Have you been wondering what all the hype is around sublimation? We'll tell you all you need to know about the process and why it's so cool. Strap in!

The Basics

Can you give me the basics? In scientific terms, sublimation is the transition from a solid to a gas. In shirt printing terms, it's a method of printing that transfers ink into a shirt.

How does it work?

We can't give away all the secrets, but we'll tell you a few things. First, sublimation requires a special paper for the design to be printed on that will turn into a gas when applied with heat. From there, the ink will blend seamlessly into the material.

We can't give away all the secrets, but we'll tell you a few things. First, sublimation requires a special paper for the design to be printed on that will turn into a gas when applied with heat. From there, the ink will blend seamlessly into the material.

Sublimation vs Heat Transfer?

Why is it different than a heat transfer?

Sublimation permanently transfers ink into a polyester/polymer, so while both methods create long-lasting designs, sublimation transfers only the ink directly into the fabric, and a heat-transferred shirt would apply the transfer layer as well. Both are great options, but sublimation is great for a little pizzazz.

What can be sublimated?

What can you sublimate?

You can sublimate any light-colored polyester fabric or polymer coating. Think shirts, mugs, cups, coasters, mousepads, coozies, keychains, flags, and pretty much any light-colored poly-ish item under the sun. Sublimation is perfect for a seamless design to your garment and can create a vintage look for shirts.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• No chance of fading, cracking or peeling of a design.
• Seamless appearance in design.
• Can be done on a variety of products.

• Can't be used with natural materials like cotton or cotton blends.
• Can only use sublimation with light-colored material.
• Your merch will look so cool that you'll get too many people staring at you and talking about your cool shirt/cup/mousepad.