Sublimation printing
Vivid, full-colour designs that become part of the material itself, so they never crack, peel or fade.
Sublimation is ideal for edge-to-edge designs on sportswear, rash vests and branded accessories such as mugs. Because the ink bonds with the material rather than sitting on top, you can't feel the print at all.
How it works
Printed onto paper
Your design is printed in special sublimation inks onto transfer paper.
Positioned
The paper is placed onto the garment or item exactly where the design should go.
Heat and pressure
A heat press turns the ink into a gas, which flows into the polyester fibres or coating.
Bonded for good
As it cools, the ink sets inside the material, leaving a permanent, smooth finish.
Why sublimation
- Full colour, gradients and photographs, right to the edges
- No feel or weight, and the fabric stays breathable
- Won't crack, peel or wash out over time
- Perfect for sportswear, rash vests and performance kit
- Also works on coated items such as mugs and drinkware
Good to know
- Works on polyester or high-polyester fabrics, and specially coated items
- Best on white or light colours, as the inks are transparent
- For cotton or dark garments, DTF printing is the better choice
- Artwork: high-resolution files at the full print size, or vector files
Not sure which method suits your item? Ask us and we'll recommend the best option.
Not quite right for your project?
Have a design in mind?
Tell us what you'd like to create and we'll put together a proposal.
