What is a Sublimation Printer?
A sublimation printer is a specialized type of printer that uses heat to transfer dye onto materials such as fabric, metal, or plastic. In apparel manufacturing, it's primarily used to create vibrant, durable, and detailed prints that are embedded directly into polyester garments—perfect for custom streetwear, activewear, and performance apparel.
At NO FUGAZI, we often get asked whether sublimation is suitable for your brand—and the short answer is yes, if you're looking for high-definition, all-over garment prints that won’t fade or crack.
How Does a Sublimation Printer Work?
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Design Creation: First, you create a digital design using software like Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop.
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Printing onto Transfer Paper: The sublimation printer uses special inks to print the design onto heat-resistant transfer paper.
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Heat Press Transfer: The transfer paper is placed on the garment and subjected to high heat (around 400°F / 204°C), converting the ink into gas.
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Dye Infusion: The gas permeates the polyester fibers, solidifying into the material and becoming a permanent part of the fabric.
Why Use Sublimation Printing in Clothing Manufacturing?
✅ Advantages:
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No cracking or peeling – the ink becomes part of the fabric.
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Unlimited colors & photo-quality resolution.
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Breathable finish – ideal for sportswear and activewear.
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Eco-friendlier compared to plastisol or solvent-based methods.
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Great for small batches & low MOQ production.
🚫 Limitations:
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Works only on polyester or poly-coated materials.
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Best on white or light-colored garments.
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Not suited for cotton-based apparel.
Best Uses for Sublimation Printing
| Apparel Type | Ideal for Sublimation? | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Sports Jerseys | ✅ Yes | Lightweight, breathable & high-def prints |
| Custom Tracksuits | ✅ Yes | All-over prints with durable design |
| Cotton Hoodies | ❌ No | Cotton doesn’t bond well with sublimation |
| Streetwear Tees (Poly) | ✅ Yes | Style meets performance |
| Fashion Denim Jackets | ❌ No | Sublimation is not suitable for denim |
Environmental Impact of Sublimation Printing
Sublimation produces minimal waste, no water runoff, and doesn’t require harsh chemicals—making it more sustainable than traditional screen printing.
💡 Tip: Opt for recycled polyester garments to take your eco-conscious brand to the next level.
NO FUGAZI’s Sublimation Capabilities
As a modern B2B clothing manufacturer for startups, NO FUGAZI offers sublimation services with:
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Low minimum order quantities (MOQ)
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Full tech pack and design support
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All-over printing with pantone color matching
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Quick turnarounds for brands in the UK, USA, Canada, and Europe
Want to see samples or chat about your custom collection? Contact Us Here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use sublimation on cotton shirts?
A1: No, sublimation requires polyester or poly-blend garments. Cotton doesn't bond with sublimation dyes.
Q2: Is sublimation better than screen printing?
A2: For multi-color, photo-quality designs, sublimation is superior. For basic, bold prints on dark cotton—screen printing may be better.
Q3: What’s the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for sublimation?
A3: At NO FUGAZI, we offer low-MOQ options—perfect for startups and limited edition runs.
Q4: Can I use sublimation for hoodies and joggers?
A4: Yes, if they are made from polyester fleece or similar blends.
Q5: How long does sublimated clothing last?
A5: Sublimated prints don’t fade, peel, or crack—they can last the lifetime of the garment.
Q6: Can I print on dark fabric with sublimation?
A6: Not ideally. Sublimation works best on white or light garments because it doesn’t use white ink.
The Takeaway: Is Sublimation Right for Your Brand?
If your streetwear or activewear brand values bold, durable prints with low MOQs and quick production, sublimation printing is a game-changer. At NO FUGAZI, we guide startups and scaling brands through every step—from concept to collection.
🔗 External Resources for Further Reading
