We have finally made the jump. Along with Screen printing Zaluski Designs has added Sublimation Printing and DTF Printing. We are so excited to be able to create even more for you to enjoy.
What is Sublimation Printing?
This sublime technique is a process that creates unique items that include but not limited to clothing, accessories and drinkware. Sublimation printing is a design process where inks are transferred onto the product using heat.
Sublimation printing uses heat to fuse ink and surface material or fabric, depending on the case. The inks used in the sublimation process turn into gas when brought under heat, then combine with the textile and permanently imprint onto the fabric. The result is permanent and significantly less prone to fading, as the ink penetrates the material instead of simply laying on top like a regular print.
Think of sublimation printing almost like tattooing where fabric is used instead of skin. Then, instead of pores, there are fibers that open up under the heat. There the ink cools while pressure is applied, transitioning back to a solid, secure form.
When it comes to sublimation t-shirt printing, the artwork is first printed onto a special sheet of paper. That image is then transferred onto another material, like polyester or a polyester mix, and the ink then gets heated until it literally disintegrates into the material. The process of sublimation shirt printing may cost more than other methods (screen printing) but it lasts longer and won’t crack or peel over time.
The Cons of Sublimation Printing? Sublimation printing isn’t available for natural fibers like cotton or silk – it’s only suitable for garments that include pure polyester or polyester blend. Although you could use cotton, the image won’t be permanent, plus cotton fibers are way more absorbent, and the outcome simply won’t be pretty. And silk would just get damaged in the process as it is not heat resistant at all.
What is DTF Printing?
DTF Printing involves printing a design onto a piece of PET film (a special film with a coating that helps transfer designs) using water-based inks and a special powder adhesive. Then, the design on the PET film is heat transferred to fabric using a heat press machine. This printing method is durable and the designs come out very detailed and vibrant.
Unlike Sublimation Printing, DTF Printing can be applied to cotton and silk garments.