Heat Transfer vs. Sublimation

With the emergence of Direct-To-Film transfers and self-weeding laser transfer papers, the use of printed vinyl is declining. The newer technologies offer more versatility, higher quality and avoid the cumbersome weeding process, making them more efficient for a wider range of projects.

 

Heat transfer paper

Heat transfer paper offers a range of options in terms of printing techniques. It involves printing a design onto specially coated paper, then transferred onto the fabric using heat. The simplicity and the ability to use standard printers make it a popular entry-level option.

Different types of heat transfer papers are available, including inkjet, laser, and sublimation paper. (Sublimation is covered later in this article.)

- Pros: The overall advantage of heat transfer paper is its affordability and ease of use. It doesn't require any specialized equipment beyond a printer (inkjet or laserjet, depending on the paper) and a heat press or iron, making it highly accessible for beginners or small-scale operations.

 
- Cons: Heat transfer paper can lack durability compared to other heat transfer methods. Designs may fade or crack after multiple washes. Additionally, certain types of heat transfer paper can pose challenges when used on dark garments, limiting their versatility.

 
- Best used for: Heat transfer paper is ideal for DIY projects, crafting, and small-scale production. It's excellent for easily creating personalized apparel, mugs, and other items.

 

Screen print transfers

Screen Print Transfers are a unique combination of the vibrancy and color accuracy of traditional screen printing with the versatility of a transfer system. Rather than applying ink directly onto a garment, designs are screen printed onto a specialized heat transfer paper and adhesive powder. Once dry, it can be stored and is ready to be transferred onto the fabric using heat when needed.

- Pros: Same pros as screen printing. Vibrant colors, durability, and the ability to accurately match Pantone colors–a key selling point of traditional screen printing. Versatility comes into play, as a large batch of transfers can be printed and stored for application to different items as needed. This speeds up the process and reduces waste, especially for recurring designs.

 
- Cons: Requires the creation of screens for each color in the design. This can be time-consuming and costly, particularly for complex, multi-colored designs. Also, like traditional screen printing, there can be challenges holding details and getting smooth gradients.

 
- Best used for: Getting a traditional screen printed look and feel. They're also beneficial for situations where a large quantity of the same design is needed, such as concerts, corporate events, or team sports. Since they can be stored, they allow for print-on-demand of multi-color screen prints, which is typically not feasible.

 

Direct-To-Film (DTF) Transfers

Direct-to-Film (DTF) is a revolutionary method in the realm of heat transfer printing that melds the best of digital printing and heat transfer processes, using specially made inkjet printers, DTF ink, and PET film. Two crucial steps that set DTF transfers apart are a layer of white ink underbase printed along with the colors, followed by applying a hot melt adhesive powder. The transfer is heat pressed, and the film is simply peeled away.

- Pros: Vibrant, full-color designs with exceptional detail on a wide variety of fabric types, including dark and textured materials. The ability to print full color, including white, makes it an excellent choice for complex, multi-color designs. Minimal setup work makes it a cost-effective solution for small runs or individual orders, with outstanding durability and flexibility.

 
- Cons: It has a unique hand, which for large continuous prints, feels like a thin, stretchy vinyl layer on the fabric, which may limit the garment's breathability. For printers, the upfront cost for DTF equipment can be significant, particularly for high-quality printers and inks.

 
- Best used for: Projects that require intricate, multi-color designs, especially in smaller quantities. Excellent when you need to print the same design on a wide variety of fabric types and other materials. Starting a print-on-demand business with low overhead by ordering pre-printed transfers to press at home or in your shop.

 

 

Understanding sublimation printing

Sublimation printing is a specialized print method that utilizes heat to transfer dye materials such as polyester and other synthetic fabrics or materials. This technique offers a range of unique advantages that make it distinct and highly valued in the printing industry.

 

How sublimation works

In the simplest terms, sublimation is a scientific process where a substance changes from a solid to a gas, without ever becoming a liquid. Dye sublimation printing harnesses this science with a specialized ink that can undergo this transformation.

The process involves printing designs onto special sublimation paper using sublimation ink. When heat pressed, the gaseous ink coats the polyester fibers or poly-coated surface. As it cools, it reverts to a solid state, essentially dyeing the fabric or material.

 

Pros and cons of sublimation

- Pros: The process yields high-definition, vibrant, full-color prints that are resistant to fading or cracking. Due to the nature of the ink's fusion with the material, the prints are exceptionally durable, sometimes outlasting the fabric they're printed on. Sublimation has the best "hand" of any printing technique. There is no raised surface, sublimation prints are as soft and smooth as the original texture of the material.

 
- Cons: The primary drawback is its limitation on polyester fabrics or poly-coated items. This factor narrows the range of applicable products. Also, sublimation prints do not show up well on dark or colored substrates, meaning it only works on light-colored (ideally white) materials. Print details  and edges are not as crisp compared to other heat transfer methods, because the nature of the process.

 
- Best used for: Full-color, photographic designs on light-colored polyester fabrics or poly-coated hard surfaces. It's a popular method for creating vibrant and long-lasting prints on a broad range of products, from apparel to ceramic mugs, mouse pads, key chains, and other promotional items.

 

 

What is all-over printing?

A unique feature of sublimation is its capacity to create 'all-over prints.' This refers to a continuous design that covers the entirety of a garment, even reaching over seams and edges. This is achieved with industrial-size printers and heat presses. Both sides of the garment are pressed at the same time. 

All-over printing has gained significant popularity, allowing designers to create immersive prints without spatial limitations. This capability has unlocked a world of creativity, making sublimation printing an alluring choice for those wanting standout designs.

 

 

Heat transfer vs. sublimation: Which is better?

Our exploration of heat transfer methods illuminated their flexibility and ability to create detailed, vivid prints. However, the print quality, hand feel, and durability are largely determined by the technique used and chosen materials. Dye sublimation stands out with its unmatched durability and color vibrancy. However, its potential is limited to light-colored, polyester materials or poly-coated items.

So, which is better? It comes down to your unique needs. Sublimation is the clear winner for vibrant, permanent designs on polyester or poly-coated items. And for "all over" prints, it stands alone. But if your project demands versatility across various materials, or you're working with a tighter budget or smaller scale, heat transfer techniques–particularly DTF–is the way to go.

As we conclude this match-up between heat transfer vs. sublimation, your journey in the world of heat transfer printing continues. Armed with the insights from this guide, you're equipped to make wise decisions. When it's time to bring your creative vision to life, Ninja Transfers is your trusted ally, providing top-quality DTF transfers to unleash your potential as a transfer ninja.

 

 

FAQs

To guide you further in your journey of choosing the right printing method, we've gathered and answered some of the most common queries about heat transfer and sublimation printing techniques.

 

What is a sublimation transfer?

A sublimation transfer refers to the process wherein a design, printed using sublimation ink onto specialized sublimation paper, gets transferred onto a substrate - either a polyester-based material or a poly-coated item. The application of heat transforms the ink into a gas, which then impregnates the substrate, culminating in a vibrant, lasting print that can cover the entire surface of the item.

 

What's the difference between sublimation and vinyl?

Sublimation and vinyl, specifically Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV), are distinct heat transfer printing techniques. Sublimation involves the transformation of ink into gas under heat, which then integrates into the fabric to render a vibrant, enduring print. It's perfect for detailed, multi-color designs on light-colored, polyester-based substrates. On the other hand, HTV requires cutting out designs from sheets of vinyl and adhering them to a material with heat. This method is ideal for creating bold, simple designs across a wide range of fabric types.

 

Can sublimation ink be used on heat transfer paper?

No, sublimation ink is specifically formulated for use in sublimation printing. It necessitates the use of sublimation paper or direct printing onto a polyester fabric or a poly-coated item. If you attempt to use sublimation ink on regular heat transfer paper, it could result in subpar outcomes and potentially harm your printer or heat press.

 

How long does heat transfer vinyl last?

Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) is generally durable and capable of lasting for around 50 washes or more with proper care. However, its lifespan can fluctuate depending on the vinyl's quality, the heat application's precision, and the care provided during the washing and drying processes. It's always advisable to adhere to the manufacturer's instructions to guarantee your HTV prints' maximum lifespan.