Why Sublimation Ink Colors Look Faded After Printing (And How To Fix It)

Have you ever pulled a freshly pressed sublimation print, only to find the colors disappointingly dull? Faded sublimation results are frustrating, but they're often caused by identifiable—and fixable—issues. Let's explore the key culprits and proven solutions to achieve vibrant, long-lasting prints every time.

5 Common Causes of Faded Sublimation Colors

1. Wrong Transfer Paper

Problem:
Using non-sublimation paper or incorrect GSM (thickness) leads to:

• Cockling (wrinkling from excess ink)

• Ghosting (faint duplicate images)

• Banding (visible lines in prints)

Fix:Match paper GSM to your substrate:

• 22–55 GSM: Apparel, soft signage

• 68–130 GSM: Hard substrates (mugs, tiles)

• Use quick-dry coated paper for optimal ink release.

2. Missing or Incorrect ICC Profile

Problem:
Without a proper ICC profile, colors appear washed out due to incorrect RGB-to-CMYK conversion.

Fix:Install manufacturer-recommended ICC profiles for your ink + printer combo.

Calibrate your monitor and printer monthly.

3. Incorrect Heat Press Settings

Problem:
Temperature or pressure deviations cause:

• Under-sublimation (ink doesn’t fully gasify → muted colors).

• Over-gassing (ink bleeds → blurry edges).

Fix: Follow these guidelines:

 4. Low-Quality Sublimation Ink

Problem:
Cheap inks use inferior dyes that:

• Produce grainy, uneven colors.

• Fade quickly after washing.

Fix:

• Use ISO-certified inks with fine dye particles.

• Store inks at 59–77°F to prevent degradation.

5. Incompatible Substrate

Problem:
Sublimation requires polyester or polymer-coated surfaces. Cotton or dark fabrics yield faded results.

Fix:

• For fabrics: ≥65% polyester content.

• For dark garments: Apply a white HTV base layer first.

• Pro Tips to Prevent Fading

• Pre-Print Checks:

  Run nozzle tests weekly.

• Print a small test swatch before full production.

• Design Prep:

  Convert artwork to CMYK mode.

• Avoid ultra-dark colors (they sublimate poorly).

• Post-Print Care:

  Wash sublimated items in cold water only.

• Air-dry; avoid direct sunlight.

Final Thought

Vibrant sublimation prints hinge on precise materials + settings. By addressing these five factors—paper, profiles, heat, ink, and substrate—you’ll eliminate fading and achieve professional-grade results consistently.