Customizing Your Product: A closer look at Sublimation

In previous blog posts, we began analyzing different imprint methods to help you determine which method is right for your brand. In this week’s blog we will outline everything you need to know about our sublimation process. As technology continues to improve and provides us with more customization options it is important for you to stay informed about new developments in the promotional products industry.

The first question you’re probably asking yourself is: What is sublimation? In recent times this term has become a bit of a buzzword in the sphere of custom printing. Although the term sounds complicated and high-tech, it’s actually quite simple to understand. Let’s start with the general definition, sublimation can be summarized as: a solid material turning into a gas state without going through the liquid stage. Science!

Now let’s break that down to better understand what this means in the realm of custom printing. As part of the process a design must first be printed onto a specialty sheet of paper. Heat is then used to transfer the design from the paper to the customizable product. When heat is applied, the sublimation ink turns from a solid to a gas which embeds itself into the fabric of the object. As it cools, the ink goes back to a solid state which then becomes a permanent part of the fabric itself. Essentially the design is embedded onto the material of the product rather than printed on the surface.

There are some advantages associated with this printing method. Firstly, as it bypasses the liquid stage there are no inks to dry, making this a quicker and cleaner printing option that leaves little mess behind. Secondly, the result of this printing process is a more permanent transfer with clear full colour images that won’t crack, peel or wash away as the designs become one with the fabric of the object. In many cases the printed design will last as long as the product itself. Furthermore, as no layers are added to the product this results in a softer feel and greater durability.

Lastly, the most exciting part of this imprint method is that it gives you more freedom to control your design, making the customization possibilities virtually endless! Sublimation is also known as “all over printing” as it allows you to customize products from seam-to-seam. This is particularly attractive for businesses that require specific colours to be printed such as a company logo, or for example a product with multiple logos and intricate colour schemes. This printing method is also suitable for designs with many details that may get compromised if embroidered or screen printed.

Sublimation as a customization option works best on products made from polyester fabrics. For example our Polyester Face Masks CM1082 & CM1084. The fibers from which these products are made make it easier for the ink to adhere to the fabric, allowing your design to be rendered clearly and vividly. Printing on products made from this material will ensure your custom imprint won't fade or look distressed.

Sublimation allows for much more detail to be printed, giving you the opportunity to bring your design to life. As these products can be fully customized you are not limited to a specific imprint area. For example our Antimicrobial Tubular Bandana (CM1092) and Antimicrobial Wristband (CM1089) feature your branding throughout the product inside and out. These items also have prominent imprint areas which allow your design to receive some positive exposure when your products are worn in public spaces.

One of the keys to understanding what sublimation can do for your brand is knowing how to use the printing method effectively. Sublimation is better suited for products that will be kept for a long time as the longevity of the imprint allows the product to be used for longer. It is also better suited for products with large imprint areas that are worn in public that way your branding always remains visible.

Sublimation also gives you more freedom to create a unique product that truly expresses your creativity. For this reason sublimation is better suited for complex designs with wide ranging colours and images. If you are just printing one logo for example you may be better off choosing products that can be screen printed, or embroidered, but if you want to really turn heads, sublimation is the way to go!