing, mugs, canvas shoes, and ceramic pendants.

No Feel on Fabric

Due to the ink becomes part of the fabric, it doesn’t create a heavy or stiff texture, giving the product a natural feel. Sublimation-printed products do not form the plastic-like film produced by DTF printing.

Cons

Material limitations

Sublimation dyes are limited to light-colored polyester fabrics, and the polyester fiber content in the fabric will affect the print’s durability. Sublimation dyes are not suitable for dark or natural materials.

Requires a light background

Sublimation works best on white or light-colored surfaces. Since the dye is translucent, the color of the substrate will affect the final appearance. On dark or colored surfaces, the color will not appear vibrant or accurate.

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, ” 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

Now you have much more knowledge about sublimation printing. By understanding its process and applications, you can use this technology to expand your creative possibilities and meet the growing demand for personalized, high-quality items.

You can also use JetPrint to process your sublimation products. All you need to do is upload your design to our mockup generator.

Whether you’re a business owner new to the on-demand printing industry or an individual who loves personalized products, you can use JetPrint as your supplier.