Diffusion decoration technology

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 can comprise metals, plastics, bamboo, wood, glass, and metals wherein such materials can also be precoated. 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.