Sustainable Dye Sublimation Printing at Friedmans
By FunkiFabrics, 14 May 2026
As sustainability becomes an increasingly important focus within the textile and fashion industries, businesses are looking for manufacturing partners that can deliver both exceptional quality and environmentally conscious production methods.
At Friedmans, we are committed to continually improving our processes and investing in more sustainable ways to produce digitally printed textiles. One of the key technologies supporting this commitment is our dye sublimation printing process.
What is Dye Sublimation Printing?
Dye sublimation is a digital printing process used primarily for polyester fabrics and performance textiles. The design is first printed onto transfer paper using specialist water-based sublimation inks. Heat and pressure are then used to transfer the design permanently into the fabric fibres. The result is a vibrant, durable print with exceptional colour clarity. Because the dye becomes part of the fabric itself rather than sitting on the surface, sublimation printing offers outstanding colour fastness and long-lasting performance.
A Dry Printing Process with No Water Waste
One of the major environmental advantages of dye sublimation printing is that it is a dry process.
Unlike traditional textile dyeing and printing methods, dye sublimation does not require large quantities of water during production. There are no washing stages, steaming baths or excess dye run-off, helping to significantly reduce water consumption and waste.
At Friedmans, we use water-based sublimation inks, further supporting a cleaner and more environmentally conscious production process.
This means:
• No water is used during the transfer stage
• Minimal waste compared to conventional dyeing
• Reduced chemical usage
• Cleaner production processes
• Efficient short-run and on-demand printing
Printing on Recycled and Specialty Fabric Bases
At Friedmans, sustainability and creativity go hand in hand. Alongside our digital printing capabilities, we offer a wide range of fabric bases suitable for dye sublimation printing, including recycled performance fabrics and specialist shine base fabrics designed to make collections stand out.
One popular option is our PF1004 Life Recycled base, a recycled polyester fabric with a beautiful subtle sheen that enhances printed colour and creates a premium finish. It is an excellent choice for brands looking to combine sustainability with high visual impact.
For customers wanting even more stage presence and standout appeal, our shine bases offer exciting creative possibilities. An example of this is our PF1017 Hologram Shine base delivers a striking reflective finish that creates real wow factor for dancewear, sportswear, performance costumes and fashion applications.
From eco-conscious recycled fabrics to high-impact specialty bases, there is truly something for everyone.
Supporting More Responsible Textile Production
Digital textile printing also allows for more efficient production compared to traditional bulk manufacturing methods.
Because we can print on demand, businesses can:
• Order smaller quantities with a quick turnaround
• Reduce overproduction
• Minimise excess stock
• Produce more targeted collections
• React quickly to trends and customer demand
This flexibility helps brands operate more efficiently while supporting more sustainable manufacturing practices.
Innovation and Sustainability at Friedmans
At Friedmans, we are always striving to improve our environmental practices and invest in smarter production technologies. From using water-based inks to offering recycled fabric bases and efficient digital textile printing solutions, sustainability remains an important part of how we operate.
We continue to work with brands, designers and manufacturers across fashion, sportswear, dancewear and interiors to deliver high-quality printed textiles with a focus on innovation, efficiency and responsible production.
To learn more about our digital textile printing services, visit: Friedmans Digital Textile Printing Services
