The dye sublimation process uses heat and pressure to turn solid dye into gas that bonds inside polyester or polymer-coated surfaces. You mirror a design, print it on sublimation paper, then press it at 380°F to 400°F for 40 to 60 seconds. The result is a permanent, full-color print that will not crack, peel, or wash away.

Sublimation printing is a digital method that uses heat and pressure to turn solid dye into gas, which bonds with polyester fibers or polymer-coated surfaces. The image becomes part of the material, so it resists cracking and peeling. Most blanks press at 375°F to 400°F. It works on polyester apparel, coated mugs, and metal panels, but not cotton. Alpha Print Supply supplies sublimation printers, inks, and heat presses.