This podcast is brought to you by ColDesi

In Episode 142 of the CAS Podcast, we’re joined by sublimation expert Jim Francis of BestBlanks.com to talk all things sublimation. Jim has spent the better part of the last decade (we say 150 years affectionately) helping entrepreneurs launch and grow successful custom t-shirt and promo product businesses. And now that BestBlanks is part of the ColDesi family, we couldn’t wait to bring his experience directly to you.

Whether you’re new to the world of sublimation or considering adding it to your existing business, this episode gives you the inside scoop on what’s trending, what to sell, and how to get started with this powerful print technology.

Why Sublimation?

Sublimation is an ideal way to launch or expand a custom product business, especially if you’re:

● Working with a smaller budget

● Looking to create full-color, long-lasting prints

● Focused on personalization or promotional products

Jim breaks down why sublimation stands out as a low-barrier, high-potential option for business owners ready to start strong.

What’s Hot in Sublimation Right Now?

When asked what he’d sell if starting a business today, Jim didn’t hesitate:

● Drinkware (mugs, tumblers, shot glasses)

● Photo panels and home décor

● Name badges

● Custom mouse pads

● Holiday ornaments and seasonal gifts

These products offer high margins, fast production times, and endless customization potential—especially great for ecommerce, gift shops, and local personalization events.

Pros and Cons of Sublimation vs. Other Technologies

✅ Advantages:

● Vibrant, full-color prints that are permanently infused into the surface

● Excellent for polyester-based fabrics and specially coated hard goods

● Great for short-run and personalized orders

● Lower initial investment compared to other printing methods

⚠️ Limitations:

● Only works on light-colored polyester fabrics and coated substrates

● Not ideal for dark shirts or 100% cotton garments

● Requires precision in terms of blank selection and heat application

How Much Does It Cost to Start?

Jim outlines what you need to get rolling:

● Sawgrass sublimation printer (entry-level and pro models available)

● Hix heat press – dependable and built to last

● Sublimation inks and paper

● A good supply of blanks (mugs, shirts, décor items, etc.)

💵 Estimated startup cost: ~$1,000–$3,000, depending on scale and equipment options.

Exclusive Sublimation Tools from BestBlanks (Now Part of ColDesi)

ColDesi customers now have special access to BestBlanks’ top-tier sublimation products, including:

● Sawgrass Printers – professional, reliable, and easy to use

● Hix Heat Presses – American-made and time-tested

● Roland BN-20 – versatile for vinyl and print/cut

● Sublimation Inks and Supplies

● A vast selection of BLANKS – tested and ready to sublimate

💡 Pro Tip from Jim: Don’t underestimate the importance of high-quality blanks. They make all the difference in product quality and customer satisfaction.

Ready to Dive into Sublimation?

If you’re curious about sublimation systems or ready to integrate them into your business, visit BestBlanks.com or give Jim and his team a call. They’re passionate about helping you find the right setup to match your goals and budget.