Sublimation Printing

Full history + how it actually works (simple, no fluff)

What is sublimation printing

Sublimation is a printing method where solid ink turns into gas with heat and bonds permanently with a polymer-coated surface. No liquid stage. The print goes inside the material, not on top of it. That’s why it never peels or cracks.

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Short History (real timeline)

• 1950s – Scientists discover the sublimation process in chemistry
• 1957 – First industrial sublimation dyes developed
• 1980s – Used in textile and industrial marking
• 1990s – Digital sublimation printers appear
• 2000s–Present – Becomes popular for mugs, T-shirts, plates, phone cases, photo gifts

Today, sublimation is the backbone of custom gifting and promotional printing.

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Where sublimation works (important)

Sublimation works ONLY on:

• Polyester fabric (minimum 60%, best 100%)
• Polymer-coated items like:
  • Ceramic mugs
  • Metal photo sheets
  • Keychains
  • Phone covers
  • Tiles

❌ It does NOT work on cotton, wood, glass (without coating).

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How sublimation printing works (step by step)

Step 1: Design

• Create design in CorelDRAW / Photoshop
• Mirror the image (very important for mugs & T-shirts)

Step 2: Print

• Use sublimation ink
• Print on sublimation transfer paper
• Printer example: Epson (converted for sublimation)

Step 3: Heat Press

• Place paper on product
• Apply heat & pressure

Standard settings (guide):

• Ceramic Mug: 180–200°C | 180–240 sec
• T-Shirt: 190–200°C | 30–40 sec

Step 4: Transfer

• Heat turns ink into gas
• Ink penetrates polymer coating
• Remove paper after pressing

Result: Permanent, washable, scratch-resistant print

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Why sublimation is so popular

• Print never fades
• No cracking or peeling
• Photo-quality results
• Zero hand-feel
• Ideal for gifting & branding

That’s why mugs, photo frames, and corporate gifts rely on it.

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Basic equipment needed

• Sublimation printer
• Sublimation ink
• Sublimation paper
• Heat press machine (mug press / flat press)
• Polymer-coated blanks

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Common mistakes beginners make

• Using normal ink ❌
• Printing on cotton ❌
• Forgetting mirror print ❌
• Wrong temperature/time ❌
• Low-quality coating ❌

Avoid these and you’re good.

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If you want, I can:

• Explain sublimation mug printing only
• Give exact settings for Indian climate
• Share a starter setup under budget
• Help you price sublimation products for business (perfect for Novotech Print)

Just tell me what you want next.