Sublimation transfer printing also known as dye sublimation printing or thermal transfer printing . Sublimation transfer printing is made from special sublimation dyes that penetrate synthetic materials like polyester when you apply heat and pressure . During the transfer printing process , the dye heats up and turns into a gas that bonds with the synthetic portion of the fabric . No other decorating process can beat sublimation for the brilliance of color and durability . Beacuse the sublimation process dyes the fibers of a garment , instead of putting a layer of inks on top of the fabric . The image cannot crack , peel , or wear off . Sublimation offset ink , Sublimation transfer ink for offset printing