When it comes to transferring designs onto various materials, two popular methods are heat press and sublimation.
4 Key Differences Explained
1. Applications and Materials
A heat press is a versatile machine that can transfer designs onto many different substrates, including fabrics, mugs, and plates.
Sublimation, on the other hand, is a specific printing method that works best with polyester garments and poly-coated substrates.
2. Explanation of Heat Press
A heat press is a machine designed to imprint designs onto different substrates by applying heat and pressure for a specific duration.
It uses a heated plate, known as a platen, which clamps down over the transfer and the substrate to adhere ink or vinyl graphics.
This method is more effective than using household irons because it provides consistent heat and pressure, which are crucial for high-quality results.
Heat presses can handle materials that require higher temperatures and pressures, making them ideal for professional applications.
3. Explanation of Sublimation
Sublimation is a method where specialized inks are printed onto paper as a transfer.
These transfers are then heat pressed onto polyester garments or poly-coated substrates.
The process involves a chemical sublimation where the ink turns into a gas, permeating the substrate and bonding with it permanently.
This method is particularly effective for designs with many colors and is often preferred when screen printing or embroidery is not suitable.
4. Comparison and Usage
While a heat press can be used for sublimation, it is not limited to this method.
It can also apply vinyl transfers and decorative patches, making it a versatile tool in the printing industry.
Sublimation, specifically, requires a heat press but is a specialized process that works best with certain materials like polyester and poly-coated surfaces.
The choice between using a heat press for sublimation or other methods depends on the material being printed on and the desired outcome.
Continue exploring, consult our experts
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