Abstract: Systems and methods for decoratively coating a substrate are disclosed wherein the ink is diffused into the substrate, as opposed to onto the substrate. Substrates are able to comprise metals, plastics, bamboo, wood, glass, and metals wherein such materials can also be pre-coated. A system for transferring a decorative image to a substrate comprises a chamber configured to receive a substrate, a means for securing a transfer medium containing the decorative image to be transferred, an optional vacuum source coupled to the chamber, and a heat source removably coupled to the chamber. The transfer is positioned face down onto a surface of the substrate, secured into position. The vacuum source may be used to evacuate the chamber to more tightly pull the transfer medium to the substrate. Then the substrate and transfer are heated, and the transfer medium ink diffuses into the substrate, thereby diffusing the image into the substrate.

Abstract: Systems and methods of applying a decorating film to a substrate that reduce the occurrence of wrinkling of the decorating film during application of the film to the substrate and ensure a more uniform transfer of a pattern or image on the decorating film to the substrate. The same systems and methods can be used to apply a decorating film that laminates to a substrate. Systems of and methods for cooling a decorating chamber and removing the used decorating film from the substrate after a transfer of an image or pattern from the decorating film to the substrate.

Abstract: Systems and methods for decoratively coating a substrate are disclosed wherein the ink is diffused into the substrate, as opposed to onto the substrate. Substrates are able to comprise metals, plastics, bamboo, wood, glass, and metals wherein such materials can also be pre-coated. A system for transferring a decorative image to a substrate comprises a chamber configured to receive a substrate, a means for securing a transfer medium containing the decorative image to be transferred, an optional vacuum source coupled to the chamber, and a heat source removably coupled to the chamber. The transfer is positioned face down onto a surface of the substrate, secured into position. The vacuum source may be used to evacuate the chamber to more tightly pull the transfer medium to the substrate. Then the substrate and transfer are heated, and the transfer medium ink diffuses into the substrate, thereby diffusing the image into the substrate.