The process of clothing sublimation printing

2025,09,06

The process of clothing sublimation printing is an important technology in the modern fashion industry, which provides unlimited creative possibilities for clothing designers and manufacturers, while also increasing the added value of products. In this article, we will delve into the process and application of clothing sublimation printing technology.

Clothing sublimation printing technology is a process of transferring pigments from solids to cellulose fibers through high temperature and high pressure. This technology not only achieves bright colors and clear patterns, but also enables precise expression of details, making it widely popular in the fields of clothing design and customization.

1、 Technological advantages

Strong color persistence and resistance to fading.

It can achieve complex and colorful patterns and details.

Suitable for various types of cellulose fibers, such as cotton, polyester, etc.

2、 Process flow

The process of clothing sublimation printing mainly includes four steps: preparation work, pattern design, printing, and post-processing.

Clothing sublimation transfer printing requires the preparation of three core modules: equipment, consumables, and materials. The specific list is as follows:

1. Core equipment

-Computer+design software: used for creating/editing patterns, commonly used software such as Photoshop, CorelDRAW, AI.

-Sublimation printer: To print patterns onto transfer paper, special sublimation ink is required (ordinary ink cannot be used).

-Heat transfer machine: Provides stable temperature, pressure, and time. Common types include flat plate heat transfer machines (suitable for flat clothing) and drum heat transfer machines (suitable for curved/thick materials such as hoodies and hats).

2. Specialized consumables

-Thermal sublimation transfer paper: divided into matte, glossy and other types, it needs to be matched with the printer (such as inkjet transfer paper).

-Thermal sublimation ink: It is transparent in color and will sublime into gas when heated. It is necessary to choose ink compatible with the printer model (such as piezoelectric sublimation ink for piezoelectric printers).

-Auxiliary tools: High temperature tape (fixing transfer paper and clothing to prevent displacement), scraper (flattening fabric wrinkles), lint roller (cleaning dust/fluff on the surface of clothing to avoid pattern defects).

3. Applicable materials

-Clothing fabric: It should contain more than 50% polyester fiber (pure polyester is preferred). Natural fibers such as cotton and linen are not suitable (sublimation ink cannot adhere). Common suitable fabrics include quick drying clothes, sportswear, and polyester hoodies.

-Clothing to be printed: Ensure that the fabric is flat and free of stains, and it is recommended to clean it in advance.

Author:

Ms. Esther Lin

E-mail:

jiangyinwanbang@outlook.com

Phone/WhatsApp:

+86 13915278820