Sublimation printing is the new technology printing technique. It is preferred by all because of its durable and amazing print quality. With the help of this printing technique, you can create any customized apparel such as custom all over print shirts.
Some of the frequently asked questions related to the sublimation printing technique are answered. Take a look at the following questions and answered:
1. What is Transfer Printing?
The transfer printing can be categorized into two different printing types: Sublimation and Heat Transfer printing. Each printing technique has its pros and cons. But both of them are suitable for different needs and demands.
2. What is Heat Transfer Printing?
Heat transfer printing uses a special form of paper known as transfer paper. You can use the standard laser or inkjet printer for creating the design on the transfer paper. Once the design is created on the transfer paper, then you have to place it on the clothes and use the heat press.
In some cases, you can use iron in place of a heat press. When the heat is applied to the paper, then the design will stick to the garment. This printing technique can be used on various types of fabric such as poly textiles, natural cotton, etc.
3. What is Sublimation?
Sublimation is the new form of printing method which is growing in popularity. In this printing technique, the search paper and heat press is used for transferring the design
It is recommended to use the printing technique on fabric which constitutes 85% poly. It is so because the poly fibers open up the pores and accept the dye. Also, you can print on the hard surface which has poly-coating like keyrings, mugs, etc.
4. What is Sublimation Paper?
The sublimation paper is also known as the transfer paper and it is specifically used in sublimation printing. Made using a paper substrate, which is broadly based on normal paper.
A special coating added to the paper holds the dye sublimation inks. The coating includes around 35% silica and 5% binder, based on the weight of the paper when it’s dry.
5. How does Sublimation Transfer Printing Work?
The sublimation technique does not need any liquid in the process. The sublimation ink is in solid form and when heated up, then this ink is transformed into a solid state.
This printing technique is usually done on the poly fibers because when the poly fibers are heated, then pores expand. The open pores will let the gas enter inside and fuse with fabric. When the heat press is removed, then gaseous ink will convert into a solid state.
6. How To Use Thermal Transfer Paper to make a T-shirt?
Sublimation printing is a two-step technique. First of all, you have to print the design on the transfer paper with the special sublimation ink. You have to mirror the image so that after printing the appropriate image can be displayed.
Once the design is created on the transfer paper, then you need to press it on the t-shirt and apply the heat press. It will help in transferring the design from paper to the t-shirts and you will have the custom sublimated t shirts.
7. Can We Use Sublimation Printing On Dark Fabric?
The sublimation printing technique is appropriate for the white-colored or light-colored fabric. Well, you can use this technique on dark shades, but it will affect the color of the output design. The biggest advantage of the sublimation printing technique over transfer printing is that you can print a broad range of colors.
8. Is Transfer Paper Sensitive To Humidity?
The sublimation paper already holds an enormous amount of humidity in the paper. Therefore, humid air is not good for it. When the sublimation paper is exposed to a humid environment, then the sublimation paper will absorb humidity like a sponge. Consequently, image bleeding, color shifting, and uneven transfer take place.
9. Which Side Of Sublimation Paper Is Right For Printing?
While doing the sublimation printing, then you should always keep in mind that the design should be printed on the brighter side. You will observe that colors will look pale on the sublimation paper.
It is completely normal and it is not what the finished press will look like. If you have transferred the design from sublimation paper, then beautiful colors will come to life.
10. Is It Ok To Use Transfer Paper Again?
It is not possible to reuse the transfer paper again and again. It is so because the little bit of ink will remain on the sublimation paper even after the completion of the sublimation printing technique.
Therefore, this sublimation paper is not appropriate for printing again. In addition to this, the heat press melts the plastic lining on the paper.
