Dye sublimation is a stunning printing process that is used in the production of fabric banners, trade show displays, visual merchandising and other creative graphic products. It involves a two step process of printing an image onto transfer paper, which is entered into a large heat press with plain polyester poplin fabric. Under conditions of 375 degrees, the chemical bonding of the ink on the transfer paper with the fabric produces images that are distinctly superior to other printing methods. The dye sublimation process imparts a continuous flow of color rather than individual dots or pixels that typify inkjet printers.
Like vinyl banners or mesh banners, Gamma’s 9oz cloth banners and fabric displays will not fade or wash out when displayed indoors, away from direct sunlight. They are not recommended as outdoor banners, however, because of their sensitivity to weather elements. Other polyester products, such as our retractable banners, table top displays, banner flags and table runners are also printed on our Vutek TX3250. which enables us to print up to 10′ wide by any length.
Shown here are two dye sublimation projects recently printed at Gamma – the (2) double sided Night Drop banners, measuring 4’w x 16′ and 4’w x 14′, respectively, produced for the Michigan State Police convention and the 60” table throw printed for Posh Nosh, used at the food fair at Chicago’s Merchandise Mart.
Fabric Banner Tips
Cleaning: To care for your fabric banner, regular cleanings are recommended.
Fabric banners can be machine washed in cold water on a gentle cycle. They should be laid flat or hung to dry. Use a hand steamer to get rid of wrinkles or creases. Do not bleach, tumble dry or iron.
Installation: cloth banners are incredibly versatile and can be installed using several methods. Use cords, string or bungees to attach the corner grommets to a fixed object, such as poles. They can also be installed to a firm background with the use of screws and washers. Pole pockets add sophistication and make them easily usable in displays or booths.
Printing double sided: a double sided cloth banner material called Night Drop prints well using the dye sublimation method.
Removing wrinkles: after shipping and storage, trade show displays have a tendency to wrinkle or crease. Once tightly stretched on the display hardware, they will disappear. To quickly remove remove them a hand steamer is recommended.