Beginner's Directory

What is Sublimation Printing and How Does it Work?

What is Sublimation Printing and How Does it Work?

This is a highly popular option for printing images of various complexity on custom wear. In this article, we will cover the basics of this method. Keep reading to find out why it's a fantastic opportunity for businesses.

What is the definition of sublimation printing?

This approach makes it possible to create vivid images on different surfaces. Do you know exactly how it works? Let’s break it down.

First, the procedure starts by  placing a digital image onto specialized paper using specific inks. Afterward, this paper is placed on the necessary staff where it goes through the heating and pressing process. At this stage, the ink sublimates, bonds permanently with the material.
It’s also important to consider the science behind it. In scientific terms, this process can be described as follows: the ink first starts in a solid state. Then it directly changes to a gaseous state, solidifying on the staff to create a permanent bond. These conditions allow for optimal contact between the paper and staff, so the results you obtain are excellent image quality and durability.

What Materials Work Best for Sublimation Printing?

It's important to choose the right material because sublimation printing heavily depends on the surface. It is highly effective on polyester fabrics and blends, as well as certain materials like ceramics and synthetic fabrics that can be coated to be receptive to coloring by this method.

Important to know! It does not work with cotton, wool, silk, or linen. This is primarily due to the lack of a polymer-rich covering and the specific requirements of the process.

Pro Tips:

When deciding on materials, we at Subliminator recommend following these tips:

  1. Choose materials with 70% or more polyester content for the best results.
  2. Opt for materials with smooth surfaces for optimal color reproduction. Dark or textured surfaces, as a rule, affect the final image quality.

Sublimation vs. Other Printing Methods: A Detailed Comparison

We've already answered the question “How does sublimation printing work?”, so let's now take a look at how it contrasts to other techniques.

A comparison table that outlines the differences between different printing methods

As you can see, sublimation is the most flexible and affordable technique to print unique items which are environmentally friendly in addition to other features.

Advantages and Disadvantages

When seeking quality prints, it's essential to thoroughly learn the pros and cons of your chosen method to achieve the best results possible. Below is a brief overview to define sublimation printing features.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Sublimation method

Examples of Sublimation Printing Applications

As you can see, sublimation printing offers a range of options. Let's consider some examples:

  • Custom sportswear, uniforms, t-shirts, leggings, and activewear – Ideal for personalizing high-performance apparel.
  • Hoodies, sweatshirts, jackets, and vests – Perfect for creating custom outerwear.
  • Swimwear and loungewear – Excellent for vibrant, custom designs on comfortable clothing.
  • Jerseys, shorts, and performance gear – Designed for athletes and active lifestyles, combining function with style.

So, How to Get Started?

Finally, how to do sublimation printing? This way offers incredible opportunities, but getting started can feel overwhelming – especially if you’re juggling other aspects of your business. The good news? You don’t have to do it all by yourself.

Instead of investing in costly equipment and spending hours mastering the process, why not partner with a company that specializes in on-demand printing for businesses? At Subliminator, we make it easy for you to bring your ideas to life without the hassle.

Simply share your design ideas with us, and we’ll handle the rest – from selecting the best materials to ensuring a flawless print every time. While we take care of your custom apparel and branded merchandise, you can focus on what you do best – running your business and delighting your customers.

Let Subliminator be your trusted partner in creating bright, long-lasting items that elevate your brand.

Ready to get started? Create an account today and watch your products come to life with stunning prints that your customers will love.

The Subliminator Team
The Subliminator Team

A dedicated group of creators, innovators, and customer success specialists, passionate about empowering businesses with top-quality print-on-demand solutions.

Close icon
Cookie Preferences

Gradeo uses cookies and similar technologies to access and use your data for the purposes listed below. Please provide your consent for cookie usage on this website. Enable one or more of the cookie types listed below, and then save your preferences.

Strictly Necessary Cookies
Always Active
These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off in our systems. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you, which amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences or filling in forms. You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the site may not then work.
Marketing Cookies
These cookies may be set through our site by our advertising partners. Those companies may use them to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant adverts on other sites. They do not store personal information directly but are based on uniquely identifying your browser and internet device. If you do not allow these cookies, you will experience less targeted advertising.
Performance Cookies
These cookies allow us to count visits and traffic sources to measure and improve our site's performance. They help us to know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site. All information these cookies collect is aggregated and, therefore, anonymous. If you do not allow these cookies, we will not know when you have visited our site and will not be able to monitor its performance.
Analytics Cookies
These cookies enable the website to provide enhanced functionality and personalization. They may be set by us or by third party providers whose services we have added to our pages. If you do not allow these cookies, some or all of these services may not function properly.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.