How long do sublimation shirts last?
James Craig
Published Jan 24, 2026
We have pressed transfers up to 14 months after being printed and the results were perfect. It's worth noting that we use high quality sublimation paper and we store our prints in a dry, cool, dark environment.
How long can sublimation prints last?
Surprisingly, once a sublimation transfer is printed, it will last indefinitely until it is pressed. Keep the transfer in a file folder away from dust and humidity.
Does sublimation wash out?
In the process, the heat opens the pores of the fabric and applies pressure to cool down the ink and return to the solid form. It results in a permanent, full color image which does not fade, peel, or washes away. Sublimation printing is growing rapidly and is a preferred method for small batch orders.
Do sublimation shirts last?
If you want a high-quality, long-lasting t-shirt design, you may want to try sublimation printing! This printing process uses a special dye that can turn into a gas and then bond with polyester fabric when exposed to high heat.
Are sublimation shirts good?
Benefits of Sublimation Printing
But the process can be cost-effective, depending on what type of shirts you are making. If you are doing small runs and frequently changing designs, sublimation may be the most efficient method. Sublimation reigns supreme when it comes to creating detailed multi-color designs, too.
44 related questions foundCan you use a Cricut for sublimation?
You'll be able to use your Cricut to cut out all your favorite designs and patterns, prepare them for sublimation printing, and knock out the whole project – from start to finish – faster than you ever thought possible, all from the comfort of your own home.
Is sublimation better than vinyl?
Sublimation printing has a bit higher start-up cost when compared to heat transfer vinyl, but maybe a better option based on final results. To get started with sublimation printing you will need a sublimation printer, sublimation paper, heat press machine and blank apparel where our design will be transferred.
Why are my sublimation prints dull?
It's absolutely normal for sublimation ink to look dull when it's first printed. Once the print is sublimated onto the substrate with high heat and pressure, the ink converts to a gas and infuses into the polyester material and the colors will become bold, bright, and vibrant.
Why are my sublimation shirts fading?
Sublimation prints easily fade in the direct exposure of sunlight due to ultraviolet radiation. It has nothing to do with the sublimation paper and ink. The primary reason is long-term exposure to print under direct sunlight. It fades the sublimation print faster.
Why did my sublimation shirt fade after washing?
The sublimation inks you are using are often not made from the highest quality material. This means that after being washed. The print is likely to fade because it is no longer protected by a durable coating.
How many times can you use a sublimation transfer?
10. Can thermal transfer paper be reused? You can't reuse your thermal transfer paper, whichever type you use. Although with sublimation paper, you may find that there is some ink remaining on the paper, it will not be enough to make a good-quality print.
Should I wash my shirts before sublimation?
*Lint roll the shirt to remove any debris that could be present as this can interfere with the sublimation design adhesion and also cause blue looking dots to appear after pressing and they do not wash out so this step is very important!
Will sublimation wash out of 100 cotton?
Did you know you can sublimate on 100% cotton? You can! I used this basic white 100% cotton sweatshirt to create this super cute, vibrant sweatshirt using my SG1000 sublimation printer, and my 15 x 15 heat press. Look how vibrant it turned out!
Is sublimation printing permanent?
The sublimation printing process
The inks that are used turn into gas when brought under heat, then combine with the fabric and permanently print onto the fabric. The effects are permanent and less prone to fading, as the ink is embedded in the fabric or substrate rather than simply laying on top like a normal print.
Which is better heat transfer or sublimation?
If your business focuses or mainly focuses in white and light-color polyester apparel, sublimation is a great option. Your prints will have the lightest hand and great durability and washability. However, if you want to print on any color or material type, heat transfer paper will be your best bet.
Can sublimation be used more than once?
If you are sublimating you will find that you are able to reuse your sublimation transfer at least twice!
What shirt is best for sublimation?
The best shirts to use for sublimation printing are 100% polyester. This type of printing requires the type of chemical bond that it can only make with the polymers inside polyester fibers. There are a lot of advantages to using 100% polyester shirts.
How do you wash sublimated clothes?
Washing:
- Wash uniform inside out to aid in damage prevention from other items in load.
- Wash colored and white garments separately.
- Use cold/warm water.
- Use a mild soap or detergent.
- Remove garments from washer promptly.
Why does my black sublimation ink print Brown?
If you are normally printing at 180 degrees for 8 minutes and your black is turning brown, there may be a chance that it is over heated. After printing is done if the sublimation phone cover is heated extra the black colour starts fading away and changes into brown.
How do I make sublimation shirts brighter?
Try using a higher heat setting on your printer. This will cause the dyes to sublimate more completely, resulting in brighter prints. Heat press. Use a heat press with even pressure to ensure good results.
How do I stop my sublimation from fading?
Ghosting occurs when the sublimation transfer paper shifts during the sublimation process, such as when you open or close your heat press. For this reason, it is recommended that you tape down your hard substrates to the sublimation paper using thermal tape.
Why does my sublimation paper stick to my tumbler?
The paper sticks to my mugs.
This problem occurs due to softening of the coating when the mug is heated during the transfer process. To reduced the effects of the softened coating, remove the paper from the mug before cooling.
Is it cheaper to do sublimation or vinyl?
You will get the best results when printing on black and other dark-colored materials. The equipment and consumables needed for vinyl printing cost far less than sublimation.
Can you do sublimation on dark shirts?
The process to sublimate on dark t shirts is the same as the process to sublimate on cotton shirts that are other colors - including white. You don't actually sublimate directly on the shirt - but instead either a sublimation vinyl like EasySubli or glitter white heat transfer vinyl.
Is a sublimation printer worth it?
Sublimation printing is outstanding for fine lines and details, and arguably one of the best methods for all-over printing. With low set up costs, it is great for small runs, and the printing is so close to permanent it's pretty much unbeatable.