Sublimation printing what is it, advantages and disadvantages

There are different printing techniques . , and choosing between one or the other will depend on the design and the item to be print on. The origin of  sublimation printing  dates back to the 1970s and, although it was not initially considered as a printing technique, they realize that in the same way as water, inks could be converted into gas at very high temperatures.

Today, sublimation printing is  one of the most use techniques to transfer photographs or illustrations with high quality,  since unlike other methods, it can be done on a large number of surfaces, such as metal, ceramics or glass, among many others.

What is sublimation printing?

Sublimation is a simple printing technique to personalize different items. The ink use is sensitive to heat and  goes directly from the solid state to the gaseous state.

For sublimation, the chosen design will be print . with a special printer on a matte inkjet paper or on a thermal paper. Finally, we will put pressure on the article so that the ink is transfer from the paper to the object.

Advantages and disadvantages of sublimation

Sublimation printing has great advantages and some disadvantages that must be taken into account before opting for this method. Among the  advantages  of the sublimation technique, we can highlight the following:

• Sublimation, unlike screen printing and like digital printing,  allows unlimit color printing of photos and illustrations.
• Thanks to the heat use to carry out the process,  the impression is very precise and durable.
• It is one of the few methods that can also be carry out on rigid supports, since in  addition to textile sublimation, sublimation printing can be perform on multiple materials:  polyester, glass, ceramic, plastic or metal, among many others.
• It is not necessary to print a minimum quantity, since  whether you print one unit or print many more, the unit cost is the same.

On the other hand, some of the  disadvantages  of sublimation printing are as follows:

• It can only be print on textiles that have at least 70% polyester  in their composition.
• On non-textile surfaces, you can only print on objects that have been previously  coat with a special polyester coating.

• Objects must have a  light background  so that it can be sublimation print.                                                                                                                                          More Disadvantages

• Sublimate objects permanently expose to direct sunlight  may discolor.
• The fabric must be 100% polyester or with at least 2/3 polyester in its composition.
• For non-textile surfaces, it can only be use on objects to which a special polyester coating  has been applu .
• Sublimable items must have a white or light background . It is not possible to sublimate on black background or dark colors.
• If the sublimated item is permanently expose to direct  sunlight , over the months it may lose color due to the effect of UV rays.
• Like all inkjet printers, the printheads may have a clogging problem if not use frequently. For this reason, it is recommend to always keep the printer turn on . because it will automatically perform a daily head cleaning.

Conclusion

In summary,  sublimation printing is the ideal technique to personalize gift items such  as mugs, plates, magnets or key rings, as long as these have been prepare in advance so that they can be print on and are not dark in color.