Short answer: sublimation printing uses heat and pressure to turn special dye into a gas that bonds inside polyester fibres. The print becomes part of the fabric, so it does not crack, peel or wash out.
The process
- The design is printed in mirror image onto transfer paper using sublimation inks.
- The paper is placed on the polyester fabric.
- A heated calender or press applies high heat and pressure for a short time.
- The ink turns to gas, enters the polyester fibres and sets as the fabric cools.
Advantages
- Unlimited colours and photographic detail
- Soft hand feel, because there is no ink layer on top
- Excellent wash and light fastness on polyester
- No screens, so short runs and frequent design changes are practical
Limits
- Works properly only on polyester or high-polyester blends; cotton does not hold sublimation dye
- Best on white or light base fabrics, since the dye is translucent
Best uses
Sportswear, team jerseys, activewear, printed dresses and tops in polyester satin, chiffon, georgette and crepe, scarves and uniforms.
FAQ
Will sublimation prints fade?
On polyester, good sublimation is highly colourfast through normal washing.
Can you sublimate cotton?
Not effectively. Use digital or rotary printing for cotton.
Dynamic Knitfabs runs an in-house sublimation printing unit. See sublimation printed fabrics.