Sublimation Printing Guide

Sublimation printing is a versatile method for transferring images onto various materials, such as t-shirts and ceramic mugs. This technique allows for the creation of personalized items using photos, graphic designs, and more. It's particularly effective for clothing because the ink integrates into the fabric fibres, making the design feel seamless and more comfortable than screen-printed designs.

Getting Started with Sublimation Printing

To begin sublimation printing, you'll need:

Sublimation transfer paper

A sublimation printer

Sublimation ink

A heat press

The process involves printing the image onto the sublimation paper and then transferring it to the garment using a heat press. Mastering sublimation printing requires understanding how to use the transfer paper correctly. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step-by-Step Instructions for Using Sublimation Paper
1.
Prepare the Printer: Load the sublimation ink into the printer and ensure the printhead is clean and ready.
2.
Load the Paper: Insert the sublimation paper into the printer as per the package instructions, with the bright white side facing up to receive the image.
3.
Flip the Image: On your computer, flip or reverse the image (like a mirror image) to ensure it transfers correctly onto the garment.
4.
Print: Start the printing process from your computer and check the printed image for accuracy before transferring it to the garment.
5.
Prepare the Garment: While pretreatment isn't necessary, preheating the garment to remove wrinkles and moisture can improve results. Press the garment in the heat press for a few seconds before applying the image.
6.
Position the Image: Place the image on the garment where you want it to appear. Cover it with a sheet of Teflon or parchment paper. Teflon sheets are often reusable after cleaning.
7.
Press: Use the heat press to transfer the image onto the garment. Hold the press for the specified time, typically about 30 seconds for most fabrics and 60-90 seconds for firmer items.
8.
Remove: Take off the sublimation paper and then remove the garment from the heat press. Lay it flat to cool.

Tips for Success with Sublimation Paper
Remove Backing: If your sublimation paper has a protective backing, ensure it's removed before printing the image.

Secure Your Image: Use heat-resistant tape or adhesive spray to secure the paper to the garment, preventing it from shifting during the heat press process.

Trim the Paper: After printing and drying the image on the sublimation paper, trim around the image to avoid a visible square shape on the garment.

By following these steps and tips, you can achieve high-quality results with sublimation printing. Happy printing!