Want to create a design that is soft, durable and vivid? Dye sublimation might be the perfect fit for your next project!
What is Dye Sublimation?
Dye sublimation is a printing process that embeds a design on fabric using ink and heat. This process uses a specific kind of ink, called disperse dyes, which are embedded into fabric rather than printed on top of it.
The Process
But how does it work? First, the design is printed on transfer paper. Then, a heat press is used to turn the ink into gas. The ink, now a gas, is transferred into the fabric using heat and pressure.
When to Choose Dye Sublimation
Dye sublimation is ideal when you want a multicolor design on a light-colored, moisture wicking fabric. The embedding process helps the garment remain durable, yet soft to the touch. There is no stiff feeling and no possibility of the vinyl cracking later. Having the ink embedded into the garment also means your design will be vivid as well as breathable.
Jerseys and solar protection/cooling shirts (think long-sleeved fishing or running shirts) are prime candidates for this type of printing. First, these types of shirts are usually made with polyester or nylon-based fabrics, which are ideal materials for this type of printing. Second, these garments typically go through a lot of wear and tear during their lifetime. While other dying processes could crack or begin to look worse over time, dye sublimation will continue to look good even after multiple uses.
Things to Consider
Dye sublimation isn’t ideal for all printing projects. If your shirt of choice isn’t polyester or polymer-coated, you may want to consider a more traditional screen printing process. The color of your fabric can also affect the imprint colors. It won’t work as well on darker fabrics; the design won’t be as clear. Any white sections of your design will end up the same color as the fabric. This can be counteracted by picking a white or lighter garment.
Dye sublimation is a great option for so many projects and our soft and comfortable long-sleeved shirts may just be perfect for your next project!
Looking to learn more about how we can help with your next project? Need company gear for your team? Contact the Full Press Apparel team at 850-222-1003 or info@fullpressapparel.com for help deciding what’s best for your group or organization.
