Dye sublimation printing is a digital printing technology used to create high-quality custom printed clothes. This process involves transferring custom designed images onto garments, usually using specialized inks and a heat press. It’s become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to its ease of use, high-quality prints, and durable results.
The process begins with creating a custom image or design, which is then printed onto a transfer paper. This paper has a special coating that allows the inks to bind to its surface, allowing for transfer to other materials such as fabrics. Once the design has been printed, the transfer paper is then placed on top of the fabric and is subjected to heat and pressure. This causes the inks to sublimate - or vaporize - and be transferred to the fabric, bonding into its fibres.
When compared to other printing methods, dye sublimation printing offers a range of benefits. It’s ideal for producing high-quality prints with vibrant colours and crisp details - making it perfect for logos and detailed artwork. The images printed this way are also extremely durable, with no risk of fading or cracking over time. The inks penetrate cloth fibres rather than sitting on top, greatly increasing their lifespan.