Why do I need Sublimation Paper?

Sublimation paper allows for the printing of disperse dye (sublimation ink). When dried, the paper can then pass through a heat press at roughly 400 degrees with synthetic fabrics to allow for sublimation (Sublimation is the process where a solid turns directly into gas, by-passing the liquid state). Sublimation paper allows you to get the best image clarity on fabric because the dot does not migrate as it would if it were printed directly onto polyester.

What kind of sublimation paper do I need?

There are basically two types of sublimation paper, with or without tack. Other people will go into more detail describing the differences in coatings but suffice it to say they all work reasonably well. With or without tack is a difference worth mentioning. If you're printing in the garment industry using a flat press it is recommended that you use a sublimation paper with tack. If you're printing roll to roll and transfering roll to roll it is not necessarily important that you use a tack sublimation paper (it's more expensive) though tack will still offer advantages to overall image detail. Tack paper adhears to the fabric while it is going through the press. This will yield slightly better line definition than a no tack paper. It is important to use a sublimation paper that is consistant in it's coating process. Beaver and Jetcol papers have proven themselves to be consistant and reliable. Other manufactures may not adhear to the same level of consistancy in their manufacturing processes. A quality paper, even if more expensive, will often save you a lot more money in the end as you will have less head strikes and use less ink to achieve color.

What inks should I use?

Any disperse dye sublimation ink will work on quality sublimation paper however you will have varying degrees of success. J-teck sublimation inks featuring advanced nanodot technology will perform better than its competitors because it will have less cockling and the inks will they will penetrate deeper into your fabric because the encapsulated pigments to disperse are smaller. Sawgrass Sublim, Manoukian, Sensient and others will still work reasonably well. Becuase we've seen the benefits and pitfalls of the sublimation inks in the market we have chosen to market the J-teck inks. J-Teck may not be the cheapest but it will save you the most money! You cannot beat J-Teck with Nanodot technology for runability nor can you beat Digitally-Driven for service!

What printer can I use?

Disperse Dye Sublimation Inks will work in any Piezo based printer such as Epson, Mimaki, Mutoh, and Roland. All of these printers use the Epson printheads. These printers use Micro Piezo Technology to produce some of the smallest dots in digital printing. Mimaki is probably the most widely used for such as their chip systems are easily bypassed. Roland makes some of the best equipment and Mutoh makes exellent equipment as well though internal parts seem to not last as long. Epson would be our primary pick as parts from Epson would be the cheapest and the Epson's were built for photographic quality. The chip systems however are difficult to bypass and as of June 2010 they do not have a 64" printer that we can recommend.

Do I need to profile?

You should always plan on profiling if you change dye sublimation heat transfer paper or dye sublimation inks. Correct color profiling will give you the best color by maximizing gamut and limiting ink consumption. We have been profiling dye sublimation products for 9 years, including glass, tile, fabrics, uniforms, and tradeshow exibit items. We will be happy to assist you in the profiling process on any RIP.