Sublimation Printing in Ocala, FL

Why does sublimation only work on polyester?

Sublimation dyes bond specifically with polyester fibers through a chemical process. When heated, the dye turns to gas and permanently embeds into synthetic fibers. Natural fibers like cotton don't have the molecular structure to accept sublimation dyes, so they require at least 65% polyester content.

Can sublimation be done on dark garments?

No, sublimation works best on white or very light-colored polyester garments. The dye is translucent, so it won't show up on dark fabrics. For dark garments, we recommend DTF printing or screen printing instead, which can produce vibrant colors on any fabric color.

How durable are sublimated prints?

Sublimation is extremely durable because the dye actually becomes part of the fabric fibers. Properly sublimated prints won't crack, peel, or fade even after hundreds of washes. This makes it ideal for athletic wear and items that need to withstand frequent washing.

What's the difference between sublimation and heat transfer vinyl?

Sublimation creates a much softer feel because there's no material sitting on top of the fabric - the design becomes part of the garment. Heat transfer vinyl sits on top and can have a plastic feel. However, sublimation is limited to polyester while vinyl works on any fabric.

Can you do all-over sublimation prints?

Yes! All-over sublimation is one of our specialties. We can print edge-to-edge designs that cover the entire garment, including sleeves and sides. This is perfect for athletic uniforms, custom jerseys, or unique fashion pieces with continuous patterns.

What file types work best for sublimation?

High-resolution files work best - we recommend 300 DPI PNG or TIFF files for photos, or vector files (AI, EPS) for logos and graphics. Since sublimation can reproduce millions of colors, we can handle complex photographic images and gradient designs beautifully.

Do colors look different after sublimation?

Colors may appear slightly different due to the sublimation process and fabric type. We provide color proofing for critical color matching projects. Generally, colors become more vibrant and saturated during sublimation, which creates the brilliant, eye-catching results sublimation is known for.

What's your minimum order for sublimation?

We can do single-piece sublimation orders, making it perfect for prototypes, samples, or personal custom items. However, sublimation becomes more cost-effective with larger quantities due to setup and material costs. We're happy to discuss the best approach for your specific needs.