Sublimation Info

Basics of Sublimation Printing: A Quick Guide

Sublimation is a printing process that transfers dye onto materials like polyester fabric or specially coated items like mugs or tumblers. Here’s a step-by-step overview:

What You Need

1. Sublimation Printer – A printer capable of using sublimation ink (e.g., Sawgrass or Epson with sublimation conversion).
2. Sublimation Ink – Special ink that turns into gas when heated.
3. Sublimation Paper – Designed to hold sublimation ink for transfer.
4. Heat Press – Applies heat and pressure for transferring the design.
5. Compatible Blank Items – Sublimation works only on polyester fabric or items with a poly-coating (e.g., mugs, tumblers).

Step-by-Step Process

1. Design Your Image
   • Create or import your design into graphic software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Canva, or Silhouette Studio).
   • Mirror the image for correct orientation after transfer.
2. Print the Design
   • Load sublimation paper into the printer.
   • Use high-quality settings to print your design.
3. Prepare the Item
   • Ensure your blank is clean and free of dust or debris.
   • Use heat-resistant tape to secure the printed sublimation paper onto the blank item (design side facing the item).
4. Set Up the Heat Press
   • Adjust to the recommended temperature, pressure, and time (varies by item; e.g., 400°F for 40–60 seconds for fabric).
   • Preheat the item briefly to remove moisture.
5. Press the Design
   • Place the item and paper in the heat press.
   • Close the press and apply the appropriate settings.
6. Remove & Cool
   • Carefully remove the sublimation paper while the item is still warm.
   • Allow the item to cool completely.

Tips for Best Results

• Use 100% polyester or high-polyester blends for fabric.
• Ensure items are coated for sublimation (if not fabric).
• Experiment with small test designs to fine-tune settings.

Let me know if you need more details for specific projects! 😊

 

 

How to Sublimate a 20 oz Skinny Tumbler

Materials Needed:

• 20 oz skinny tumbler (sublimation-ready)
• Sublimation printer with sublimation ink
• Sublimation paper
• Heat-resistant tape
• Shrink wrap or silicone sleeve
• Heat gun (if using shrink wrap)
• Convection oven or tumbler press
• Heat-resistant gloves

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Design and Print
   • Create or select your design, ensuring it matches the dimensions of your tumbler (usually 9.3″ x 8.2″).
   • Print the design on sublimation paper using a sublimation printer with mirror image enabled.
2. Prepare the Tumbler
   • Clean the tumbler with alcohol to remove dust or oils.
   • Wrap the printed design tightly around the tumbler, aligning it carefully.
   • Secure the paper with heat-resistant tape to prevent movement.
3. Apply Shrink Wrap or Silicone Sleeve
   • For shrink wrap: Slide it over the tumbler and shrink it with a heat gun for a snug fit.
   • For silicone sleeve: Stretch it over the tumbler.
4. Sublimation Process
   • Convection Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place the tumbler on a stand or heat-safe surface and bake for 6-8 minutes, rotating halfway for even heating.
   • Tumbler Press: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Press the tumbler for 50-70 seconds, rotating if needed.
5. Cool and Unwrap
   • Carefully remove the tumbler using heat-resistant gloves.
   • Peel off the shrink wrap/sleeve and sublimation paper.
6. Finish
   • Let the tumbler cool completely.
   • Check for vibrant, even coloring and crisp edges.

Your sublimated tumbler is now ready to use or sell!

 

How to Sublimate a Coffee Mug

Materials Needed:

• Sublimation-ready coffee mug
• Sublimation printer and sublimation ink
• Sublimation paper
• Heat-resistant tape
• Heat press (mug press attachment recommended)
• Scissors or a craft knife

Instructions:

1. Design Preparation:
   • Create or choose your design using graphic design software.
   • Mirror the design and print it on sublimation paper using a sublimation printer.
2. Trim the Design:
   • Cut the printed design to fit the mug. Ensure it wraps smoothly and leaves no gaps.
3. Position the Design:
   • Wrap the sublimation paper around the mug with the printed side against the surface.
   • Secure the paper tightly with heat-resistant tape to prevent shifting.
4. Heat Press Settings:
   • Preheat the heat press to 400°F (204°C) or as specified by the mug manufacturer’s instructions.
   • Set the timer for 180–200 seconds and pressure to medium.
5. Sublimation Process:
   • Place the mug in the heat press, ensuring it’s positioned correctly.
   • Close the press and start the timer.
6. Cool Down:
   • When the timer ends, carefully remove the mug from the press (it will be hot).
   • Let it cool on a heat-safe surface before peeling off the sublimation paper.
7. Inspect and Enjoy:
   • Check for vibrant and evenly transferred colors. Your sublimated mug is now ready to use or sell!

Pro Tips:

• Always use sublimation-ready mugs to ensure proper ink transfer.
• Avoid touching the mug immediately after pressing; it’s extremely hot.
• Use a lint roller on the mug surface before pressing to remove any debris that might affect the print.