What is sublimation printing?

Sublimation printing is a method of printing, in which the design is transferred from a ‘sublimation paper’ to the chosen material using heat and pressure. Sublimation printing is effective and cost efficient, and has therefore become a popular method of printing.

It is possible to utilize the sublimation printing method at home. However, as it requires a few heavy investments – which you can read about below – this is only economical to do if you plan on selling your products.

Failing that, many companies use this technology to personalize a variety of products, from shirts to mugs and much more, so you can also simply send them a design and have it mailed to you.

How does sublimation printing work?

First, you create a design on your computer. Then, the design will be printed onto a special type of ink and a special type of paper. For this, you need a sublimation printer – a regular printer will not work. Then, the design is embedded onto the material. This process requires two elements: heat, and pressure.

The heat helps to release the dye on the design and transfer it onto the fabric. Together with the pressure, the heat causes the dye to enter the deeper layers of the cloth, which helps the color to stick and to stay vibrant for a long time. As the fabric cools, the ink will once again solidify, leaving you with a lasting design.

The heat and pressure are typically applied using a specialized heat press, although some people have found success using an oven at home.

Sublimation shirts printing

Can shirts be printed with the sublimation technique? Yes! However, not every type of fabric will work. Sublimation printing works best on synthetic fibers, which have a certain chemical structure that will respond to heat by ‘opening up’, absorbing the dye, and then sealing up again once cooled. Natural clothing made from cotton, hemp, silk and so on, does not have this property, and therefore does not suit the method.

Fabrics that will work include polyester and polycotton textiles, both of which are popular and inexpensive materials used in clothing. Sublimation printing even works on PVC, which is sometimes used to make clothing with a shiny effect, or as a vegan substitute for leather.

Non-textile options include ceramic, making this method an effective way to print mugs with personalized designs.

Can sublimation printing achieve a colorful print?

Yes. Using sublimation ink cartridges, which are specialized for use in a sublimation printer, you can print colorful designs. However, be careful: large block color prints can sometimes ‘ghost’, or look blurry and faded, if the transfer paper is not properly applied during the heating process. Colorful designs also run the risk of mismatching – they may not always look quite the same as they do on screen.

In conclusion

Sublimation printing, if done properly, is a quick, easy and inexpensive printing method. However, it is essential to take into account the learning curve that comes with learning any new skill, as well as the high initial cost of specialized equipment if you plan on doing this yourself. Whether you plan on using a service or printing at home, sublimation printing is an excellent way to personalize items or to bring to life designs you’ve created by impressing them on shirts and mugs.