Sublimation

Yes, a specialized sublimation printer is required. This is because the composition of sublimation ink differs significantly from regular inkjet ink, demanding a printhead that operates without heat to prevent clogging.

Crucially: Dedicated color management software is necessary. Since the print on paper is pale and the colors only transform under heat, the printer, ink, and color management must be perfectly synchronized to achieve accurate final colors.

Not directly. Sublimation pigments only bond with polyester fibers; heat turns the pigments into gas, allowing them to penetrate the polyester.

* Solutions for Cotton: You must sublimate onto a white polyester-based layer (such as Sublimation Flex or Sublimation Flock) and then transfer that layer onto the cotton.
* Sawgrass VersiFlex: This specific system allows for direct printing onto white cotton, but it requires a special VersiFlex ink set and an expander cartridge.

The Sawgrass Print Utility is essential for accurate color management. It ensures that the pale print on the sublimation paper contains the correct color data so that it transforms into the final, vibrant colors once transferred onto the polyester product using the heat press. It controls the entire color transformation process.

This is perfectly normal. Sublimation pigments are much lighter in their solid form (on paper). They only become activated and transform into their final, brilliant colors once subjected to the high heat and pressure of the transfer process onto the polyester substrate.

Not directly. Sublimation pigments always require a white or very light-colored background to display optimal color vibrancy. Solutions include:

* Using products that already have a white panel or a dedicated white polyester-coated patch (e.g., metal blanks).
* Sublimating onto a white Sublimation Flex or Sublimation Flock layer, which is then pressed onto the dark item.

This depends entirely on the application. Sublimation offers beautiful, durable results with a soft hand-feel but is limited to polyester and light-colored products. Toner-based Transfer Paper offers greater flexibility and can be applied to virtually all colors and materials. Consult our “Printing Technologies” article for a detailed comparison.

* Ghosting (Blurring): This occurs due to movement of the transfer paper relative to the product during the pressing process (e.g., when closing or opening the press). Prevent this by securely affixing the transfer to the product using heat-resistant tape.
* Smudges/Blurring along Edges: This may indicate ‘BlowOuts.’ Use a BlowOut sheet (often called an outgassing sheet) to prevent these fuzzy edges.

The printer must always be left on (in sleep mode) to prevent printhead clogging. In sleep mode, the printer periodically sprays a tiny amount of ink to keep the nozzles clear, which ultimately saves ink compared to performing head cleanings for a fully clogged unit.
Disabling Sawgrass Automatic Shutdown: Due to EU regulations, new Sawgrass printers may auto-shutoff, which is undesirable for sublimation. Disable this via the printer menu: Menu > System Settings > Admin. Tools > Main power off network disc. > Off

Yes. When sublimating, using two Teflon sheets (one above and one below the product) is essential. The sheets block any residual pigment or excess gas from previous transfers, preventing them from contaminating your current product or staining the press platens.