Sublimation is the art of imprinting ink on a substrate. The sublimation method used depends on the kind of products to be sublimated. Some of the sublimation methods include color laser sublimation, black laser sublimation and color ink jet sublimation. One of the advantages of starting a sublimation business is that the start-up and production costs are low, while the profit margins are high. It may cost you less than $1,500 to set up a sublimation business profitably. In addition, it is easy to learn how to sublimate and manage the business.

Things You Will Need

  • Computer with at least a Random Access Memory (RAM ) of 32 MHz

  • Graphic design software

  • Printer which supports the use of sublimation dye and sublimation cartridges

  • Sublimation paper

  • Substrates which can support sublimation ink

  • Scanner

  • Heat press

  • Tabletop metal shear/plate cutter

  • Hole punchers

  • Notchers

  • Corner rounders

Register your business. Register the business name and the business with the Secretary of State. Also, get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and register for taxes with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Research the market. Decide what type of sublimation you will specialize in. Also, choose the specific sublimation services you would like to provide. Some of the sublimation services include name badge sublimation, desk signs, plaques mugs, T- shirts, trays and interior signs.

Get sublimation equipment. A heat press with a 15-square-inch head which has a thermostat, pressure control and automatic timer is recommended. A 12-inch plate cutter is the best option if you do not have any extraordinary sublimation needs. See "Things You'll Need" for additional recommended items.

Find a location. You can establish either an online presence or find a physical location. Your sublimation business can also be home based since you do not require a lot of space. A space of 100-by-100 feet is adequate to carry out your sublimation business.

Hire employees. Some of the qualifications and skills the employees should have include training in graphic design, fine arts or communication. The employees should also have skills in computerized design and printing techniques. Advertise for employees through online job boards or through print media such as newspapers.

Network and find clients. You can focus both on getting individual as well as corporate clients. Some of the services that companies and individuals who need sublimation services include photographers, graphic designers to create signs and fliers, and clothing companies to print garments, with T-shirt printing being one of the most popular. You can get new clients by carrying out promotional offers and offering customized solutions.