What is sublimation?
Let’s start with the broad strokes. What exactly is sublimation?
In simple terms, it’s a method of printing that transfers a design into a material or fabric using ink and heat. In the world of apparel, it’s a game changer in that it allows whole garment prints and designs that go seam-to-seam.
The sublimation printing process
So how does sublimation work? Well, sublimation printing uses heat to essentially bring ink and fabric together as one.
First, a design is printed onto special paper. The inks that are used turn into gas when brought under heat, then combine with the fabric and permanently print onto the fabric. The effects are permanent and less prone to fading, as the ink is embedded in the fabric or substrate rather than simply laying on top like a normal print.
The process is almost like a tattoo, but instead of for your skin, it’s for your chosen product. The heat opens up the pores of the fabric, then with the applied pressure the ink cools and returns to a solid form.
Sublimation is a great way to start your own printing. The printers and equipment used are normally significantly cheaper than other forms of printing. Personalised Gifts printed by Spotted Lizard prints.
🌟 What Sublimation Printing Is
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Sublimation printing uses heat + pressure to turn solid dyes into gas (without becoming liquid), which then bond with polyester fibres or special polymer-coated surfaces.
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The result is a permanent, vibrant, and durable print that won’t crack, peel, or wash away easily.
🕰️ Timeline of the Invention
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Early 1950s–1960s – Discovery of Sublimation Dyes
- Chemists in the 1950s discovered dyes that could sublimate (go directly from solid to gas).
- These were mainly disperse dyes — small, non-ionic molecules that could penetrate polyester when heated.
- This discovery laid the foundation for the process.
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1970s – Heat Transfer Printing
- Japanese researchers (notably in companies like Sawgrass and Seiko Epson later on) refined sublimation techniques for textiles.
- In the 1970s, sublimation transfer paper and heat presses became more widespread in the fashion and sportswear industries.
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1980s–1990s – Desktop & Inkjet Adaptation
- The 1990s saw sublimation inks adapted for inkjet printers.
- Companies like Sawgrass Technologies (founded in 1988) pioneered commercial sublimation inks for printers, making the technology accessible for small businesses and home use.
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2000s Onwards – Widespread Use
- Sublimation printing became the go-to method for personalised gifts (mugs, t-shirts, photo slates, cushions, etc.).
- Advances in printer heads (Epson, Ricoh, Mimaki) improved colour vibrancy and efficiency.
🚀 Why It Was Revolutionary
- Full-colour, permanent printing on polyester — unlike screen printing, which can fade/peel.
- No raised ink layer — the fabric stays soft and breathable.
- Small-batch / customisation friendly — perfect for personalised products.
- Expanded beyond textiles into ceramics, metals, plastics (with polymer coatings).
The result is a permanent, full colour image that won’t crack, peel or wash away from the substrate. The process allows the ink to go from a solid to a gas without turning to liquid, a bit like dry ice. The conversion is initiated by heat and controlled by pressure. Check out our Youtube channel for more information:
This quick and effective digital print method is growing in popularity for smaller batch orders and those designs that rely on the details. Sublimation printing is also known as ‘all over printing’ as it allows you to choose a design that can literally go from seam to seam. Check out our website for unique personalised Gifts. Checkout our blog for regular updates. Personalised unique gift ideas from Spotted Lizard prints.
Hand printed personalised Gifts sent Worldwide. – Spottedlizardprints