What is Sublimation?

Sublimation is a very unique process used to digitally decorate hundreds of different items.  It allows you to transfer full color digital images in a short amount of time while giving you superior quality.  Here are the basic questions we hear.

What does sublimation mean?

Sublimation literally means the process of changing physical states from solid to a gas while bypassing the liquid phase. A good real world example is when you see steam ice coming off a block of dry ice.  In sublimation printing, the inks are formulated to vaporize when certain temperatures are applied.  This quick release of the inks is what allows you to transfer such fine detail and brilliant color. 

How does sublimation work in the printing process?

Sublimation inks are designed to work with certain Epson and Ricoh printers.  You will load these inks your printers and print out the mirror image on to a piece of sublimation transfer paper.  Sublimation paper is just a coated stock of paper that does not allow the ink to penetrate the page so you get a better release of the inks.  Once you have your printed sublimation transfer, you will put it face down on the item you are decorating.  You will use a heat press to apply even heat and pressure.  At 400 degrees the inks will vaporize and dye into your items.  Depending the item you are decorating, the ink will need to dwell for various times.  When finished, allow the item to cool and it is ready to go.  There is no special drying or coating that needs to be applied after the inks are transferred.  The process is very quick and easy!

I have a different brand printer...do I have to use an Epson or a Ricoh?

YES!  Most printers use heat technologies to apply ink on to a page.  Since we are working with heat activated inks, it is essential to use a cold technology to print inks.  Both Epson and Ricoh inkjet printers utilize a cold method for printing. 

Can I buy any Epson or Ricoh printer for sublimation?

No, only certain models are supported so it is important to check which model printers are the most current before making your purchase. (Browse compatible printers)

What items can I decorate using sublimation?

They are literally hundreds of different items you can decorate.  One of the main applications is to decorate 100% polyester fabric (not blends...100% polyester).  You can also decorate hundreds of polymer coated substrates.  The items can include mugs, tiles, plaques, coasters, interior signage, etc.  Unisub makes an entire catalog full of sublimation blanks.  The majority of photo gifts you see offered in the market place are made with sublimation.  It is also great for putting full color logos and messaging on various promotional products.   

Can I decorate any mug or tile?

No, you must use items that have a polymer coating that can accept the sublimation inks.  If you go to Lowes or Home Depot and try to sublimate a regular tile, you will be disappointed with the results. 

Can I use an iron or do I have to buy a heat press?

You have to use a decent quality heat press.  An iron can’t reach 400 degrees and it won’t be able to provide even and heavy pressure.  A good heat press for sublimation is the George Knight DK20S. It is a heavy duty heat press for a reasonable price that has the ability to press thicker blanks if you ever want to get into decorating plaques.  Be aware the cheap heat presses from abroad don’t provide even, accurate heat and most usually fall apart in the first year of use.  The best advice we can give you is...if you spend the right money on a high quality heat press the first time, it’s the only heat press you’ll ever buy! 

I’ve heard bad things about sublimation bulk ink systems clogging and then costing hundreds of dollars to fix...is buying a bulk ink system a bad idea?

The truth of the matter is there have been a fair amount of quality issues associated with sublimation bulk ink systems over the years.  However the majority of problems arise from the wrong type of customers purchasing them.  Bulk ink systems are designed for individuals who are going to be printing with them at least every day.  If you buy a bulk ink system and let it sit for weeks without use, we can guaranty that you will have technical issues.  Read more about it at which ink delivery system is best for me.   

Will sublimation fade in the wash?

No, sublimation on 100% polyester is permanent and will not fade.  You can wash a shirt made with sublimation 50 times and it will still have great color.  Sublimation also will not fade on hard polymer coated substrates.  You can put mugs decorated with sublimation in the dishwasher without fear.  The only thing that will make sublimation fade is direct sunlight over extended periods of time. That is why we only recommend interior signage and tiles murals for indoor usage.  There are some coatings you can apply to sublimation items after they are decorated to extend their UV life, however nothing will make it last forever.   

Are there any limitations to sublimation printing?

There are three limitations to consider:

1. Sublimation can not decorate black or dark 100% polyester fabric.  There is no white sublimation ink so it will no show up on dark fabrics.  Whatever you are transferring has to be darker than the polyester fabric for it to be visible. 

2. Sublimation does not work on 100% cotton or 50/50’s.  You can try it for yourself...the results are not good and wash worse.  You must use 100% polyester apparel.  Don’t worry...polyester has changed over the years.  There are polyester garments out there that feel just like cotton and breathe very well.  Vapor Apparel makes a full line of sublimation ready clothing. 

3. You can only decorate items with a bright white polymer coating.  If you try to use sublimation on different plastics and other random items, it will not transfer and you will have a mess in the heat press! Make sure you are using blanks that have a polymer coating that will accept sublimation inks. 

 

What is sublimation?

Your everything sublimation resource!