SITESublimation printing is an ink transfer process that is primarily used to print on fabrics and other polyester-coated materials. This method is very popular in creating personalized products such as t-shirts, mugs, puzzles, and other promotional items. Here I explain how it works and its main features:
How does sublimation work?
Design: A digital design is created using graphic software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, CorelDRAW, etc.
Printing: The design is printed on special sublimation paper using sublimation inks. Unlike other printing, these inks turn into a gas when heated.
Transfer: The printed paper is placed on the material to be sublimated (for example, a polyester t-shirt) and fed into a heat press.
Application of heat and pressure: The heat press is closed over the material and paper. The heat and pressure cause the sublimation ink to turn into a gas and penetrate the fibers of the material.
Final Result: Once the paper is removed and allowed to cool, the design is permanently transferred to the material. The print is very durable, and will not fade or crack over time.
Advantages of sublimation:
Durability: The ink is integrated into the material, making the print very resistant to washing and wear.
Vivid Colors: Sublimation prints are usually very vibrant, as the ink penetrates the material instead of staying on the surface.
Versatility: It can be used on a variety of products, as long as they are polyester or have a polyester coating.
Fine Detail: It allows for the printing of images with very fine detail and smooth gradations.
Limitations:
Materials: It can only be used on polyester materials or polyester-coated products.
Background Color: It works best on white or light surfaces, as there is no white ink in sublimation, so it cannot be printed on dark materials without altering the colors of the design.
This method is ideal for high-quality, personalized products that require long-lasting, professionally finished prints.
