What is sublimation printing?
In sublimation, a transfer paper is first printed with special sublimation inks. This transfer paper is placed directly on the polyester textile or a polyester blend of at least 70%. The textile and paper are pressed together with a heat press. The high heat (180°C) turns the ink on the transfer paper into a gas, which reacts with the textile fibres. After about 1 minute, the press is opened and the print is directly in the fabric. The print cannot be felt on the textile and has a very pleasant feel. Sublimation can also be used on sublimation mugs, mouse pads, flags, key rings and any item with a special sublimation coating. This is why sublimation is used for many promotional products – the print is very durable on all items.
What makes sublimation printing special?
- Images and text can be printed without any problem (CMYK)
- Photo files in good resolution (from 1000 px) are sufficient – they don’t need to be vector graphics
- The textile must have at least 60–70% polyester so that the ink can react with the textile under heat
- The print is directly in the fabric and can no longer be felt. Ideal for sports textiles, as the fabric stays breathable
- Small, medium and large runs can be produced
- Sublimation printing is very durable and basically cannot be removed from the textile by “normal” washing
How do I wash textiles printed with sublimation?
- Washable at 60°
- Wash inside out
- Do not tumble dry
- No delicate detergents, more info here
How should my print file be prepared?
Vector graphics (.eps, .ai, .svg, .pdf) are ideal. For sublimation, however, high-resolution photo files (.jpg, .png, .gif) are also sufficient. The print size in cm can always be adjusted. If you are not sure whether your artwork is suitable for sublimation printing, feel free to write to us at office@hollyshirt.at.
