Sublimation Information
What is Sublimation Printing?
Sublimation printing is a method of transferring high-quality, full-colour designs onto specially coated materials, most commonly polyester fabrics. Using heat and pressure, sublimation turns solid dye into a gas without passing through a liquid stage, allowing it to bond directly with the fibres. The result? Vibrant, durable designs that won’t peel, crack, or fade easily.
Benefits of Sublimation
- Long-Lasting Colours: The ink becomes part of the fabric, so prints are resistant to fading and cracking.
- Full-Colour Designs: Perfect for detailed images, gradients, and photographic prints.
- Soft Feel: Since the ink is embedded in the fabric, there’s no added texture or heaviness.
- Versatility on Products: Great for apparel, mugs, phone cases, and other polyester-coated items.
Important Considerations
- Material Matters: Sublimation works best on polyester or polyester-coated surfaces. Natural fabrics like cotton will not hold the design properly.
- White or Light Colours Recommended: The process doesn’t work well on dark fabrics. Sublimation ink is transparent, so designs may not appear correctly on dark backgrounds.
- Not Ideal for Small Runs on Dark Fabrics: For smaller orders or darker items, consider alternative printing methods such as screen printing or vinyl.
Perfect For:
- Custom sportswear and team jerseys
- Personalised gifts and promotional items
- Full-colour graphic t-shirts and accessories
Care Instructions for Sublimated Items
- Machine wash cold, inside out.
- Avoid bleach and fabric softeners.
- Tumble dry on low or air dry.
- Do not iron directly on the printed design.
