If you’re in the market for custom sportswear or promotional products, you may have come across the term ‘sublimation fabric’. But what exactly is it and how does it work? This article will explain everything you need to know about sublimation fabric.
What Is Sublimation Fabric?
Sublimation fabric is a type of material that is specially designed for sublimation printing. Unlike traditional printing methods, sublimation printing uses heat to transfer ink onto the fabric, resulting in a vibrant, long-lasting print.
How Does Sublimation Printing Work?
Sublimation printing works by converting ink from a solid to a gas without passing through a liquid phase. The ink is first printed onto a transfer paper and then heat-pressed onto the fabric, where it turns into a gas and penetrates the fibers of the fabric. As the fabric cools, the ink re-solidifies and becomes a permanent part of the fabric.
What Are the Benefits of Sublimation Fabric?
There are several benefits to using sublimation fabric, including:
- High-quality, vibrant prints that won’t fade or crack over time
- Ability to print complex designs and photographic images
- No limit on the number of colors used in the design
- No visible texture or feel to the printed design
- Durable and long-lasting, even after multiple washes
What Types of Products Can be Made with Sublimation Fabric?
Sublimation fabric can be used to create a variety of products, including:
- Custom sportswear
- Promotional products
- Flags and banners
- Home decor items, such as pillows and blankets
FAQ
What types of fabrics can be used for sublimation printing?
Sublimation printing works best on polyester or polyester blend fabrics. The higher the polyester content, the better the transfer will be.
Is sublimation printing eco-friendly?
Yes, sublimation printing is eco-friendly as it uses water-based inks and doesn’t produce any harmful waste.
Can sublimation printing be used on dark fabrics?
No, sublimation printing is only suitable for light-colored fabrics as the ink is transparent and won’t show up on dark colors.
What is the minimum order quantity for sublimation printing?
The minimum order quantity for sublimation printing varies depending on the supplier, but it’s typically around 25-50 pieces.
How long does sublimation printing take?
The printing process itself only takes a few minutes, but the overall turnaround time will depend on the supplier’s production schedule and shipping times.
Can sublimation printing be used for embroidery?
No, sublimation printing and embroidery are two different techniques and cannot be used together.
Is sublimation printing more expensive than traditional screen printing?
Sublimation printing can be more expensive than traditional screen printing, especially for small orders. However, it’s often more cost-effective for larger orders or orders with multiple colors.
Can sublimation printing be used for custom face masks?
Yes, sublimation printing can be used to create custom face masks. However, it’s important to use a polyester or polyester blend fabric for the best results.
Pros of Sublimation Fabric
Sublimation fabric offers several advantages over traditional printing methods, including:
- High-quality, long-lasting prints
- No limit on the number of colors used in the design
- Ability to print photographic images and complex designs
- No visible texture or feel to the printed design
- Eco-friendly and uses water-based inks
Tips for Using Sublimation Fabric
If you’re planning to use sublimation fabric, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use a polyester or polyester blend fabric for the best results
- Make sure the fabric is pre-treated and free of any residue or oils
- Print the design onto transfer paper using a sublimation printer
- Use a heat press to transfer the design onto the fabric
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for temperature and time settings
Summary
Sublimation fabric is a specially designed material for sublimation printing, which uses heat to transfer ink onto the fabric. It offers several advantages over traditional printing methods, including high-quality, long-lasting prints, the ability to print complex designs and photographic images, and an eco-friendly process. If you’re planning to use sublimation fabric, make sure to use a polyester or polyester blend fabric and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
