T-Shirt Printing Techniques: Dye sublimation Printing

T-Shirt Printing Techniques: Dye sublimation Printing

11th Jan 2023

If you want vivid, high-definition images that are both durable and eye-catching look no further than sublimation printing. The most common use for sublimation is in the printing of images onto fabric, such as t-shirts, but you can also print on special coated hard surfaces such as mugs, bottles, coasters and more. With its versatility, ease of use and affordability, sublimation printing is quickly becoming one of the most popular ways to express creativity. Let's have a look at what's involved:

Dye sublimation

Sublimation is a printing technique that uses heat to transfer dye onto a medium. When heated the dye turns into a gas and permeates the fabric. As the gas cools, it solidifies, creating a permanent image on the fabric.

There are several benefits to using sublimation to print images onto t-shirts. Firstly, the images are very durable and will not fade over time. Secondly, sublimation allows for full-color printing, without the need for separate screens for each color as required for screen printing. And finally, sublimation is a relatively fast printing process.

If you're interested in printing your own t-shirts at home, then sublimation is a great option. All you need is a sublimation printer, some sublimation ink, and a shirt made of a polyester blend fabric. The higher the polyester count the more vibrant the print, so try to stick with 100% polyester where possible. (If you're using a sublimation printer, you'll also need a transfer paper designed for sublimation printing.)

To print your image onto the shirt, simply follow the instructions that come with your sublimation printer.

Check out the video below to learn more about sublimation printing 


YouTube video Heat Press Nation

Once your image has been transferred to the shirt, it is permanent and will not wash out. You can now wear your custom-printed t-shirt with pride, knowing that your image will last for many years to come!