UV print or sublimation: which technique fits your project?
Sublimation only works on polyester and coated plastics. UV print directly on wood, metal, acrylic, dibond, ceramic and textile — with tactile 3D texture up to 5 mm high.
UV print vs. sublimation at a glance
Both techniques deliver colorful prints, but they differ greatly in material compatibility, durability and effect. Here are the key differences.
- Almost any material: wood, metal, acrylic, dibond, ceramic, leather, glass, stainless steel
- Tactile 3D texture up to 5 mm high through multi‑layer ink build‑up
- White ink for opaque printing on dark and transparent substrates
- Scratch‑resistant and waterproof — no lamination needed
- No heat required — suitable for heat‑sensitive objects
- Small runs without high setup costs
- Sharp edges and fine details thanks to direct UV curing
- Outdoor applications possible with UV‑resistant inks
- Polyester or coated substrates only — no wood, metal or glass
- No white ink — requires a white base for vivid colors
- No 3D texture — print is always flat
- High heat required — unsuitable for heat‑sensitive products
- Colors fade faster outdoors due to UV degradation
- Higher minimum runs due to fixed setup costs per color
- No opaque print on dark or colored substrates
- Limited material choice restricts creative freedom
Why UV print is the better choice
UV print technology combines broad material compatibility with a premium finish that sublimation simply cannot match.
Material choice without limits
- Print directly on wood, aluminium, dibond, acrylic, stainless steel, ceramic and more
- No coating or preparation required for most hard materials
- Ideal for unique and durable products
Premium quality & tactile texture
- 3D relief up to 5 mm high for a tangible premium experience
- White ink for opaque printing on any substrate
- 1440 DPI for razor‑sharp detail and photo quality
Durable and weather‑resistant
- Scratch‑resistant, waterproof and UV‑resistant without extra lamination
- Suitable for outdoor and industrial applications
- Colors remain vibrant, even after years
When should you choose UV print?
UV print is the smart choice for projects where sublimation falls short.
Business applications
- Name plates and signage on metal or dibond
- Promotional items on diverse materials
- Interior panels and wall decoration
- Awards and trophies with relief
- Industrial labels and marking
Creative & personal projects
- Photo on wood, stone or ceramic
- Personalised gifts on unique materials
- Artworks with 3D texture and gloss finish
- Custom phone cases, magnets and accessories
- Outdoor decoration and façade panels
How does UV printing work?
UV printing is fast, precise and immediately ready — no curing time or lamination needed.
1. Submit your file
Supply your design as PDF, AI or high‑resolution PNG. We check the file for print readiness.
2. Material & ink layers
The UV printer applies CMYK ink and optionally white and varnish in multiple layers directly onto the material.
3. Instant UV curing
UV light cures the ink within milliseconds. The result is immediately dry, scratch‑resistant and ready to use.
Ready to print on your material?
Request a free quote or discuss your project with our team. We advise you on the best technique and the right material.