Can You Do Sublimation on Wood?

Sublimation can be done on wood, but it requires a special type of wood that has a polymer coating designed for sublimation. Hence it is not one of the closely related sublimation examples. While the process can produce vibrant and durable prints, the limitations and costs associated with sublimation on wood may not be suitable for all projects. If you are looking to print on wood, it is recommended that you explore alternative printing methods.

Sublimation is a printing process that involves transferring dye from a carrier paper onto a substrate using heat and pressure. The heat causes the dye to become a gas, which then bonds with the substrate to create a permanent, high-quality image.

Limitations of Sublimation on Wood

1. Limited Compatibility

Not all types of wood can be used for sublimation printing. Only woods that have a polymer coating designed for sublimation can be used, which can be limiting when it comes to selecting the type of wood for your project.

2. Limited Durability

While sublimation on wood can produce vibrant and long-lasting prints, the durability is limited compared to other printing methods such as UV printing or direct-to-garment printing. The print can be easily scratched or damaged if not properly handled and maintained.

3. Cost

Sublimation on wood requires a special type of printer and ink, as well as the specific polymer-coated wood material, which can be expensive compared to other printing methods.

Alternatives to Sublimation on Wood

If sublimation on wood is not feasible or cost-effective for your project, there are other printing methods that can be used to achieve high-quality results on wood. Some of these methods include UV printing, direct-to-garment printing, and screen printing.