Sublimation printing is a sophisticated indirect digital printing technique that allows transferring full-color images onto white surfaces. This process begins with printing an image or a logo onto sublimation paper using specific color inks. The printed paper sheets are then cut to fit the shape of the image. They are subsequently placed on the product and printed using pressure and heat with a heat press. During this phase, the sublimation inks undergo a transformation from solid to gas, allowing them to penetrate deeply into the surface of the article. The inks transition from a solid to a gaseous state and back to a solid state. Once the sublimation process is complete, the gadget is cooled.
This printing process ensures incredible photographic quality of the images. Logos printed using sublimation stand out for their exceptional definition, presenting vivid colors. Additionally, it offers the possibility to cover a wide printing area, ensuring durable and robust customization against extreme weather conditions. It is crucial that the object is completely white, as the inks blend with the original color of the product. If not, the printing result may vary from the initial draft. Moreover, this printing method is fast, minimizing production times.
Colors can be reproduced with total graphic fidelity because it is a digital print, so there are no limitations. Sublimation is bound by the fact that printable materials must have a white base. Without this base, the inks used would blend with the material's gradation, compromising the final result. This technique offers the significant advantage because it can be applied to flat and concave surfaces. In any case, it guarantees extremely detailed and sharp images. However, it should be noted that some variables can affect the final result and limit the usage options on products. Not all materials are suitable for sublimation printing. It finds its main use on materials capable of withstanding high temperatures such as ceramics, plastics, fabrics, metals, and glass.
The number of colors applicable to sublimation printing is practically unlimited since it is a digital print. Sublimation thus allows faithful photographic reproduction for all images and logos to be reproduced.
Within the sublimation printing technique, it is essential to consider the presence of initial costs for the installation of equipment. These additional costs include prices for the setup. Sublimation paper is a particular type of material. Moreover, sublimation inks are not normal colors but specific ones.
Sublimation printing is a technique whose costs remain quite average. There are classic prints that cost less, but others more elaborate that can be more expensive. The use of special inks and sublimation paper further contributes to price increases. Naturally, the total cost depends on various factors including the type of design used and the size of customization. It remains one of the techniques that offer higher quality and definition to the image.
Sublimation finds use only on materials with white bases, as otherwise, the inks would mix with the material's color gradation. Therefore, it is a technique mainly used for: t-shirts, mugs, shopping bags, caps, water bottles, lanyards, towels, and mouse pads.
Sublimation printing can only be applied to products that have a white base. It is necessary to select materials capable of withstanding the high temperatures required by the printing process. Sublimation remains one of the most selected prints because it has an affordable price and can obtain a full-color print extremely resistant over time.
