The inkjet dye sublimation process uses a heat sensitive dye, dissolved in a liquid, to print graphics and text onto special inkjet paper. This is called a dye sub transfer. The dye sub transfer and a sublimatable item are then placed into a heat press. At high temperatures the solid dye in the transfer converts into a gas without ever becoming a liquid. The high temperature also opens the pores of the polymer coating and allows the gas to enter. When the item is removed from the heat press, the temperature drops, the pores close and the gas reverts to a solid state. It has now become part of the polymer coating. When the heating cycle is completed, the image on the paper has been transferred into the coating on the item and has actually become a part of the surface. Run your finger across the surface of sublimation and you will feel nothing. Durability is very good unless the coating becomes damaged.