How to Sublimate Crafts? A Comprehensive Guide For Sublimation printing in 2022!

If you want to turn your craftwork into business, then sublimation printing is what you need to do. But the question stands How to Sublimate Crafts?

Understanding the technology and processes of sublimation is vital before you can get involved in this business. Getting started with sublimation can be difficult, but don’t fret; we have compiled a comprehensive guide to Sublimation Printing and crafting.

Without any further ado, let’s take a deep dive into the world of sublimation and learn how you can sublimate your custom products.

What is Sublimation Printer?

Getting started with sublimation requires a printer capable of transferring the design perfectly. You can accomplish this by using a sublimation printer. Alternately, you can convert a regular printer to do sublimation printing.

Prior to making a purchase, take into consideration the speed of printing, the price, the size of the media, and the ink colors for the printer.

Difference Between Sublimation Printer And Regular Printer

Printers using sublimation technology differ from regular printers. Sublimation printers utilize ink and sublimation paper to print on many items, including t-shirts, mugs, wooden frames, and keychains. How are they different from regular printers?

Regular printers are specifically designed for standard paper, but they additionally print onto photos as well as sticker papers. Sublimation printers print on specially-designed sublimation paper that can be used to print on many different media, from textiles to ceramics.

Types of Sublimation Printers

Sublimation printers can be classified into various categories based on the degree of expertise in printing and the size of the medium.

Desktop Format:  They are ideal for the new setup since they print on separate pieces of paper. Desktop printers are simple to put on tables or the desk. The sizes of paper range from 8.5 11′ 11.5″ x 11” up to 13 19” ‘ x 19″.

Narrow Format: These printers can produce 24-44-inch wide rolls of paper and is self-contained. They’re great for expanding businesses with larger prints or higher production numbers.

Wide Format: These printers can print on 44 to 104 inches wide sheets of paper. They are suitable for printing textiles, trade show banners, all-over apparel, and other items.

Sublimation Inks and Paper:

Since sublimation papers and inks are specially designed to stand up to heat and extreme pressure and help create quality designs with vibrant colors, they are highly recommended for sublimation printing.

Cutting Machine for Vinyl / Scissor:

Cutting machines are not necessary; however, it is highly recommended if you are looking to reduce time and energy by cutting counter-clockwise.

The Heat Press Machine/ Cricut Press

To transfer images onto the substrate, you’ll need to transfer the print onto the material; you will require a heat press. It is also possible to use any iron-on material (like an iron press or ordinary household iron); however, by using the heat press, you will get an even press, and the sublimated image will appear much more precise and vivid.

How to Sublimate: Step by Step (Generic Process)

Step 1:

Make a selection of the design and the blank (mug, shirt, pillowcase, mobile case, etc.) you wish to print on.

Step 2:

Print your graphics using a sublimation printer, paper, and ink.

Step 3:

Clean the blank with a tint roller, and if you want to sublimate fabric, press it for a few seconds in a heat press before you start to dry it and ensure that it is wrinkle-free and moisture-free.

Step 4:

Prepare a preheated 400-degree heat press and place the print and material in it. Alternatively, you can heat the paper to transfer the design to the blank using a household iron.

Step 5:

Wait for a while and remove the transfer paper. Voila! You’re finished with your sublimated product.

The 7 Sublimation Tips You Can Use To Make Your Sublimation Look Great

1. Equip yourself with the right tools.
2. Inks with pigment or dye should not be used.
3. Sublimation papers work best with sublimation ink only.
4. Do not print on regular paper.
5. Make sure the blank is you are using is wrinkle-free and moisture-free.
6. Set the temperature appropriately based on your equipment.
7. Dark-coloured fabrics are not recommended for sublimation.

Sum Up:

In the end, I hope you learned about sublimation printing. You can now sublimate your shirts, pillows, hoodies, mugs, and many other products. If you have any concerns or questions or want to share your experiences, do not hesitate to contact us!