Sublimation Printing is the process of transferring photographs and full colour graphics onto items.  These can include anything from metal, glass, ceramics and unisub products. These types of products are pre-coated and therefore sublimation receptive. Other products that can be used for sublimation printing include certain synthetic fabrics, such as T-shirts, jigsaws puzzles and mouse mats and more.

The process of Dye Sublimation Printing from Nova Chrome starts with designing your own artwork on your PC. This can be using any kind of graphics software such as Photoshop. The printer is then loaded with sublimation ink, which is then printed onto Epson photo quality 720 dpi paper.  A heat press is then used to transfer the image onto the end product.

Using head and pressure the inks are then converted from solid to a gas and then penetrated into the surface of the item. Sublimation Printing gives a more durable finish compared to other transfer methods, where the image is only applied to the surface.

The process of this style of printing is quick and easy. The equipment used is very compact and requires minimal working space. You can print as few prints as you like. There is also room to print ‘one offs’, short runs or multiple to suit your individual requirements.

The end result of this type of printing is vibrant, realistic and durable.

Sublimation Blanks

The term sublimation refers to the process of switching from a solid to a gas without the need of passing through a transitional liquid phase. Sublimation Blanks are materials that work with a process called sublimation. A chemical reaction occurs between the ink and polyester surface to be infused onto the surface of products. Typically, these are great for T-shirts, mugs, bags and even clothing. The polyester coating allows for the sublimation process to transfer when in contact with heat. For this to work, a sublimation blank with poly-coating is required. 

Once the design has been chosen, specially designed inks are used through a sublimation printer onto sublimation paper. These inks aren’t your regular printer ink used at home. This ink is then dried and is ready to be transferred. Temperatures reaching up to 400 degrees are then compressed onto the product and permanently printed. 

Sublimation is known to last a long time, is scratch resistant and can even hold up well after washing. When you sublimate a product, it becomes one and so it is difficult to scratch or peel off. Sublimation is a great way of customising products and especially personalised gifts.

Sublimation Metal

Sublimating onto metal offers sharp, vibrant prints, ideal for items like plaques, signs, or decorative panels. Specially coated metal sheets are used, allowing the design to be transferred with a heat press. The heat converts the ink to gas, which embeds into the metal surface, creating high-definition prints with exceptional colour quality. Sublimation metal products are resistant to scratches, UV damage, and fading, making them perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.

Heat Presses

A heat press is essential in the sublimation process. It applies heat and pressure to ensure the ink transfers evenly and bonds to the surface of the product. Heat presses come in different sizes, depending on the item being sublimated, from small presses for T-shirts and mugs to larger presses for items like fabric or signage. Consistent temperature and pressure ensure that the image is transferred evenly and that the print lasts long.

Sublimation Printers

Sublimation printers are designed specifically for use with sublimation ink. Unlike regular inkjet printers, they heat the ink to convert it into gas, allowing it to bond with polyester-coated surfaces. These printers deliver high-resolution, detailed prints that are perfect for complex designs. Available in different sizes, from compact models for small businesses to industrial versions for large-scale operations, a good sublimation printer paired with quality ink and paper is key to professional results.

Sublimation Mugs

Sublimation mugs are highly popular for customisation and gifts. The mugs have a polyester coating that allows sublimation ink to bond with them during the heat transfer process. A mug press or heat press is used to apply the design, and heat is used to fuse the image into the mug’s surface. The result is a vibrant, durable image that won’t peel or fade, even after washing. Sublimation mugs are perfect for personal gifts, promotional items, or business merchandise.

Direct to Film (DTF)

Direct to Film (DTF) printing is a relatively new technique that allows designs to be printed onto specialised film, which is then transferred onto fabrics or other surfaces. Unlike sublimation, DTF can be used on both synthetic and natural fabrics. The design is printed, covered in adhesive powder, and cured before being transferred using a heat press. This process is great for creating detailed, vibrant custom prints on various fabrics, offering an alternative to traditional sublimation techniques.