What is sublimation printing?

From Wikipedia:
“A dye-sublimation printer is a computer printer which uses heat to transfer dye onto materials such as a plastic, card, paper, or fabric. The sublimation name was first applied because the dye was considered to make the transition between the solid and gas states without going through a liquid stage.”

In practical terms, sublimated garments are ones that are made out of 100% polyester and are typically printed as panels and then sewn together. So all sorts of awesome design and garment looks are possible. Things that are impossible for normal screen printing to achieve are easily done with sublimation. Big all over prints, no problems. Prints that wrap around a sleeve, a walk in the park. Your imagination is really the only limit.

How long does it take?

It takes 6-8 weeks from when artwork is signed off, payment is made and sizes are received till when you receive the garments. Allow extra time around Chinese New Year.

Where is it made?

We have a partner factory based in China that produces all of our clothing.

What is the quality like?

Fantastic, our partner in China has a climate controlled factory which is state of the art.

What are the costs?

Check out our pricing page or touch base with us here and we’ll sort out pricing for you. But as a rule the costs are good if your quantity is reasonable and you have a lot of prints. With sublimation printing, the amount of designs and colours on your designs have no impact on price, only the quantity and garment type you are after.

Can I use an existing design I have?

Yes.

Can you design it for me?

Yes, we offer graphic design services at $40+GST per hour if needed.

What format do I need to supply artwork in?

Ideally we’d like artwork should be supplied in a vector format like AI, EPS or PDF. This is to make sure the detail in the design is not lost and to give you a high quality finish. If this is beyond your art capabilities then a hi resolution image file or PSD may work out ok. We’ll need to see the artwork first before confirming.

How do I pay?

We take payment in advance and in full before we start any project. We currently accept Bank Transfer, Cash, Cheque (though we have to wait for it to clear) and credit card via PayPal (who charge a 3.6% fee for the use of the service).

How do I work out the sizes I need?

We can provide you with sizing charts for each respective garment you require. Also if need be you can come in to see us and try on a garment or we can send you out a sample, but samples are limited and we do ask for a deposit as the garment samples are not cheap.

Where in NZ are you based?

Belmont, on Auckland’s North Shore. Contact us if you’d like to come and visit and we can setup a meeting time.

Why choose sublimation printing over screen printing?

We also provide screen printing services and this method has it’s benefits and place when it comes to garment customisation.

However, if you are wanting a light weight finish, a large number of prints/colours or an all over print then sublimation is definitely the way to go.

How do returns work?

We have a robust sign off process covering the end to end process including, but not limited to, garment sizes, artwork quality, PMS Pantone colours, design mockups and time frames.

Check out Terms of Trade for more detailed information, but essentially custom orders are produced off shore and are final and cannot be returned.

If something on your order differs from what was signed off, then we would need you to get in touch ASAP:

“All claims for damage or adjustments for short or incorrect delivery are to be made by the Buyer in writing within seven (7) days of receipt of the goods. The Seller will accept no claims after fourteen (14) days of receipt of the goods.”

How do I check my progress?

The communication lines between our customers and us are always open. Contact us for an update.

How is my privacy protected?

We will never disclose your personal information to anyone.

What is your copyright policy?

We will never breach any copyright laws and we will not print logos that you don’t own the copyright for.