What is Inkjet, and how does it work?
First, although Inkjet is referred to as Dye Sub, it actually isn’t Dye Sub, as Dye Sub transfers are created in thermal printers using varying degrees of heat to sublimate dyes from a paneled ribbon in the printer to a special carrier paper. The image is then re-sublimated onto the final substrate. This “second generation” transfer offers quasi photo-realistic images, yet is limited to coated ceramics and treated fabrics. Inkjet technology is the culmination of an intellectual idea known as “HYBRID SUBLIMATION” that uses digital printers for printing sublimation dyes. This technology is applicable to all major computer driven printer formats including thermal, inkjet and LaserJet. Inkjet actually works by printing sublimation dyes, using supported ink jet printers (a current favorite is Epson), in an inactivated or non-sublimated state onto a standard paper product. Using time, temperature and pressure, the image is then transferred to the final substrate. This generation of transfers
