The Dye Sub Column


Here are the answers...


Question 1 answer: C) Cracking due to elasticity Tip: High spandex increases fabric stretch, making it prone to cracking or distortion. Use a lower heat setting, shorten the press time, and test on a small sample. Avoid placing designs on high- stretch areas like joints or seams.


Question 2 answer: A) Run a cleaning cycle with a special solution


Tip: Dried ink can clog channels, especially with intermittent use. Regular cleaning cycles with a dedicated solution keep ink flowing and protect the print head.


Question 3 answer: B) Outdated printer profile Tip: Even minor variations in ink batches affect output. Update your printer’s ICC profile regularly and use reliable colour management software, along with monitor calibration, to ensure on-screen and printed colours match.


Question 4 answer: B) It allows for sublimated designs on cotton garments and enables full colour, raised sublimated embroidery effects


Tip: To ensure the best results when sublimating into white polyester embroidery, allow a 50mm bleed around the design. This will help guarantee full coverage of the white embroidery and ensure the sublimation ink transfers evenly, providing a clean, vibrant design with no gaps or misalignment.


Question 5 answer: D) 200-220°C


Tip: The ideal temperature for sublimation on polyester is typically between 200-220°C. Adjust time and pressure based on the garment type and design size for the best results.


Question 6 answer: B) Incorrect temperature/ time Tip: Excessive heat or prolonged pressing can over-saturate the ink, leading to faded colours in large, solid areas. Adjust your settings to balance heat, pressure, and time, and ensure the sublimation paper isn’t absorbing too much ink.


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Question 7 answer: B) Requires a white underlay Tip: As sublimation inks are transparent, dark fabrics need a white base for the colours to appear vibrant. Use a white underlay or specially coated dark polyester to achieve a clear and crisp print.


Question 8 answer: C) High print resolution


Tip: While high resolution improves detail, it can slow down printing considerably. Lower the resolution for less detailed designs and ensure your printer has adequate memory for larger projects.


Question 9 answer: B) Pressing temperature mismatch Tip: Different substrates need specific temperature settings for optimal transfers. Always recalibrate your heat press when switching materials to avoid incomplete transfers or colour discrepancies.


Question 10 answer: A) Uneven print from insufficient pressure Tip: Thicker garments require higher pressure to ensure full contact. Pre-press to remove moisture and wrinkles, and adjust the press settings to apply even pressure across the design.


Check your scores! 0-4 correct answers: Sublimation newbie


You’re just getting started with sublimation! Focus on the basics – understanding substrates, heat press settings, and fabric compatibility. With practice, you’ll improve in no time. Keep learning and experimenting!


5-7 correct answers: Sublimation savvy


Nice work! You have a good grasp of sublimation principles, but there’s room to fine-tune your knowledge. Review areas like colour management, printer maintenance, and pressing techniques. You’re on the right track, so keep it up!


8-10 correct answers: Sublimation expert! Excellent! You’re a sublimation expert with a deep understanding of the process. You’ve mastered key concepts and troubleshooting techniques. To further enhance your skills, try exploring advanced methods and experimenting with new materials and techniques.


April 2025 | 63 |


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