What Do I Need For Sublimation Printing?
Sublimation Printing
Sublimation printing is a process that allows you to print custom designs onto a wide variety of products. This process involves transferring an image from paper to fabric using heat.
In order to make the process work, you need a few key items. These include a sublimation printer, sublimation transfers, and a heat press.
1. Sublimation Paper
What do I need for sublimation printing?
For a sublimation print, you need a special type of paper. These types of paper are designed to absorb and retain the ink used in the process.
The best type of sublimation paper is a high-quality product that has a transfer rate of at least 100 gsm, fast drying speed, ink-saving performance and does not fade, smudge or crack. It also must be able to resist water, humidity and stains.
This is because sublimation inks are very sensitive to moisture, which can cause image bleeding, uneven transfers and colour shifting.
Another thing to watch out for when using sublimation paper is ghosting, which can be lighter areas on the design that aren’t as dark as the rest of it.
In order to avoid ghosting, you can tape the design down so that the gases from the ink can’t escape. This can be a very important step in the process.
2. Ink – What Do I Need For Sublimation Printing?
If you are interested in sublimation printing, then you will need a few things to get started. These items include ink, substrate, and a heat press.
The ink you use is a special formula that is designed to be used on the substrate you are printing on. This is different from the ink that comes with your desktop or office printer.
A sublimation printer is a special type of printer that allows for the use of ink that will transfer to a substrate through the use of a heat press or oven. This is a process called dye sublimation.
This is an excellent way to print designs onto a variety of different materials. It is also extremely durable and will not fade or crack over time.
3. Substrate
Dye sublimation printing is a popular method of transferring an image onto a base material or substrate. Typically, polyester fabrics and coated products work well as substrates for this type of printing because they can hold the ink during the heating process.
However, there are some limitations to this printing process. For example, sublimation ink cannot be directly printed on dark-colored items.
The substrate you use for sublimation printing is essential to the process and can make all the difference in the final product. For best results, choose a material that is at least 60% polyester.
The heat press you will need for your sublimation projects is another vital piece of equipment. It is important to get a high-quality heat press that produces consistent and even pressure. Improper pressure can cause color imbalances, imperfections and ghosting.
4. Heat Press – What Do I Need For Sublimation Printing?
Sublimation printing is an eco-friendly printing method that uses a heat press to transfer your design. It has a variety of benefits, including high volume production and durability.
The process works by releasing gases when heated, opening pores in the material and creating an imprint. Polyester and other porous materials are ideal for this type of printing.
A quality heat press will have precise settings for time, temperature and pressure that ensures that your design looks perfect. There are many different types of heat presses to choose from, so be sure to find one that best suits your needs.
A good heat press can be a little expensive, so it’s important to look for a model that will last you for years and produce the best results. You’ll need a heat press that has a strong base, can be moved around easily and is easy to clean.
