Sublimation vinyl is a type of vinyl designed to receive sublimation inks and then be heat-pressed onto various surfaces, particularly those that are not typically compatible with direct sublimation.
While the term might seem self-explanatory, understanding its function requires differentiating it from heat transfer vinyl (HTV) and traditional sublimation processes. Here's a breakdown:
Understanding Sublimation vs. Direct Sublimation
Traditionally, sublimation involves printing a design with special sublimation inks onto sublimation paper. This paper is then heat-pressed onto a polyester or polymer-coated substrate (like a mug, polyester fabric, or phone case). The heat converts the solid ink into a gas, which penetrates the substrate's surface, creating a permanent bond. Direct sublimation requires a compatible substrate – typically light-colored polyester or a polymer-coated surface.
The Role of Sublimation Vinyl
Sublimation vinyl bridges the gap when you want to sublimate onto materials that are not naturally suitable for direct sublimation, such as:
- Dark-colored fabrics: Direct sublimation won't show up well on dark materials.
- Cotton fabrics: Sublimation ink won't bond to cotton fibers.
- Hard surfaces without a polymer coating: Many items lack the necessary coating for direct sublimation.
Sublimation vinyl acts as an intermediary. You sublimate your design onto the vinyl first. Then, you heat-press the sublimated vinyl onto your desired object. In essence, you're creating a printable "patch" with your design.
Key Features of Sublimation Vinyl:
- Special Coating: Sublimation vinyl has a special coating that allows the sublimation ink to bond to its surface during the sublimation process.
- Adhesive Backing: It typically has an adhesive backing to allow easy placement and heat pressing onto the final surface.
- Variety of Finishes: Sublimation vinyl comes in various finishes, such as matte, glossy, and glitter.
- Cuttable: It can be cut with a vinyl cutter, allowing you to create intricate designs and shapes.
How to Use Sublimation Vinyl:
- Design and Print: Create your design and print it in reverse (mirrored) onto sublimation paper using sublimation inks.
- Cut the Vinyl (Optional): If desired, use a vinyl cutter to cut the sublimation vinyl into the shape of your design or a specific shape to contain your design.
- Sublimate onto the Vinyl: Place the printed sublimation paper face down onto the sublimation vinyl and heat press according to the vinyl manufacturer's instructions (temperature, time, and pressure).
- Weed the Vinyl (If applicable): Remove any excess vinyl around your design if you cut it.
- Apply to the Final Surface: Heat press the sublimated vinyl onto your final substrate (e.g., a cotton t-shirt, a dark-colored bag) according to the vinyl manufacturer's instructions.
Advantages of Using Sublimation Vinyl:
- Wider Range of Substrates: Allows you to sublimate onto cotton, dark fabrics, and other materials not suitable for direct sublimation.
- Adds Texture and Dimension: Can add a unique texture or dimension to your design, depending on the type of vinyl used.
Disadvantages of Using Sublimation Vinyl:
- Added Step: It adds an extra step to the sublimation process compared to direct sublimation.
- Feel on Fabric: The vinyl can create a "feel" on the fabric that isn't present with direct sublimation, which becomes part of the fabric itself. Direct sublimation is generally softer.
- Potential for Peeling: If not applied correctly, the vinyl may peel off the substrate over time (although quality vinyl and proper application minimize this).
In conclusion, sublimation vinyl is a versatile tool that expands the possibilities of sublimation by enabling you to transfer designs onto a wider variety of materials, even those that wouldn't typically work with the traditional sublimation process.
