What is Dye Sublimation Printing
 

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The basic inkjet dye sublimation process uses a heat sensitive sublimation dye, dissolved in a liquid, to print graphics and text onto special inkjet paper. This is called a dye sub transfer. The dye sub transfer and a sublimatable item are then placed into a heat press.

When the heating cycle is completed, the image on the paper has been transferred into the coating on the item and has actually become a part of the surface. Run your finger across the surface of sublimation and you will feel nothing.

Our MarkaSteel boards have a proprietary dry erase paint that is dye sublimatable.

In this case the sublimation dye actually penetrates the paint becomes part of the paint.    The surface remains flat which is ideal for both dry erase use and our DaPlus film application!

The reason for this is that sublimation is always done on a polyester, polymer, or polymer coated item. At high temperatures, the solid dyes in the print converts into a gas without ever becoming a liquid. The high temperature also opens the pores of the polymer and allows the gas to enter. When the item is removed from the heat press, the temperature drops, the pores close and the gas reverts to a solid state. It has now become a part of the polymer. The colors cannot be washed out or come off, unless the actual coating is damaged by heavy abrasion.

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Lines, Bleed and Positioning in Die Sub