The heat press machine is a crucial component in the process of sublimation printing. It uses special types of ink that are designed to penetrate deep into fabrics, unlike regular heat transfers which only adhere to the surface.
These special inks, known as sublimation ink or thermochromic ink, are made up of a mixture of pigments and polymers. When heated to a specific temperature, the polymer chains absorb the heat energy and change their molecular structure.
Unlike regular heat transfers which only bind to the surface of the fabric, sublimation ink penetrates deep into the material. This allows for intricate designs and patterns to be created on a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, and even vinyl.
The use of sublimation ink also makes it easier to remove the heat press transfers from fabrics. Simply place the fabric in the ironing chamber, and the heat will melt the ink, allowing you to easily remove the transfer without damaging the fabric.