What Do You Need?

In order to make this form of printing possible, there are five essential tools needed.

1. Sublimation Printer

First of all, the most important item would be a sublimation ink printer. This type of technology is created for both home and factory use. Just a few years ago, these sublimation machines would be very expensive. With the increase in demand of printed products, these types of printers have significantly reduced in price. Popular sublimation printer brands include Mimaki, Mutoh, and Durst.

Dye Sublimation Printer

2. Sublimation Paper

With the sublimation printer, any spectrum color can be created and transferred onto printing paper suitable for the machine. This type of paper is referred to as sublimation paper or transfer paper. One can print a personal work of art, a customized logo, a family picture, or any design desired for use onto the paper like they do with office paper.

3. Computer & RIP Software

Some sublimation printers include software necessary in setting up what will be printed out. These computer programs are called RIP software, short for ‘Raster Image Processor’. Not all printers include this addition, but RIP can be purchased separately. It needs to be stressed that the software must be compatible with the type of printer being used.

4. Cutting Mechanism

Other recommended items for sublimation include a cutting device, whether it is a knife or a rotary blade. This is required when creating original fabric items. There are some cutting products that include more than one option in one system to suit all needs. One would also need a sewing machine for hemming the material. This is particularly necessary when creating SEG (or Silicone Edge Graphic) frames.

5. Type of Heat Press

Another necessary item for printing is a heat press, which is the next step in the sublimation process after printing. Like the printer, sublimation transfers come in a variety of sizes, models, and prices to suit all needs. The function of the heat press is to remove the design from the sublimation paper onto the requested material, such as coffee mugs, t-shirts, and tablecloths. By doing so, this will create an item with a more vivid image that is resistant to fading, making it more durable for the long run.

When it comes to dye sublimation, there are four types of sublimation transfers that can be used:

Calendar Heat Press

When sublimation printing on larger, though softer, material, such as for fabric signs, a calendar heat press would be the choice. This press is bigger and accommodates printing on clothes as well as banners.

Small Heat Press

If sublimating on just little items, such as creating a design on handheld kitchenware, a small heat press would be suggested. This press doesn’t take up a lot of space and can incorporate pressing different types of items.

Flatbed Heat Press

For harder material, such as floor tiles and similar home décor, a flatbed heat press would be recommended for sublimation. This type of press is versatile and also suits printing on apparel.

3D Vacuum Heat Press

Finally, if dealing with smaller objects with more diverse shapes and edges, a 3D vacuum heat press is the way to go. This type of machine was designed for sublimating on surfaces that aren’t flat, opening the field of printing to a wider range of products.