STARTING OUT IN SUBLIMATION PRINTING

Sublimation is a low risk and low investment way to print full-colour designs across a huge range of blank printable items from mousepads and mugs to photo slate, keyrings, door mats and even blankets and towels! The majority of the personalisation industry uses sublimation in some form to create bespoke or unique orders for customers. 


So whether you are brand new to printing as a whole and are looking to start up a small business from scratch, an artist or designer that wants to take production into your own hands rather than out-sourcing it or even a veteran printing expert but just want to expand into sublimation we have everything you need to get started and the biggest range of sublimation blanks available in the UK!

WHAT IS SUBLIMATION PRINTING?

Sublimation printing is a revolutionary technique that can transform any design into a stunning and vibrant print on a wide range of surfaces, from fabrics to ceramics and even metals.


The process involves printing your design onto a special transfer paper using sublimation ink, which is then transferred onto the final product using heat and pressure. The result is a permanent and high-quality print that won't fade or crack over time. Because the ink is infused into the surface rather than sitting on top, the finished product will have a soft, smooth finish that looks and feels amazing.


Sublimation printing is perfect for creating custom products such as t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and much more. It's also great for businesses looking to create promotional materials or branded merchandise, as the technique allows for full-color printing with incredible detail and accuracy.


Whether you're looking to create one-of-a-kind products for your business, or simply want to add a personal touch to your own belongings, sublimation printing is the way to go. With its superior quality and durability, your designs will look amazing for years to come.

WHAT DO I NEED TO GET STARTED?
To do sublimation printing, you'll need a few key pieces of equipment:

  1. Sublimation Printer:You will need a printer that uses sublimation ink cartridges. These printers are specially designed to handle the sublimation process, so it's important to use the correct type of printer.

  2. Sublimation Ink:Sublimation ink is a special type of ink that is used in the printing process. It is designed to turn into a gas when heated and transfer onto the final product.

  3. Transfer Paper:You'll need special transfer paper designed for sublimation printing. This paper is designed to hold the sublimation ink and release it onto the final product when heated.

  4. Heat Press:A heat press is a machine that applies heat and pressure to the transfer paper and the final product. This is what activates the sublimation process and transfers the design onto the product.

  5. Sublimation Blanks: Sublimation blanks are the products that you will be printing your design onto. These can include t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and much more.

  6. Design Software: You will need design software such as Adobe PhotoShop or CorelDRAW to create your designs before printing.

  7. Protective Equipment:It is important to use protective equipment such as heat-resistant gloves when handling sublimation ink and transfer paper, as they can be harmful if ingested or inhaled.

HOW WE CAN HELP YOU?
We are one of the UK's largest dye sublimation supplies wholesalers and specialise in stocking both the equipment and consumables for sublimation printing as well as the printable blanks. We pride ourselves on having not just a huge range of different items but also keeping large stocks of popular items so you never have to worry about saying 'no' to your customer.

Our service doesn't stop as soon as you buy the items from us - we are there every step of the way with you so if you have questions on how to print onto something, need advice on getting the right equipment for your requirements or just need some inspiration then drop our team a line at info@longforte.com and we'll be happy to help!

Click the links above to explore how we can supply everything you need.