A Die sublimation process is primarily the use of "transfers" applied to the product in 4 stages:

1. A digital image is first produced through the use of computer graphic software such as CorelDraw or PhotoShop. This can include a corporate logo, a scanned photo, a newly generated graphic, text, or a combination of all of these.

2. This image is then printed onto standard coated media using a set of special heat-activated inks. Sublimation inks are unique in their ability to convert from a solid to a gas without going through a liquid form (just like dry ice).

3. The special transfer paper in step 2 is applied to the product such as ceramics, cloth, metals, and plastics. An example of die sublimation products are as follows:
   

   Name Badge	Plates	Shapes (metal, wood, plastic)
   Coasters	Mouse Mats	Shapes (metal, wood, plastic)
   Tags	Porcelain	Ceramics (tiles mugs)
   Neck Ties	Placemats	MDF Wood signs
   Key rings	Dog Tags	Acrylic Fridge Magnets
   And much much more

4. The conversion is initiated by heat and controlled with pressure.

Heat and pressure is applied to the printed coated sheet, the ink sublimates (is absorbed) into the surface of the final product. This procedure can be likened to a tattoo, where the final image is not affixed to the receiving surface (silk-screening, hot-stamping, and printing), but rather is absorbed into it; in effect becoming part of the material. This makes sublimated products extremely durable and very attractive.

Sublimation-decorated products can be produced efficiently for short production runs and in FULL COLOUR, as all colours are imprinted onto the "transfer" paper in one printing process.

With ceramic decals each and every colour has to be printed individually and in sequence, mostly with screen printing. A different printing screen or plate has to be made for each colour and each colour has to be registered on top of the one below until all colours are printed. This is a rather expensive undertaking if only a few decorations are required but is more efficient for large printings of the same decoration. Of course, FULL COLOUR decorations are hardly possible with the screen-printing process even today.

To preserve the beauty and vibrancy of the sublimation images on your coffee mugs, it is best to hand wash them just as you would hand wash your best porcelain and China as well as your finest glassware. Never leave them in direct sunlight, as for example on a window sill.