Free shipping on orders $150 plus!

What is Dye Sublimation and Custom Flags?
24 Dec 2021

What is Dye Sublimation and Custom Flags?

Flagpole Installation Roanoke VA

flagpole installation edison nj

Dye sublimation is the technical term for transferring a graphic from paper to fabric using a heating press. Although there are several options for creating custom flags, dye sublimation allows for highly accurate color matching and crisp outlines. This flag creation process allows manufacturers to replicate vibrant colors, as well as extremely fine details. Although dye sublimation offers many benefits, it does come with some downsides, which include color fading.

The first step of dye sublimation is to create a digital image using a computer or tablet. By using highly sophisticated design software, such as Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop, individuals can be very creative and distinct with their designs. Once the design is finished, a large format printer prints the image on a specialized piece of copy paper. Once printed, the image and fabric are placed within a heat-pressing machine to transfer the image. Once finished, flags achieve colors between 720 and 1400 dpi.

Who benefits from dye sublimation?

Of course, anyone that wants a truly accurate representation of a design should consider this printing process. Business owners and marketing companies have a stake in creating a consistent brand between digital and non-digital media. Logos on websites need to look the same as logos on business cards and flags. Dye sublimation is applied to all flags and banners, which means that the process is highly customizable to exact marketing needs.

We specialize in flagpole installation Montclair, NJ. Call us now!

Related Reading

LATEST BLOGS

Catch up with Gates Flag News

America250 and the Official Celebration Flag
By 
Gates Flag & Banner
 on 
Jul 07, 2025

America250 and the Official Celebration Flag

As America approaches a historic milestone—the 250th anniversary of our nation's founding in 2026—excitement is building across all fifty states. This once-in-a-generation celebration, officially known as America250, honors the birth of our nation and reflects on the journey that has brought us to where we are today. From community events to nationwide commemorations, America250 is poised to be a moment of unity, reflection, and pride for every American.

READ MORE
A Look Back at the US Army's 250th Birthday Celebration
By 
Gates Flag & Banner
 on 
Jun 30, 2025

A Look Back at the US Army's 250th Birthday Celebration

The U.S. Armey recently celebrated its 250th birthday. On June 14th, the nation came together in Washington, D.C. for a powerful display of patriotism and pride. Veterans, active-duty troops, wounded warriors, Gold Star Families, and Americans from across the country gathered to commemorate the U.S. Army’s enduring legacy of strength and sacrifice. President Donald J. Trump led the festivities, participating in a momentous tribute to those who have defended the nation across generations.

READ MORE
The 250th Birthday of the US Army
By 
Gates Flag & Banner
 on 
Jun 13, 2025

The 250th Birthday of the US Army

At Gates Flag & Banner, we’ve had the honor of helping Americans fly their flags high and proud for generations. But few occasions stir the heart quite like this one: the United States Army is turning 250 years old.

READ MORE
Displaying the American Flag at Home: A Guide to Flag Etiquette
By 
Gates Flag & Banner
 on 
May 30, 2025

Displaying the American Flag at Home: A Guide to Flag Etiquette

At Gates Flag & Banner, we've been proud to help Americans display their flags with honor, respect, and pride for over a century. Whether you're flying the Stars and Stripes year-round or just on special occasions, displaying the flag at your home is a meaningful way to show patriotism. But with that privilege comes responsibility — and we're here to help you get it right.

READ MORE
The U.S. Air Force Flag: A Legacy of Valor, Vision, and the Skies Above
By 
Gates Flag & Banner
 on 
May 13, 2025

The U.S. Air Force Flag: A Legacy of Valor, Vision, and the Skies Above

At Gates Flag & Banner, we take pride in helping Americans honor service, sacrifice, and national spirit through our premium flags. Among our most requested and revered items is the United States Air Force flag—a bold symbol of aerial supremacy, cutting-edge innovation, and unyielding dedication. But what exactly is the story behind the Air Force flag? What do its symbols stand for? As the leading online retailer of military and U.S. flags, we're here to offer a closer look.

READ MORE
Choosing the Right Custom Flag Printing Method
By 
Gates Flag & Banner
 on 
May 07, 2025

Choosing the Right Custom Flag Printing Method

At Gates Flag & Banner, we believe your flag should be as unique as the values, story, or organization it represents. That’s why we offer several custom printing and crafting methods to bring your vision to life—each tailored for different uses, durability needs, and aesthetic preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the four primary techniques we use for custom flag production and guidance on which method might be the best fit for your specific needs.

READ MORE
Understanding the Bunker Hill Flag
By 
Gates Flag & Banner
 on 
Apr 24, 2025

Understanding the Bunker Hill Flag

The Bunker Hill Flag, also known as the Blue Ensign of New England, is thought to have been flown by continental forces at the Battle of Bunker Hill, on June 17, 1775. However, historians disagree about whether or not this flag actually featured in the Battle of Bunker Hill. And if the flag was used, there is also disagreement about what it looked like.

READ MORE
The History of the Washington Cruisers flag
By 
Gates Flag & Banner
 on 
Apr 17, 2025

The History of the Washington Cruisers flag

When we unfurl a flag here at Gates Flag & Banner, we know we’re doing more than raising fabric and thread—we’re raising stories. And few flags carry a story as bold, defiant, and distinctly American as the Washington Cruisers flag. With its simple yet powerful design—white background, a green pine tree, and the words “An Appeal to Heaven”—this banner is one of our favorites to share, especially with those who believe that flags are more than decoration; they’re declarations.

READ MORE

OVER 150 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

SHOW YOUR FLAG WITH PRIDE - SHOP NOW!

Discover premium, American-made flags and flagpoles at Gates Flag & Banner Company, Inc. From U.S. and state flags to custom designs, we’ve got you covered.

SHOP ALL PRODUCTS

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get weekly updates on all our best products

Thanks for subscribing!

This email has been registered!

Popular Products

American Flag - Nylon - Outdoor
Add To CartQuick Add
Close
Notify me
Notify me
Notify me
Notify me
American Flag - Nylon - Outdoor
From $24.50
$49.74
From $24.50
Add To CartQuick Add
Close
Notify me
Notify me
Notify me
Notify me
The U.S. Outdoor Nylon Flag is available in sizes 12”x18” to 30’x60’. Manufactured with 100% SolarGuard Nylon, the longest lasting nylon available. This unique material provides the best resistance to...
POW-MIA Flag Flag - Nylon
Add To CartQuick Add
Close
Notify me
Notify me
Notify me
Notify me
POW-MIA Flag Flag - Nylon
From $22.74
From $22.74
Add To CartQuick Add
Close
Notify me
Notify me
Notify me
Notify me
This POW-MIA flag is available in options suitable for outdoor display. Available in single reverse or double sided. Outdoor Flags: Manufactured with 100% SolarGuard Nylon which is designed to resist fading with normal...
Thin Blue Line American Flag
Add To CartQuick Add
Close
Notify me
Notify me
Thin Blue Line American Flag
From $29.78
From $29.78
Add To CartQuick Add
Close
Notify me
Notify me
Outdoor Flags: Manufactured with 100% SolarGuard Nylon which is designed to resist fading with normal use. Durable and fast drying. Lightweight nylon material will fly in the lightest breeze.  Features a strong...
U.S. Navy Flag
Add To CartQuick Add
Close
Notify me
Notify me
Notify me
Notify me
U.S. Navy Flag
From $22.74
From $22.74
Add To CartQuick Add
Close
Notify me
Notify me
Notify me
Notify me
Show your support for our active & retired Military Personnel.   Outdoor Flags: Manufactured with 100% SolarGuard Nylon or Polyester which is designed to resist fading with normal use. Durable and fast drying. Lightweight nylon...
Out Of Stock
this is just a warning