Why sublimation?
Looks are everything when it comes to the effective performance of signage. Sublimation delivers greater colour gamut and definition than vinyl lettering, etching, engraving and other signmaking methods. It delivers high-resolution prints by its very nature, with recent advances in technology providing the capability to print up to 1,440 x 1,440 dots-per-inch (dpi). By combining this technology with the growing number of substrates that can accept sublimation’s dye-based inks, a wider range of POP displays can benefit from a unique recipe for success.
And due to the superior graphic reproduction and durability of sublimated displays, they can command a higher price from clients, who can see how the value of sublimated signs is greater than their other standard options. A client will pay more for a sublimated menu featuring a design created specifically to complement his/her business’ interior décor, for example, than for
a simpler, more generically printed menu. A sign shop that can offer both options boosts its potential for profits.
With regard to durability, there is a diverse and growing range of commercially available substrates for creative POP displays. Rigid substrates like aluminum, fibreglass-reinforced plastics and hardboard have proven highly effective for sublimated signs of many types, including ‘floating’ or flush-to-the-wall panels, murals, architectural elements, sandwich boards, interior décor, functional signs (e.g. for wayfinding) and dry-erase boards, among others. Even ceiling tiles can be printed.
At the flexible end of the spectrum, textiles can become soft signage for a variety of applications, including table throws, floor mats and stretched-fabric exhibitry structures.
Sublimation opens the door to many additional revenue streams because one printer can produce images on hundreds of different substrates. This allows signmakers to operate a one-stop shop for many of their clients’ needs.
If a new hotel is opening, for example, a sublimation-equipped shop can produce not just its interior and promotional signage, but also artwork for the lobby walls, linens featuring the hotel’s logo and name tags and uniforms for the staff.
Sublimated display graphics offer superior graphic reproduction and durability compared to those produced with other methods.
