Dye sublimation is a printing process that uses heat to transfer dye onto materials like fabric, plastic, or paper. The dye is first printed onto a special transfer paper in a solid form. When heat and pressure are applied, the dye turns into a gas and permeates the surface of the material, creating vibrant and durable images. This technique is commonly used for creating custom items such as t-shirts, mugs, and banners. Because the dye becomes part of the material, the prints are resistant to fading and cracking, making dye sublimation a popular choice for high-quality, long-lasting products.