Sublimation printing uses heat and pressure to transfer dye directly into a material which creates vibrant, long-lasting designs. Unlike printing methods like DTG, DTF, and screen printing that apply ink on top of a surface, sublimation printing turns ink into a gas that bonds with polyester fibers or specially coated hard surfaces. Since the ink bonds with the materials, the design won’t crack, peel, or fade over time.

What is the process involved in sublimation printing?

In sublimation printing, you must first print a design onto a special transfer paper with sublimation inks. Afterward, you have to place the printed paper with your design onto the swag item or product and use a heat press. The heat and pressure then transform the inks into gas, allowing the material to absorb them. And there you’ll have it! A permanent print that will last the test of wash and wear.

This printing technique commonly uses swag items like apparel, accessories, mugs, and even home decor due to their sublimation absorption capacity. Sublimation ink blends with these items’ materials rather than simply sitting on top, thus producing smooth prints with no texture. Do note, however, that light-colored fabrics with high polyester content work best with sublimation printing, as the technique doesn’t adhere well to cotton or dark materials.