Sublimation printing of large format items with customized logos
or text that varies for each print can be a time-consuming process.
Traditionally, printers have handled variable text by creating a
separate graphic for each variation. This approach can be time-consuming
especially with a large number of variations. Wasatch Softrips
Variable Data Printing (VDP) option has helped dramatically
improve this process.
The VDP option for Wasatch Softrip automates the
creation of variable text, graphic images, or background colors
through the use of templates. Coupled with the ever increasing speed
of today's inkjet printers, these improvements have translated into
increased productivity for large format sublimation printers. VDP
can be applied to a wide range of customized materials including
sportswear (hockey, football uniforms, etc), labels, large signage,
and promotional materials.
VDP Example - Customized Sportswear for Football Team
For illustrative purposes let's look at the typical case of printing
sports uniforms for a footballl team. With each uniform a separate
number, last name and position are needed for the back of each jersey.
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Layout template
with designations for uniform number and name. |
Before VDP was available, the operator had to manually prepare
each graphic individually. With VDP, one universal layout template
can be created that will automatically insert a new number and new
name for each print. Time spent preparing each uniform has been
dramatically reduced.
Data for each player can be loaded from Microsoft Excel or any
database that supports exporting of ASCII text files. With the VDP
preview print option, the operator has the capability of previewing
each uniform before printing. The previewing option allows the operator
to proof images before print without wasted ink, paper or processing
time.
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Save processing
time and wasted ink and papers by previewing your image |
Typesetting of the players name can be further customized with
drop shadows, outlines, and or type spacing. Templates can be reused.
The Heat Transfer Process
After all the different customized images are printed out they
are ready to be heat transferred onto the fabric. The best approach
for sublimating images onto athletic wear like football jerseys
is to pre-cut the fabric into individual cuts parts (as shown below).
Each individual printed piece can then be aligned with their matching
fabric piece. Once aligned, the transfer is ready for the heat press.
It may be useful to have some sublimation spray tack available to
help hold the transfer in place while it's on the telfon belt. After
sublimation the individual pieces can be sewn back together.
The VDP option for Wasatch Softrip is available as an option
with Jesse J. Heap & Son's total
solution dye sublimation printing package. We also carry a
full line of heat transfer
presses.
See example
screenshot of VDP graphical interface. The screenshot illustrates
25 different variations of a football jersey with interchangeable
last name, number and position.
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