What is Sublimation Printing?
Dye sublimation printing is a heat-transfer printing method where solid dye converts directly to gas (sublimes) and bonds permanently into the coating or fibres of a substrate. Unlike transfers that sit on top of a surface, sublimation colour becomes part of the material itself — which is why it never cracks, peels, or fades with normal use.
In Nairobi, sublimation printing is widely used for corporate gifts (mugs, photo panels, keyrings), sports team kits (all-over printed jerseys), NGO and hospitality branded uniforms, and personalised gifts (photo mugs, framed panels).
What Can You Print on with Sublimation?
Sublimation requires either polyester fabric (minimum 65% polyester) or hard goods with a special polyester coating. Materials we commonly print on include:
- Mugs — standard 11oz and 15oz ceramic sublimation mugs
- Polyester jerseys and sportswear — all-over full-colour printing
- Metal photo panels — aluminium panels with vibrant, gallery-quality prints
- Phone cases — sublimation-coated hard cases
- Coasters — ceramic and MDF sublimation coasters
- Keyrings and bottle openers — popular corporate giveaways
- Cushion covers — personalised home décor
- Caps and hats — sublimation-coated panels
Sublimation Printing Prices in Nairobi
| Product | Description | Price (KES) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Mug (11oz) | Full wraparound, any design | 350 per mug |
| Large Mug (15oz) | Full wraparound | 450 per mug |
| Sublimation Jersey | All-over print, polyester | 800 per piece |
| Metal Photo Panel (A4) | Aluminium, glossy | 600 per panel |
| Ceramic Coaster | Both sides, 9cm round/square | 250 per coaster |
| Phone Case | iPhone/Samsung, custom design | 400 per case |
| Keyring | Metal sublimation keyring | 200 per piece |
| Corporate Mug Set (50+) | Same design, bulk pricing | From 280 per mug |
Sublimation vs DTF vs Screen Printing for Corporate Gifts
When choosing a printing method for corporate gifts and branded apparel in Kenya, the right choice depends on the substrate:
- Use sublimation for: mugs, metal panels, all-over polyester sportswear, corporate gift sets, personalised items
- Use DTF for: cotton T-shirts, mixed-fabric polo shirts, caps — where sublimation won't bond properly
- Use screen printing for: very large quantities (500+) of simple 1–3 colour designs on cotton garments
Corporate Sublimation Gift Sets in Nairobi
Corporate gift sets are one of our most popular sublimation products. A typical set might include a branded mug, coaster, pen, and photo panel in a gift box — all customised with your company logo and employee name. These are popular for staff rewards, client appreciation gifts, and conference welcome packs.
We handle corporate gift orders from as few as 10 sets to hundreds of units, with full design and packaging support available.
Get a Sublimation Printing Quote
WhatsApp Luna Graphics at +254 791 159 618 or visit us on Kweria Road, Nairobi CBD. Share your design, the product type, and quantity — we will provide a quote within the hour.
Explore our printing services:
- Sublimation Printing Nairobi — Mugs, jerseys, gifts & more
- DTF Printing — For cotton & mixed-fabric garments
- T-Shirt & Garment Printing — All quantities welcome
Written by Luna Graphics Team
Print Specialists
Professional contributor at Luna Graphics specializing in printing and branding solutions.
