What is dye sublimation?

The short version: dye sublimation ink on transfer sheets, usually printed using an inkjet printer, is heat pressed onto the substrate. The ink is turned into a gas from the heat, and sublimates directly into the substrate. Consequently you can only use compatible substrates, which in the case of fabric means man-made fibres such as polyester.

The advantage is once printed, the ink is in the substrate, not sitting on top where it can crack, flake off, etc.

Historically the process was done via screen-printed transfer sheets, but these days is usually (maybe even always?) done via digital printing.

Other than that... you'll probably find a lot of info reading this section of the forums

Thx, I understand

For dye-sublimation printing you would need a printer with dye-sub inks and dye-sub paper, heat press and sublimation friendly blanks - man-made fabrics and polymer-coated substrates. Alternatively, if you've got a heat press already, you can get dye-sub transfers farmed out.

D.Evo. said:

For dye-sublimation printing you would need a printer with dye-sub inks and dye-sub paper, heat press and sublimation friendly blanks - man-made fabrics and polymer-coated substrates. Alternatively, if you've got a heat press already, you can get dye-sub transfers farmed out.

Click to expand...

Ohh, thanks - any recommended sources for custom dye-sub transfers?

you can also get a lot of information at DyeSub.org - An educational site for dye sublimation and digital transfer printing.

as for as custom transfers...post your request under referrals (I think it is)..I know several of us do that

fun business, once you get out the bugs. try and find a niche' market. good luck uncletee.