Towel Sublimation: How Do We Do It?
Obviously, we all know that our custom towels aren’t just plush and comfortable. They’re also dazzling works of art! Basically, our sublimated towels are embroidered with any image of your choice. That’s right – any logo, photo, or even landscape image can go directly onto a plush and absorbent towel. Imagine the possibilities!
Have you ever asked yourself how we get the image of your school or stadium onto our custom towels? We embroider the images onto the towels with a highly advanced printing method called sublimation. Below, we’ve put together a thorough guide to the sublimation and process and explain how we create these glorious, custom and comfortable works of art.
What Is Sublimation?
Sublimation is the process of solids turning into gasses, while skipping the liquid stage. Imagine the surface of ice turning into fog or steam without melting. Essentially, that’s equivalent to the process of sublimation.
Dye sublimation is the process of dyeing an image directly into fabric. In the case of Team Towels, the fabric is your custom team towel!
How do We Print Your Custom Image?
The sublimation printing process is almost the same process you’d use to print anything at work or home. The only difference is what we use. At Team Towels, we use sublimation paper to print the image that will promote your team every season!
Sublimation paper is has a very unique coating and texture. Basically, unlike regular paper, it doesn’t absorb the ink. Consequently, we use dye sublimation ink instead of regular ink. This is critical in transferring ink onto the towel’s surface.
The Heat Is On!
Next, directly after printing, we place the sublimation paper onto the towel. Obviously, the sublimation paper and towel must have a very precise alignment in order to properly transfer the image. Then, we apply heat and pressure to the paper and towel using an ultra-hot commercial heat press. This pressing causes the ink to sublimate – or become a gas. Essentially, the pressure allows the ink to absorb directly into the fibers of the towel.
After the completion of the heating cycle, the towel must cool off. Basically, the image on the paper is now on the towel and it’s been reformed. So if you were to touch one of these towels after the sublimation process, no ink would run off.
What Does This Mean To You?
Essentially, this most of all means: longevity. The sublimation process actually dyes each individual fiber of your towel. We’re not just adding a layer of ink on top of it.
Basically, this method prevents any cracking, flaking or peeling. In addition to being stunning, your new towel will be incredibly durable, offering your team years of unity, spirit and memories. Additionally, you’ll have dazzling towels that will remain colorful, plush and vibrant!
Conclusion
Team Towels is proud to be your top choice for custom towels. If you want to create a sublimated towel for your athletes, class, or family, we would be happy to be on your team. There are countless unique uses for custom towels. They can make incredible gifts for several occasions – from graduations to homecoming!
