Screen Print vs Sublimation: Why CURVD Prints to Last

What makes a custom mug feel timeless?
Well, it's not just the shape, the weight, or the hue. It’s the way the design holds up after a hundred dishwasher cycles, how the logo on your desk mug still looks sharp years later, and the quiet confidence that comes with a choice made to last. At CURVD, where we handcraft ceramic mugs to reflect beauty, sustainability, and function, we believe that how your design is printed matters just as much as what’s printed.

When it comes to printing custom designs on mugs, two major methods dominate the industry: screen printing and sublimation printing. While both have their place, this article takes a closer look at why we’ve committed to screen printing—and why it makes sense for clients who value durability, brand integrity, and aesthetics in every sip.

The Science Behind Screen Printing on Ceramics

Screen printing is one of the oldest and most trusted techniques for transferring ink. For ceramics, it involves pressing high-quality inks through a fine mesh screen and then firing the mug in a kiln. This process fuses the design into the glaze itself, creating a finish that is both durable and tactile.

According to research published in ScienceDirect, the firing process enables strong ink adhesion on ceramic substrates, which dramatically increases durability and resistance to wear.

It’s not just an art—it’s a science. Screen printing on ceramic is built to last, and when executed correctly, it offers unmatched longevity and sharpness.

That’s why when you're investing in durable ceramic mugs for your workplace or institution, you need printing that holds up, not peels off.

Sublimation Printing: Colorful, But Coated

Sublimation printing uses a different approach. It converts dye into gas under high heat, embedding it into a polyester or polymer-coated surface. The results can be bright and photo-realistic, but there's a catch: the print sits on a synthetic layer that can degrade over time, especially under frequent washing or heat exposure.

Studies show that polymer coatings used in sublimation wear down faster in dishwasher environments, reducing color vibrancy and potentially leaching chemicals. For clients prioritizing chemical-free mugs and safe, daily use, that’s not a compromise we’re willing to make.

Screen Print vs Sublimation Print: A Clear Comparison

Feature	Screen Printing (CURVD)	Sublimation Printing
Durability	Excellent – ink fired into glaze	Moderate – coating can degrade over time
Dishwasher & Microwave Safe	Yes – long-lasting even with daily use	Limited – risk of fading or damage
Color Vibrancy	Strong, especially with logos and solids	Excellent for full-color photo prints
Eco-Friendliness	Fewer synthetics, ceramic-safe inks	Often uses polymer coatings
Feel & Finish	Premium, matte, or gloss ceramic texture	Can feel coated or artificial
Cost Efficiency	Ideal for 20+ unit bulk orders	Better for single or small batch items
Best Use Case	Schools, offices, agencies, and long-term use	Personalized gifts or photo mugs

Why CURVD Stands by Screen Printing

We’ve tested, researched, and compared, and screen printing stands out every time. Here's why we at CURVD made it our signature printing method:

1. Built to Last

When a school or a company orders mugs for staff, it’s not a seasonal trend—it’s a gesture meant to endure. Our screen-printed designs don’t fade, scratch, or peel because they’re literally embedded into the mug surface.

2. Branding That’s Consistent

With screen printing, every mug carries a sharp, uniform impression of your logo. Sublimation can cause color variations between items, which is far from ideal if you’re curating a cohesive corporate identity.

3. Better for Bulk

If you're placing a 20+ unit order, screen printing is cost-effective and scalable. That’s why it’s the go-to for customized ceramic mugs for businesses and events.

4. Aligned with Sustainability

Our mugs are crafted using ceramic materials and decal printing, which ensures safety, integrity, and eco-responsibility. Sublimation often relies on petroleum-based coatings. With CURVD, you choose mindfulness.

When Screen Printing Makes the Most Sense

Screen printing for customized ceramic mugs is ideal for:

Schools gifting staff or alumni
Offices ordering onboarding kits
Startups preparing press packages
Agencies distributing event swag
Hospitality brands seeking the best ceramic mugs for the office

In short, it’s the choice for those who want their mugs to carry more than coffee—those who want them to carry meaning.

The Final Pour

At CURVD, we don’t cut corners. Every choice—from ceramic material to ink chemistry—is made with care. That’s why screen printing is more than a method for us—it’s a philosophy. It represents quality, sustainability, and a respect for the things we hold every day.

So, if you're searching for the best corporate gift, one that lasts beyond the unwrapping and makes your brand feel real in someone’s daily routine, choose CURVD.

Ready to Print What Matters?

✨ Place a bulk order of 20+ mugs and let your brand live in daily rituals.
💬Order your place today easily to get started with your custom quote.
📦 High-impact, screen-printed, ceramic mugs—crafted for the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are screen-printed mugs dishwasher and microwave safe?

Absolutely. CURVD’s screen-printed mugs are fired at high temperatures, fusing the design into the glaze. This makes them ideal for repeated microwave and dishwasher use without fading.

Can screen printing do complex or photographic designs?

Screen printing is best for solid logos, patterns, or text. For photorealistic images, sublimation offers better color range, but with trade-offs in durability.