Sublimation Printing vs. Heat Transfer Paper Printing: Is there a difference?

Both Sublimation vs. Heat Transfer is applicable but debatable for printing garments like t-shirts; however, for the new users, heat transfer is suitable compared to tricky sublimation methods.

Comparing Sublimation and Heat Transfer

We can use sublimation printing and heat transfer for printing t-shirts and other garments. Especially if we are doing it without any experience, heat transfer is suitable. Inkjet printers and laser technology are used for the task. The printing choice depends on the type of product one needs.

Facts about Sublimation Printing

• The Sublimation dye turns into gas when it is exposed to heat. The gas is again injected according to design on the fabric and turns into a solid.
• Always remember to flip the design before printing to avoid reverse Printing.
• A specific sublimation printer is needed for this mode of Printing.
• Sublimation prints are likely to stay intact on polyester fabrics.
• The adhesiveness in sublimation prints is greater than any other.
• Sublimation ink also uses the element of heat press. The technique is favorable on all printing materials.
• The four-color combination, i-e, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Overcoating, has reduced the need for black color.
• The overcoating protects the print against humidity.
• Sublimation printing can be done on ceramics, textiles, polyester fabric, metals, fibreboard, and other materials.

Facts about Heat Transfer

• Heat transfer is done in two simple steps.
• The design is printed on transfer paper and then onto adhesive paper.
• The sheet is pressed against the shirt with a heat press.
• After the design shifts, the adhesive is removed from the garment.
• The design is only printed on the garment’s surface, unlike sublimation print, which gets completely absorbed in the fabric.
• Like sublimation printing, a special kind of heat transfer paper is needed.
• The process for heat transfer vs. Sublimation is easy.
• The design gets transferred to the required material by applying heat through iron or heat press.
• The perfect results come after it cools down.

Peculiarities of Sublimation Printing

Sublimation printing is easy and simple with sublimation or inkjet sublimation Printers. The Sublimation is converting solid dyes into the gaseous state. This process lets the ink absorb in garments completely, making them durable and stable from light and heat. However, there are some advantages and disadvantages of using Sublimation.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Sublimation Printing

Peculiarities of Heat Transfer

Heat transfer printing is done through an Inkjet printer or a laser printer using heat transfer paper. The process is done using the heat press technique or a heated iron.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Heat Transfer Printing

Which one is better? Sublimation or Heat Transfer?

Both Sublimation and Heat Transfer are great ways to customize and embellish garments. They both work with their differences with different results. However, there is a need for both types for users.

Why choose sublimation printing?

Sublimation printing is the best choice for people wanting vibrant and durable prints. Although, the process needs a great investment to start. Sublimation printing can be done on light surfaces with polyester fabrics. It gives quick and accurate results. This mode of Printing needs a specific sublimation printer. Sublimation printing is the best option for Printing polyester-based fabrics.

Why choose Heat Transfer printing?

For beginners, heat transfer printing is the best method. Customization and durable prints are the resultant of Heat Transfer printing. This mode of Printing is cheaper than Sublimation and can be done on all types and colors of fabrics. The steps for heat transfer printing are easy to follow.