Abstract: A device and method that employs prints produced by video color system thermal printers as transfers for creating personalized ceramic mugs, tiles or the like articles. The method comprises creating a mirror image print by means of a color video system with printer, applying that print to the surface of the mug or the like which has been treated with a sublimable dye absorbing compound, and applying heat (200 to 400° F.) and pressure exerted by a force of 200 to 400 pounds for period of time of about three to six minutes, to sublimate the limited dye in the print whereby it is absorbed by the coated surface of the mug or the like. The device for applying the heat and pressure is a heated press that has removable heated slidable platens which conform to the shape of the article to which the print is being transferred.

Abstract: A method of applying the images in prints, produced by a color image thermal printer, on ceramic mugs, tiles, and metal objects having a coatings which absorbs the sublimable dyes employed, and on fabrics with a polyester content of 50% or higher. The method employs a heat press to transfer the sublimable dyes of the image produced on conventional color video printer print paper into a plastic surface coating applied to ceramic mugs, tiles, or metal articles or the polyester components of fabrics. The limited quantities of sublimable dyes contained in the print originally designed to be an end product produce a sharp, clearly defined transfer of the images from the electronic print paper when heated to between 350.degree.-450.degree. F. while being tightly and continuously pressed against the transfer surface by a relatively high pressure for a period of three to six minutes.