In the context of printing on fabric, sublimation refers to a specific printing method called sublimation printing or dye sublimation printing. It is a technique that uses heat to transfer dye onto fabrics – including our t-shirts and singlets and polo shirts – creating vibrant, long lasting, and high quality prints.
Sublimation printing involves three main components: special sublimation inks, transfer paper, and a heat press. First, the artwork is created or prepared by our in-house design team in consultation with you. The design is then printed onto a special transfer paper using sublimation inks. These inks are unique because they have the ability to convert from a solid to a gas state without going through the liquid phase. This conversion is known as sublimation.
The printed transfer paper is then placed face down on the fabric. The paper and fabric are then subjected to high heat and pressure using a heat press, causing the sublimation inks to turn into a gas, penetrating the fibres of the fabric and bonding them at a molecular level. After the sublimation process, the fabric is cooled down, solidifying the inks within the fibres of the fabric. The transfer paper is then removed, revealing the final printed design. The fabric pieces are then sewn into your completed garment.
Sublimation printing works best on fabrics with a high polyester content. Polyester fibres have a higher affinity for the sublimation inks, resulting in better colour transfer and vibrancy. It is possible to sublimate onto fabrics with a polyester blend, although the results may vary.
Dye sublimation results in vibrant and durable prints – resistant to fading or cracking as the colours are embedded into the fabric itself rather than sitting on the surface. Sublimation printing is excellent for full colour, photo quality prints with intricate details and gradients, and is commonly used at One Sport for customising our sportswear, school leavers polo shirts, team jerseys, t-shirts, and other apparel items.