Sublimation Printing

Sublimation printing is a kind of high-quality print of the white polyester groundwork. It is characterised by high precision and ability to print the most complex prints even the photographs. It is a process where a dye goes from solid to gaseouss state and then penetrates into the dyed polyester fabric and permanently binds with it, thus assures of high quality of print which is resistant to attrition and weather conditions.

Sublimation printing on apparel

Sublimation printing is a modern method of decorating apparel that delivers durable, saturated and highly detailed prints. Wondering what it is and how it works? The answer is simple: it is a process in which a special ink turns into a gas at high temperature, penetrates the structure of the fabric fibres and bonds with them permanently, ensuring high print quality resistant to abrasion and weather conditions. As a result the print becomes an integral part of the material rather than a layer on its surface, which makes it extremely durable. The method guarantees that the print is resistant to washing, UV radiation, abrasion and intensive use. Sublimation printing is an excellent solution not only for companies and sports teams, but also for event organisers and manufacturers of promotional apparel. The popularity of this technique at RAVEN keeps growing, so it is hardly surprising that it is often chosen by businesses and enthusiasts of personalised apparel.

Sublimation printing on fabrics

Sublimation printing on fabrics works best with polyester materials or blends with a high polyester content. It is on such substrates that the dye can penetrate deep into the fibres and therefore keep intense colours for a long time.

Sublimation printing is most often used to produce sportswear, workwear, promotional accessories, bandanas, caps and interior decoration items. Importantly, prints can be applied across whole fabric surfaces, including hard-to-reach places. This gives us complete creative freedom. In addition, the technique has no colour limitations, which makes it possible to reproduce even the most complex graphics, photographs or designs with smooth tonal transitions.

Sublimation printing on garments

Using sublimation on finished garments is an excellent way to obtain exceptionally durable and striking prints. Apparel decorated this way stays soft, light and breathable. It is worth stressing that the design does not crack, does not crumble and does not affect the elasticity of the material, which matters particularly for sportswear and workwear. Thanks to this the design stays attractive and keeps the intensity of its colours even under intensive use.

This technique allows graphics to be applied anywhere on a garment – on the sleeves, hoods and even along the seams. This makes it possible to achieve a coherent and professional visual effect that can set a brand apart from the competition.

Discover also the transfer printing technology in the RAVEN offer.

Sublimation printing on T-shirts

Sublimation printing on T-shirts is by far one of the most popular applications of this technology. It is chosen particularly readily by sports teams, companies and event organisers who want a print of photographic quality. T-shirts made of polyester or of materials with a high polyester content allow the full potential of the sublimation technique to be used. Sublimation printing on polyester guarantees the durability of the print and the retention of intense colours, even after many washes.

A sublimation print is also an excellent solution for promotional T-shirts. They then make a great form of promotion – the design can cover the entire surface of the garment, including the sleeves and back, without the limitations resulting from the size of a matrix or screens.

Sublimation printing on cotton

Although sublimation works best on polyester, sublimation printing on cotton is also possible. Using this technique on natural fabrics requires an appropriate preparation of the substrate, and the effect differs from that obtained on synthetic materials. If you are considering a print on cotton, contact us – we will advise which technique will deliver the best result for your project.