Sublimation is a term in which matter undergoes a phase transition directly from a solid to gaseous form, without passing through a liquid state. In our process, we use special ink, which when exposed to extreme temperatures and pressure, sublimates. While turned into a gas, it bonds/dies polyester fibers which have expanded under the same heat and pressure. When cooled, the newly died polyester fibers contract, making a permanent seal. So the colors actually become part of the item.