The Difference Between Dye Sublimation and Digital Printing

As technology advances so does our ability to creatively transfer digital images onto a wide variety of materials. Both digital printing and dye sublimation on metal  are extremely desirable ways to print your photos. However, each process has its own advantages, depending on the effect you want and how durable the finished product must be. Understanding the difference between dye sublimation and digital printing helps you showcase your photos or designs.

Definitions 

Digital printing on metal refers to methods of printing from a digital-based image directly onto a panel. People call this flat bed printing. Digital printing has revolutionised photo printing, because you can retouch and color correct a photograph before printing. On metal, we print the photo on top of the panel. With acrylic, however, we print under the panel, and the image comes through the front. Digital printing on metal requires files of at least 150 dpi. If you need many prints, digital printing is also faster than sublimation.

During the dye sublimation process, we first print an image onto a sheet of transfer paper. Then we lay it on a specialised, pre-treated piece of metal. We place the metal into our sublimation printer, which heats the transfer paper to the perfect temperature. This unique process turns the image on the transfer paper directly into a gas, which then solidifies into the treated metal. Because there are many steps in production, everything must go right to create a masterpiece. Dye sublimation prints are also weather proof.

Difference between Dye Sublimation and Digital Printing 

Longevity:

In Dye Sublimation printing the aluminium surface absorbs the inks directly. This makes for a long lasting and durable product that can withstand UV light.  If you are not a fan of glossy then Dye sublimation prints may not be for you. The standard dye sublimation panel is thin. So for a long life, you need a solid substrate.

We offer digital printing on metal on both white and aluminium surfaces. The white metal has fantastic colour contrast whereas the brushed metal offers a matted effect. We print both styles on dibond panels, which have a rigid polyester core. As a result, they need no added substrate for structure. Panels and print also withstand UV light and harsh climates.

Customisation 

Any polymer-coated surface is optimal for dye sublimation printing. This includes aluminium, wood, and plastics. The difference between dye sublimation and digital printing is where the ink sits. Digital prints sit on the surface of the material, whereas dye sublimation infuses into the material. That means nothing can superficially damage a dye sublimation print. There is no material to chip, peel or scratch. The image becomes one with the material.

Big acrylic uses Dibond panels that are 96 by 60 inches in size. We can cut panels into any shape and size. However, sublimation panels made by Chromolux come pre-cut, so size customisation is not available.

Final Effect:

Here it really is up to individual taste. With a dye sublimation print on metal, white areas come through with extra shine. This is because the process uses no white ink. For the same reason, this type of printing on metal suits black and white photography. You can also achieve a warm effect with dye sublimation on wood.

This process will enhance the colours, and provide an illusion of texture and depth. However, some artists and photographers feel that dye sublimation does not capture sharpness as well as digital printing. An image can look slightly more blurred. In addition, digital printing lets you print white for a spot color or a backer. You can always consult with us, and we will suggest the best option to bring your print to life.

Technology has made it possible for anyone to create unique and vibrant works of art. From awesome iPhone filters to the printing side of the industry, we are seeing amazing innovations. Understanding the difference between dye sublimation and digital printing can help you choose the right format to create a masterpiece. At Big Acrylic, we love being part of this exciting technological revolution in art and photography.