Summary

Introduction

Textile sublimation is a popular technique for printing colourful and durable designs on a variety of fabrics. If you are a professional new to this field, it is crucial to fully understand the equipment needed to succeed. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the information you need to get started in sublimation printing. We will also introduce you to the sublimation equipment available from DTF France, to help you choose the tools that are right for your needs.

1. What is Textile Sublimation?

Textile sublimation is a process in which the ink passes directly from a solid to a gaseous state, infiltrating the fibres of the fabric. This process requires the use of specific, high-quality materials to guarantee a clean, long-lasting print that is resistant to washing.

Advantages of textile sublimation:

  • Vibrant colours: Sublimation inks offer bright colours that do not fade easily.
  • Durability: The prints are resistant to wear and tear, frequent washing and rubbing.
  • Versatility: Sublimation is ideal for a wide range of textile products, from clothing to accessories.
  • Absence of relief: The ink binds to the fibres of the fabric, making the print completely smooth.

2. Printers for Textile Sublimation

The quality of sublimation printing depends largely on the printer used. As a beginner, it is important to choose a printer that suits your needs and your budget.

Types of printers for sublimation:

  • Dedicated sublimation printers: These printers are designed specifically for sublimation and offer optimal results.
  • Multipurpose printers: Some printers can be configured for sublimation, but require precise settings and the use of compatible inks.

Criteria for choosing a printer:

  • Print resolution: High resolution guarantees precise details, which is essential for complex designs.
  • Print speed: If you plan to produce large quantities, choose a fast printer.
  • Ink and paper compatibility: Make sure the printer is compatible with the sublimation inks and transfer papers you will be using.
  • Total cost of ownership: Include the costs of ink, paper and maintenance in your budget.

Sublimation inks available from DTF France: At DTF France, we offer a wide range of sublimation inks, available in packs or individually. Our inks are formulated to guarantee bright colours and optimal durability.

3. Heat Presses: Essential for Successful Sublimation

The heat press is essential for the textile sublimation process, allowing the printed image to be transferred from the transfer paper to the fabric by applying heat and pressure. It is also indispensable for printing on ceramic mugs, badges, and other accessories compatible with sublimation.

How a heat press works: The heat press applies high temperature and uniform pressure to the transfer paper, allowing the ink to turn into gas and penetrate the fibres of the fabric.

Types of heat presses:

  • Manual: Ideal for beginners and small productions, these presses require manual intervention to adjust the pressure and temperature.
  • Automatic: These presses offer fully automated settings, which can save you time and ensure uniform results.
  • Large format presses: Designed for printing on large surfaces, they are perfect for textiles such as flags or blankets.

Criteria for choosing a heat press:

  • Temperature and pressure: Both must be stable and uniform to guarantee consistent print quality.
  • Plate size: The size of the heat press plate must correspond to that of the textiles you wish to print on.
  • Ease of use: Simple and intuitive interfaces are preferable, especially for beginners.

Heat presses available from DTF France: DTF France offers a range of heat presses, suitable for beginners and experienced professionals alike. Our presses are reliable, easy to use and offer consistent results. Learn more about this machine with our guide to heat presses.

4. Transfer Papers for Sublimation

Transfer paper is an essential element in the sublimation process. It serves as a support for the ink before it is transferred to the fabric.

Types of transfer paper:

  • Paper for light fabrics: This type of paper is designed for light-coloured textiles and produces bright prints.
  • Paper for dark fabrics: Used for darker fabrics, it helps to ensure that colours remain vivid and opaque.
  • Special paper for specific textiles: Some papers are formulated for particular fabrics, such as polyester or cotton blends.
  • Universal sublimation papers or "multi-substrate sublimation papers". They are designed to work on a wider range of fabrics, including light and dark fabrics, while providing good adhesion of sublimation inks.

Tips for choosing the right paper:

  • Adaptation to the type of fabric: The paper must be compatible with the fabric to avoid printing defects.
  • Desired finish: The type of finish you want (matte or glossy) influences the choice of paper.

Transfer paper at DTF France: We offer a selection of transfer papers suitable for different types of fabrics and finishes. Our experts can advise you on the best paper for your projects.

5. Sublimation-Ready Textile Supports

The choice of textile support is decisive for the final result of sublimation printing. It is important to choose materials that are compatible with sublimation to ensure quality printing.

Types of roll fabrics for sublimation:

  • Velvet: Velvet offers a soft and luxurious texture, ideal for high-end products.
  • Burlington: A robust and versatile fabric, used for a variety of applications such as curtains, tablecloths, and others.
  • Satin: A silky and light fabric, used for the creation of clothing, costumes or fancy dress such as dresses, skirts and shirts.
  • Stain-resistant : A thin, resistant and water-repellent fabric, ideal for making tablecloths and cushion covers. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects.

Textile objects ready to be printed:

  • Yoga mats: Perfect for colourful and long-lasting prints, this medium is very popular in the field of sport and well-being.
  • Neck warmers: Used to protect the neck in winter, these accessories can be personalised for gifts or promotional items.
  • Mouse pads: An ideal medium for sharp prints, often used as promotional items.

Benefits of using quality media:

  • Optimal colour adhesion: High-quality fabrics absorb ink better, resulting in more vivid and long-lasting prints.
  • Increased durability: Products printed on high-quality materials are more resistant to wear and tear, increasing their lifespan.

Textile media at DTF France: DTF France offers a wide range of rolls of sublimation fabric and textile items ready for printing. Our products are specially selected for their sublimation compatibility and superior quality.

6. Cleaning and Maintenance Products

To guarantee the longevity and proper functioning of your equipment, regular maintenance is essential. This includes the cleaning of printers, heat presses, and other tools used for textile sublimation.

Essential cleaning products:

  • Print head cleaning sticks: Used to clean the print heads, they prevent blockages and maintain print quality.
  • Ink cleaning solutions: These solutions are specially formulated to dissolve ink residues without damaging the equipment.

Care instructions:

  • Regular cleaning: Clean your equipment after each production session to prevent the build-up of ink and dust.
  • Use of suitable products: Use cleaning products specifically designed for sublimation to avoid damaging your machines.

Maintenance products at DTF France: DTF France offers a selection of cleaning and maintenance products for your sublimation equipment. Our products are formulated to extend the life of your machines and maintain optimal print quality.

Textile sublimation is an exciting field offering many possibilities for printing professionals. To be successful, it is crucial to equip yourself with the right tools: a quality printer, a reliable heat press, suitable transfer paper, and quality textile substrates. As a beginner, you can count on DTF France to provide you with high-quality equipment, as well as personalised advice to help you get started in the world of sublimation printing.

Ready to get started with textile sublimation? Explore our online catalogue today and find everything you need to get started. Our experts are also available to guide you in choosing the equipment best suited to your projects. Start your sublimation adventure with DTF France!