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What is Sublimation Printing?

Sublimation printing is a branding method that creates bright, long-lasting designs by permanently bonding ink to the materials. The difference is that ink does not sit on top of items (which makes them scratch off easily). Instead sublimation melts the ink into the material, making the design part of it. This means the print won’t fade, crack, or peel over time. Because it creates smooth, long-lasting prints, sublimation is often used for custom clothing, mugs and promotional items.

How Sublimation Printing is Applied

Sublimation printing relies on heat, pressure, and special sublimation ink to create a permanent bond between the design and the product. Our process involves:

1. Printing the Design on Transfer Paper: The artwork is first digitally printed using sublimation ink onto special transfer paper. Since sublimation uses CMYK printing, it allows for photographic-quality images with sharp details and smooth gradients.
2. Heat & Pressure Activation: The printed transfer paper is placed on the product’s polyester fabric or coated surface. Using a heat press (typically 180-200°C), the heat and pressure convert the ink into a gas, allowing it to bond at a molecular level with the material.
3. Ink Infusion & Permanent Bonding: As the ink penetrates the fibres or coating, it becomes part of the product. This process eliminates any raised texture, ensuring a smooth and durable finish.
4. Cooling & Setting: The ink is fully bonded with the material after your chosen product cools. This creates a print that is resistant to fading.

Advantages 

Sublimation printing is a brilliant branding method due to its durability and ability to produce vivid, detailed designs. Clients love this technique because:

• Long-Lasting & Fade-Resistant: Because the ink becomes part of the material, sublimation prints won’t peel, crack, or fade, even after multiple washes or heavy use.
• Photographic-Quality Printing: Sublimation allows for full-colour, high-resolution images, gradients, and complex details, unlike screen printing or embroidery.
• Smooth Finish: Since the ink is infused into the fabric or coating, there’s no texture. Run your hand over it and you will feel no bumbs.
• Eco-Friendly & Water-Based Ink: Sublimation uses non-toxic, water-based inks, making it a more environmentally friendly printing option than traditional solvent-based methods.
• Great for Short & Large Runs: Sublimation can be used for small custom jobs and large production runs.

Disadvantages 

While sublimation offers incredible colour vibrancy and durability, it does have limitations. This includes:

• Requires Polyester or Special Coatings: Sublimation does not work on cotton (although our team is working on this), untreated wood, or regular ceramics. The material must be polyester-based or have a polymer coating.
• Limited to White or Light-Coloured Surfaces: Since sublimation dyes the material rather than adding a separate layer of ink, it does not work well on dark fabrics or backgrounds.
• Higher Cost for Individual Items: Sublimation is cost-effective for small runs, but screen printing is cheaper for huge orders.

Best Suitable Surfaces

Sublimation works only on specific materials that can absorb dye at a molecular level. Some of these surfaces include:

• Polyester & Polyester Blends (Fabric): Sportswear, activewear, jerseys, and promotional apparel. Modern performance fabrics work best.
• Sublimation-Coated Drinkware: Works on ceramic mugs, stainless steel bottles, and tumblers with a special sublimation-friendly coating.
• Metal Plates & Aluminum Panels: Perfect for custom signage, nameplates, and high-end promotional gifts.
• Plastic & Acrylic Products: Includes branded keychains, phone cases, and ID badges.
• Hardwood & MDF Products with Sublimation Coating: Used for photo plaques, awards, and decorative branding.

Examples of Promotional Items Using Sublimation Printing

Popular applications of sublimation printing on promo merch includes:

• Custom Sports Jerseys & Custom Branded Activewear
• Promotional Tee Shirts
• Custom Printed Umbrellas
• Branded Phone Cases
• Custom Mouse Pads
• Sublimated Tote Bags
• Promotional Microfibre Cleaning Cloths
• Coasters
• Keychains
• many more!