Dye sublimation is one process I utilize to create several shop products that feature my original photography.
What is it?
Dye sublimation involves specialized inks, converted or dedicated printer and specialized paper to permanently bond an image to a suitable substrate with heat and pressure, creating a vibrant and durable result.
How do I do it?
I first choose the image from my portfolio. Once chosen i will then edit in elements followed by corel draw to add text or any other elements. I usually create templates of the blanks to allow for ease of editing for size, shape etc for that specific keychain, bookmark, journal, or wind spinner or whatever else I plan on making.
Once I have my print ready, i then take it and the sublimation blank or appropriate substrate to the heat press that has been preheated to 385-400*f and adjusted for pressure for that specific item. Using heat tape I adhere the image to the blank and press anywhere from 40 seconds to 1 minute depending upon item. Once it has been thru this process those muted colors are now vibrant and permanent...and HOT literally!
What substrates do I use?
Depending upon the project it can be glass, clear cast acrylic, whiteboard, light colored wood, tin/metal and traditional premade sublimation blanks. I do not use fabrics beyond rarely but cotton needs special treatment and polyester is the fabric of choice again, in light colors if you're not doing other steps to keep colors true to image. Lots of people do tumblers etc, it's just not in my wheelhouse.
Considerations?
There are no whites in sublimation therefore everything that is white in the photo will take on the color of the substrate. Most premade substrates have a white coating on them to overcome this, but sometimes it is desirable to let the background show thru, for instance on metal tins, this can give a metallic and different look to the piece. I made some magnets of my photographs on pine and used the grain of the wood to enhance the image and give added texture and visual appeal. It's all about what the look is you're trying to achieve with your sublimation print. Half the fun is adapting image, substrate to get what you want and sometimes getting something completely unexpected, it's your chance to be creative and enjoy the process.
What equipment do I use?
I personally use an Epson Eco tank 2800 that was purchased new and NO regular ink was ever put in it, only sublimation inks~ this does void the warranty~
HIIPOO sublimation inks
A-Sub printer paper
Generic OLD t shirt press with butcher paper in-between each layer for ink bleed
Heat tape and heat resistant gloves! items coming off the tshirt press are HOT off the press...literally!
Do your own due diligence and research. This is all just my personal experience and general information with what has worked for me. Happy Printing!