You were watching some videos last night and you got a bright idea of setting up a sublimation printing home business and starting selling fancy printed items online. But wait, did you do a proper research about the technique? Did you weigh down the pros and cons of sublimation printing?
It’s always better to look at both sides of a coin to know the reality behind it. I too rushed into this business and everything good and bad came in front of me after a few months.
I know this technique as somebody engaged in a sublimation printing business for the last eight years. Just like any printing method, even sublimation has its pros and cons.
In this post, I’ll share my experience and insights on the advantages and disadvantages of sublimation.
Let’s look at the factors that make sublimation unique and some roadblocks you might encounter along the way.
Advantages of Sublimation Printing
Let us explore the advantages that make it one of the best printing techniques:
Vibrant Lasting Colors
One of the most significant advantages of sublimation printing is its incredible color vibrancy and durability. Unlike other printing methods where the ink sits on the surface, sublimation ink fuses with the material. This results in colors that won’t fade, crack, or peel over time.
Versatility
Sublimation printing can be used on various materials, including polyester fabrics, ceramic, metal, and glass. This versatility opens up endless possibilities for creating personalized products. You can try printing on plain t-shirts, mugs, and phone cases.
High Level of Detailing
With sublimation printing, you can achieve intricate designs and photographic-quality images. The process allows for smooth color transitions and sharp details. This makes it perfect for creating high-quality, professional-looking products.
Low Setup Cost
The best part of sublimation printing is that anyone can set up a small setup at home—that’s how I started, too! Compared to screen printing, sublimation has really low setup costs. You don’t need to create separate screens or plates for each color or design, which can save you time and money in the long run.
Small Batch Friendly
If you are unsure how your final product may turn out, sublimation allows for producing small batches.
Disadvantages of Sublimation Printing
Let us look at some of the cons of the technique as well!
Limited Material Options
While sublimation printing is versatile, it does have some limitations regarding materials. For best results, you need to use polyester-coated or polyester-rich items. This can be restrictive if you want to print on 100% cotton or other natural fabrics.
Takes Time and Practice
Mastering the sublimation printing process takes time and practice. I had my fair share of ups and downs, and it took years of training to get today’s precision. You have to consider time, temperature, and pressure settings, which can affect the final result.
Sourcing Blanks
Finding the right blank items for sublimation can sometimes be a challenge. Not all products are suitable for sublimation. If you are in a location where the required blanks are not readily available, you might have to source specific items from specialized suppliers.
Color Limitations
While sublimation printing produces vibrant colors, it struggles with particular hues, particularly fluorescent or neon colors. If your designs rely heavily on these colors, you may need to consider alternative printing methods.
Final Thoughts
While there are some limitations and challenges, the advantages often outweigh the disadvantages. As I have been successful in overcoming the challenges, I would encourage everyone who wishes to try sublimation printing to do so at least once.
