Coffee mugs printed using 'dye sublimation'

Dye Sublimation has been used in printing for some time but has only recently become available for ceramic decoration.

Special inks are printed onto the surface of a coated paper, but not as a permanent print. The paper releases the print when heat is applied, when in contact with the prepared surface of a beaker.

The Dye Sublimation process uses organic dyes allowing a stunning combination of colours. It is a more versatile finish than fired enamel colours, as it does not have to withstand a kiln firing. However, some loss of the vividness can arise if exposed to too much bright light and heat and the protective film can lose its lustre if washed frequently in harsh dishwasher cycles.

Nevertheless, it is bold and with the right artwork opens up brilliant reproduction possibilities straight from the computer screen.