Sublimation printing has a bit higher start-up coast when compared to heat transfer vinyl, but maybe a better option based on final results. To get started with sublimation printing you will need a sublimation printer, sublimation paper, heat press machine and blank apparel where our design will be transferred.
Is sublimation more expensive than vinyl?
Since Sublimation ink transfer doesn’t work well with dark-colored fabrics, Vinyl printing methods need to be implemented. Vinyl transfer methods are considered to be a cheaper alternative to Sublimation method, mostly because it’s results aren’t as long-lasting or permanent as the latter one.
Is sublimation easier than vinyl?
HTV gives you more options when it comes to garments as it works on any color, unlike sublimation which can only be done on white or light colored fabrics. But if you are personalizing phone cases, mugs, frames, etc., sublimation is a more simplified process that gives you more options.
How long does sublimation ink last?
A printer’s sublimation inks have a shelf life. Leaving them in the printer too long will cause issues such as color shifting, head clogs and banding. Many people agree that you can print past the “use-by” date without any issues, but a good rule of thumb is to use the cartridges within six months of installing them.
Which is better sublimation or heat transfer?
If your business focuses or mainly focuses in white and light-color polyester apparel, sublimation is a great option. Your prints will have the lightest hand and great durability and washability. However, if you want to print on any color or material type, heat transfer paper will be your best bet.
What happens if you sublimate on 100 cotton?
This is why true sublimation bonding results in dye will not crack, peel or fade when laundered. In the case of products that allow cotton sublimation, the resulting image will be on the surface instead of in the surface , and may crack, peel or fade over time.
Can you do sublimation on dark shirts?
While it’s not possible to sublimate dark colors directly , with a Silhouette CAMEO, Sawgrass Sublimation Printer, and white glitter HTV you can make it work! ... The process to sublimate on dark t shirts is the same as the process to sublimate on cotton shirts that are other colors – including white.
Can a sublimation printer print on vinyl?
Sublimation is recommended for white or light-colored substrates to yield optimum results, while HTV works great on any color fabric. ... With certain vinyl like Siser Glitter, you can sublimate designs directly onto the vinyl before pressing it onto the garment.
Can sublimation be done on cotton?
sublimation prints were normally used for polyester and similar synthetics, but sublimation on cotton is possible with a special treatment before . First option is to use a special polyester surface coating on cotton.
Can I use a regular printer for sublimation?
Printers can be switched but not on an as needed basis. You must completely flush the system. Reason being the color and chemical make up of the inks are not the same. So if you use regular ink and then put in sublimation your prints will come out wrong and the ink obviously doesnt bond to the substrate... see more.
What material can I sublimate on?
What Materials Can Be Sublimation Printed? Suitable materials are man-made polymers such as Polyester and PVC . These can be ‘hard’ such as a polyester coated sheet of aluminium or ceramic tiles or ‘soft’ such as polycotton textiles.
Can you sublimate on satin robes?
Satin can be sublimated if it is 100% polyester-based . Sublimate at 390 F for 45 seconds using light to medium pressure. Avoid stamp marks or press marks on sensitive polyester fabric, such as satin, from transfer paper edge lines and bottom padding lines using the foam pad method.
Can you use an iron for sublimation?
Sublimation can not be completed using an iron due to the high risk of “ghosting” on the item, lack of pressure and varied temperature control.
How many prints do you get out of sublimation ink?
On average, 1 ml of ink will equate 1 square foot of printing with average coverage. Therefore, 9 ml cartridges (4-color) should yield 36 square feet of printing. 30 ml cartridges (4-color) should yield about 120 square feet of printing. 110 ml bulk bags (4-color) should yield about 440 square feet of printing.
Can you sublimate twice?
FAQs – Can I sublimate a mug twice? You can sublimate the mug any times you want . It won’t damage the mug, but remember that the existing image will ghost when it’s reheated.
Does sublimation ink fade?
Sublimation prints easily fade in the direct exposure of sunlight due to ultraviolet radiation . It has nothing to do with the sublimation paper and ink. The primary reason is long-term exposure to print under direct sunlight.
