The Dye Sub Column


Why sublimation isn’t just for polyester: Expanding beyond apparel


Anuj Ghaghada, director at Longforte, explains why you should broaden your horizons and look at options beyond clothing when it comes to sublimation printing


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hen people first hear about sublimation printing, their minds often jump to polyester T shirts.


And it’s true – sublimation excels on polyester fabrics, producing bright, vibrant prints that become part of the material itself. But stopping at apparel means missing out on a huge range of creative and commercial opportunities. Sublimation isn’t just for clothing. In fact, some of the most profitable and eye-catching sublimation products aren’t wearable at all. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to grow your range, it’s worth exploring what else sublimation can offer.


The science unlocks the possibilities


At its core, sublimation is a chemical process. When you apply heat and pressure to sublimation ink, it turns into a gas and bonds with polyester or polymer-coated surfaces. That’s why it won’t work on cotton or uncoated ceramics – there’s nothing for the dye to bond to. But once you understand that, the possibilities are wide open.


You’re not limited to fabrics. Anything with a polyester or polymer coating is fair game – and these days, that includes hundreds of ready-made blank products designed specifically for sublimation.


Drinkware, homeware, and more


One of the most popular categories we see outside of apparel is drinkware. Sublimation mugs are a staple in the industry for good reason – they’re affordable, easy to produce, and always in demand. From classic 11oz mugs to travel tumblers, bowling water bottles, and enamel cups, the range is constantly growing.


But drinkware is just the beginning. Home décor is another fast-growing market. Think photo slates, bar runners, cushion covers, glass clocks, coasters, and even holiday ornaments. These items make ideal gifts and are especially popular around holidays and special occasions.


Then there’s the promotional sector. Keyrings, mouse pads, phone stands, badges, and bottle openers are all easy to personalise with sublimation. They’re perfect for businesses looking for branded merchandise, or creators offering bespoke designs.


www.printwearandpromotion.co.uk


A profitable path for small businesses Many newcomers or those adding sublimation to their print setup start with clothing because it feels familiar. But apparel often comes with having to stock multiple sizes, keeping up with current trends and taking up larger volume in your workshop. By contrast, items like mugs or slates don’t go out of style, are easy to store and can often attract higher margins. For example, a personalised photo rock slate or printed aluminium panel may only cost a few pounds to make but can sell for a significantly higher price – especially in markets like weddings, memorials, or pet photography. These niches are often under-served and can be deeply rewarding, both financially and personally.


The learning curve is the same


If you’re already sublimating onto fabric, moving into hard substrates is easier than you might think. The core principles are the same – good artwork, the right temperature, time, and pressure, and a well-calibrated heat press. Some products may need specific attachments (like mug presses or jigs), but there’s no major new learning curve.


Plus, experimenting with different items is a great way to keep your business fresh and discover new customer bases. We’ve seen many people transition from one product into multiple lines as they see the ease of applying the same production process to more items.


Final thoughts


Sublimation is an incredibly versatile process. While polyester clothing might be where many people start, it’s certainly not where it has to end. With a little curiosity and experimentation, you can unlock a whole world of products – and possibly uncover some unexpected favourites along the way.


So, the next time someone says sublimation is just for T shirts, you’ll know better. It’s for mugs, slates, puzzles, signs, cushions, and so much more. And most importantly, it’s for people who want to create and customise in a way that feels personal, professional, and full of possibility.


June 2025 | 57 |


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