Here’s a quick run-down of the differences between digital transfer printing and sublimation printing, answering the many questions we get from our customers on this subject.
First, when choosing the type of printing you should use, it largely depends on the items and materials you’re printing on:
– for materials such as cotton T-shirts or leather, it’s possible to use transfer printing;
– for ceramic objects, such as cups, or for polyester clothing, it’s necessary to use sublimation printing.
In both cases you’ll need a heat press to imprint the design onto the item.
Digital transfer printing is carried out using suitable paper sheets and a printer.
Laser printers are normally used, but there are some types of paper sheet available that can be used with inkjet printers, but these are rarely used.
Sublimation printing, on the other hand, requires special sublimation inks and an inkjet printer.