What is ceramic transfer?
Ceramic transfer is a permanent printing method. This procedure is used on ceramic, glass and porcelain products. It is one of the most widely used marking techniques for personalising mugs or cups because, unlike other marking methods, using a microwave or dishwasher causes virtually no wear to the print.
What does ceramic transfer printing involve?
Underglaze transfer uses a special paper on which the design is printed using a system similar to digital transfer. This ceramic transfer paper is then moistened and placed on the item. The object is then fired in a specialised kiln at very high temperatures, around 700°C, which causes the pores in the material to open.
Once cooled, the pores close again, fixing the print to the material, leaving a perfect finish that will last over time. There are two types of ceramic transfer: low-temperature, which can be personalised in up to 10 colours, and high-temperature, which is more durable but can only be personalised in black and white.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of this ceramic printing technique?
One of the main advantages of ceramic transfer printing is that it is highly adhesive, which means that personalised objects can be put through the dishwasher or microwave without damaging the print.
It also offers high-quality designs with a large marking area, similar to that achieved by sublimation.
C'est l'une des rares techniques qui permet de réaliser des impressions à l'intérieur des objets, par exemple à l'intérieur d'un mug.
It is one of the few techniques that can be used to print inside objects, such as a mug.
However, there are two main drawbacks to bear in mind when choosing this technique.
Firstly, it is only possible to use a limited number of shades, which restricts personalisation; secondly, the use of solid colours is recommended due to the high temperatures to which the product is subjected, as the Pantone colour selected may vary slightly. For example, light inks may appear slightly darker. Our advice: consult us so that we can select the Pantone colours which, once baked, will come closest to the colours you want to obtain.
For which objects should underglaze transfers be used?
The most important thing is not the type of object, but rather the material it's made from. This technique is particularly suitable for glass, ceramic and porcelain items.
The fact that it is suitable for kitchen utensils and crockery makes it ideal for customisable mugs. It is also a marking technique that we regularly apply to glass mugs and other ceramic or porcelain tableware.
Differences with similar techniques
Image transfer on ceramics has similarities with screen printing and pad printing, as all three techniques can be used on the same type of object.
However, the print created by ceramic underglaze transfer is more durable and more resistant to being put in the dishwasher or microwave, making it the ideal option for everyday kitchen objects.
How much does underglaze transfers cost?
Ceramic transfer may cost more than other marking methods, but the quality and durability of the print more than make up for this. If you want a long-lasting design, this is certainly the best option.