Have you ever noticed how some images on shirts stand out and you can instantly tell the difference in quality? The garment manufacturers will no doubt know that it is related to a heat transfer type. Heat press machines are commercial-grade irons that transfer a design to a garment using heat and pressure. Diving deep into the world of heat presses offers you the chance to learn a lot and create unique projects. This article will highlight sublimation machines and processes.
About Heat Press Transfers
A heat press machine can transfer custom designs onto accessories such as hats, mugs, shirts, and pillows. They can create a high-temperature surface that covers an entire garment evenly. Heat press machines also feature adjustable heat settings and built-in timers, so you can use them for a wide range of processes.
In the past, heat presses could only be found in commercial settings. However, these machines are now available for small businesses and homes thanks to the evolution of home die-cutting machines. For your business, consider the below variables when choosing a heat press:
-Printing areas
-Type of applications
-Temperature
-Material type
Sublimation Custom Heat Transfers
For sublimation projects, you will need sublimation printers, inks, and sublimation papers. Sublimation ink can be printed with a range of printers, from home printers to commercial quality. When heated, the ink becomes a gas and embeds itself into the material. As the fabric cools, it becomes solid again and becomes permanent. The printed image does not add another layer to the fabric, making the transfer high-quality and durable. This also means it less likely to peel or fade and the design feels like the rest of the fabric.
When you need to print photos or have customers that have specific color requirements, sublimation offers the ability to print in full color. However, sublimation transfer process does not only work on polyester but works on a wide range of poly-coated surfaces. This allows you to customize puzzles, mugs, coasters, and jewelry.
For intricate designs on items, sublimation machines are an excellent investment. However, sublimation heat-press machines require a special printer and ink, and they are expensive.
Heat Transfer Paper and Sublimation Custom Heat Transfers: Differences
Using heat transfer paper for custom heat transfers for garment decoration is super easy and comes at a low cost. Heat transfer paper transfers printed designs to garments by applying heat. The heat transfer process uses a laser or inkjet printer to print the design onto heat transfer paper.
Like heat transfer paper, sublimation paper is used to print designs and press them onto garments using a heat press. Sublimation works only on polyester fabric, while heat transfer paper works on cotton and polyester fabrics. Furthermore, heat transfer papers are designed to work with both dark and light garments, whereas sublimation is exclusive to white or light garments.
Bottom Line
The sublimation machine is a wonderful way to decorate your apparel. By integrating sublimation custom heat transfer into your operation, your business can ensure that your projects will be heated evenly and under even pressure. Sublimation machines can print better-quality graphics, images, and labels on polyester garments. Your customers will appreciate your quality creations. Browse our selection of sublimation heat transfer machines and find the one that meets your needs.
