Sublimation printing on mugs and T-shirts

In sublimation printing, heat carries the ink into the surface of the item, so the full-colour print doesn't crack, peel or fade. We use it on mugs, T-shirts, mouse pads, puzzles and lens cloths - on items made of polyester or with a special coating.

Sublimation printing a logo onto a mug

How sublimation works

Sublimation printing uses heat to transfer the ink straight into the surface of the item. The ink becomes part of the material, so it won't peel or fade over time.

We most often use this on mugs, t-shirts, puzzles, mouse pads, eyeglass cleaning cloths and similar items. These items need to be made of polyester or have a special printing coating.

When sublimation is the right choice

  • Full-colour designs

    Photos, gradients and colourful designs come out true, with no limit on the number of colours.

  • Mugs

    White mugs with a sublimation coating - the design can wrap around the whole mug.

  • Sports and promo shirts

    On polyester the ink goes into the fibres, so the shirt stays soft and breathable.

Limits

  • Polyester or coating only

    The ink doesn't bond to cotton. For cotton T-shirts and hoodies we suggest embroidery.

  • White or light surface

    Sublimation ink is transparent, so it doesn't show on dark items. That's why it's done on white and light items.

Frequently asked questions

How does sublimation printing work?

Heat transfers the ink straight into the item's surface, so the ink becomes part of the material and won't peel off.

Can sublimation printing be done on any material?

No. The item needs to be made of polyester or have a special printing coating.

What items is sublimation printing most commonly used on?

Mugs, t-shirts, puzzles, mouse pads and eyeglass cleaning cloths.

How much does sublimation printing on mugs cost?

It depends on the item, quantity, design size and number of positions. Where available, the product page shows an indicative price with basic branding; the exact price for your quantity comes with your offer.

Can you sublimate a cotton T-shirt?

No. Sublimation ink only bonds to polyester and special coatings. For cotton T-shirts we suggest embroidery.

Can you sublimate a black T-shirt?

No. The ink is transparent and doesn't show on a dark background, so sublimation is done on white and light items.

Can sublimation reproduce a photo?

Yes. Sublimation prints in full colour, so it reproduces photos, gradients and colourful designs faithfully.

Not sure which technique you need?

Send us the item and your logo - we'll suggest the technique that will look best and last the longest.

Laser Print, Dr Agostina Neta 16a (blok 70a), Novi Beograd

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