What is sublimation?
Sublimation prints dye onto transfer paper, then presses it against polyester at around 200°C, where the dye turns to gas and bonds inside the fibre. There is nothing on the surface. It only works on polyester and only shows on a light base.
Why it matters
It is the method for all-over prints, sports kits and anything on performance fabric. Names, numbers and full-colour artwork cost the same per piece as a plain design because every garment prints from its own file.
On our floor
For all-over designs we print the panels before cutting, so the pattern runs across seams. A chest placement adds roughly $1.40 per piece at 50; a full all-over panel print around $5.50.
Common questions
- Can you sublimate cotton?
- No — the dye bonds only to polyester. On cotton it washes out.
- Why are sublimated garments white-based?
- The dye is transparent and cannot print white, so the garment supplies the white and the print supplies the colour.
- Does it affect breathability?
- No. There is no ink layer on the surface, which is why it is the sportswear standard.
- What polyester content is needed?
- 100% for full colour; 65% and above works with softer colour.
Related terms
DTF printing
DTF — direct-to-film — prints your artwork onto a clear film with a white backing layer, coats it with adhesive powder, and heat-presses it…
interlock
Interlock is a double-knit fabric — two layers of jersey knitted together so both faces are smooth. It is heavier, more stable and less…
polyester
Polyester is a synthetic fibre that wicks moisture, dries quickly, resists shrinking and holds colour through hot washing. It is the fibre…
cut and sew
Cut and sew means the garment is made from fabric — cut to a pattern and sewn — rather than bought as a finished blank and decorated. It is…
Where this applies
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