What is Sublimation Printing?
Dec 13, 2021
Sublimation definition: when a solid material turns into a gas without going through a liquid stage.
This means that the artwork is transferred to an object in a gas state by using a high temperature heat press during the dye sublimation printing process. It differs from traditional printing methods because it bypasses the liquid step. There are no inks drying to the printed object.
How It Works
The image is first infused onto the source printing paper, leaving little mess and making the whole process quick and easy for dye sublimation printing. Heat is then utilized to transfer the image from the sublimation paper to an object.
Businesses and home designers use this style of printing when creating graphics on clothing, as well as signage, home decorations, company exhibits, and personal items such as coasters, coffee mugs, and keyrings.
Below is a list of profitable items that businesses dye sublimate:
Rigid Substrates – Polymer treated objects that include non-fabric items like glass, plastic, fiberglass, and aluminum. These are products that aren’t bendable like fabrics.
Blank Rigid Products – Many of these materials are available to buy in bulk at wholesale prices, like custom mouse pads, cell phone cases, and drinkware. They are sometimes referred to as “blanks”, which are products without any designs or printing included so that personalization can be added.
Signage – Perfect for “click to print” e-commerce businesses. Easily print on vinyl to create retractable banners and other trade show displays. When seeing signs hanging in front of shops or buildings, there’s a good chance that sublimation was used.
Polyester Fabrics – One of the most popular items to dye sublimate. They are divided into two types:
Knit: Polyester products that hang & flow in their natural environment, like apparel, flags, banners, and custom printed table covers.
Woven: More durable products such as custom tote bags, fabric backdrops, and custom tents.
Home Decor – The dye-sub process is often used by businesses that sell to interior designers. Decor items like ceramic floor tiles are a popular choice for bathrooms, kitchens, restaurants, & more.
Photograph Printing – Arguably the best way to produce the highest-quality photographic images on canvas, magnets, and apparel.
