Understanding Sublimation on Dark Fabrics

Sublimation is a popular technique in the printing world, but understanding how to correctly use the process on different materials is essential to achieve optimal results. For those new to the realm of sublimation, there's a lot to consider, especially when working with various fabric types and colors.

Sublimation on Dark Colors

One of the primary concerns with sublimation is its compatibility with dark-colored garments. It's essential to understand that sublimation ink is transparent, meaning the ink must be darker than the material it's applied to. For instance, applying black ink on a red shirt is feasible, whereas using cream-colored ink will not yield the desired outcome.

The Role of Fabric Blend in Sublimation

The type of fabric plays a pivotal role in the sublimation process. The process is primarily compatible with polyester. Therefore, when attempting to sublimate on blends, only the polyester content within them will hold the ink effectively. This property means that the higher the polyester content in the fabric, the less likely the printed image will fade over time. For instance:

• On a 50/50 polyester-cotton blend, approximately half of the ink will fade.
• For better results, a 65/35 polyester-cotton blend is often recommended as a minimum polyester content.

Optimal Fabric for Sublimation

It's noteworthy to mention that sublimation produces the best results on white polyester. This observation might present challenges for businesses whose clientele prefer dark or colored fabrics over white. However, there's a solution for those willing to innovate. Many professionals leverage the heathering effect seen in 65/35% poly/cotton heather-colored shirts, like the Gildan 64000. The clear polyester fibers that constitute 65% of the fabric permit dye sublimation. Conversely, the non-heathered colors of the same brand, being 100% cotton, cannot undergo the sublimation process.

For those interested in using dark poly blend heathers, they can consider bleaching out the dye from the cotton sections where they intend to apply the sublimated image. However, it's crucial to note that not all colors bleach uniformly. Alternatively, screen printing with water-based discharge ink might be another method to explore.

Alternatives to In-house Sublimation

It's essential to mention that while in-house sublimation offers control over the process, some find the maintenance and costs associated with certain sublimation printers, like the Sawgrass, to be challenging. In such cases, using a service bureau for sublimations can be both cost-effective and offer high-quality results.

Continuous Learning and Resources

For those eager to dive deeper into the intricacies of sublimation, there are a plethora of resources available. Platforms like YouTube are brimming with tutorials such as "How to sublimate a shirt", which can serve as excellent starting points. Additionally, various forums and sub-forums dedicated to sublimation can be invaluable resources.

For more insights, tutorials, and tech tips, we invite you to follow our YouTube Channel, check out our Tech blog, or if you're in the area, visit us in Greensboro, North Carolina. Whether you're a novice or an expert, there's always something new to learn in the ever-evolving world of sublimation.