Facts taken from
Dye sublimation is the process of turning a water-based dye ink into a gas that bonds with polyester fabric or other polymers. It dyes the polymer molecule, resulting in a vibrant graphic that never washes off. This is done with the aid of some transfer paper and a heat press.
The transfer will be as soft as a screen-printed shirt, but is much easier to make. No color separation, no messy inks, no exposing and washing screens. Just print and press.
When it comes to making decorated garments with a soft hand, sublimation is king. Sublimation is the only method of garment decoration that doesn’t add anything to the fabric; no ink, no toner, no film. You’re literally changing the fabric’s color. So there’s nothing to feel but the fabric.