Sublimation transfer
Also known as: Dye-sub transfer, Sublistatic transfer
Indirect sublimation print: the motif is pre-printed on transfer paper and gasified into polyester fabric with heat.
Description
With sublimation transfer, a digitally printed motif is first printed on special sublimation transfer paper. In a heat press at 190-220 °C for 15-45 seconds, the dye is sublimated directly from paper into the polyester fibres (solid-to-gas transition) without passing through the liquid phase.
The process is ideal for full-coverage photo motifs on white or light polyester, sports jerseys and promotional items and delivers extremely durable, soft, hand-neutral prints that do not build up or crack. It does not work on cotton — a polyester share of at least 60 % is required, otherwise colour depth suffers.
- Works only on polyester or polymer-coated blanks
- Very durable, hand-neutral, no cracking
- Ideal for sublimation jerseys, flags, promotional goods
- Colour fidelity depends on substrate whiteness
Properties
| Process | Indirect sublimation via transfer paper |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 190-220 °C, 15-45 s |
| Substrate | Polyester (>= 60 %) or polymer coated |
| Application | Sports shirts, jerseys, flags, promotional items |
Sources & references
1- Wikipedia: Dye-sublimation printing Wikipedia — Freie Enzyklopädie https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dye-sublimation_printing
