How to Use Sublimation Paper? A 2023 Handout

June 8, 2023

So, how to use a sublimation paper in 2023?

Whether you're a newbie or an experienced crafter, we'll provide valuable insights, tips, and techniques to harness the power of sublimation paper. From personalized gifts to stunning home decor, learn to create vibrant, professional-quality designs that impress everyone. Get ready to unleash your creativity and elevate your DIY projects with the latest sublimation paper usage instructions for 2023.

This article will give show how to print on sublimation paper.

Part 1: How does sublimation paperwork?

Part 2: List of things you need to sublimate items

Part 3: Temperature chart for sublimation

Part 4: Temperature chart and other sips for sublimation-lovers

Part 5: Summary and FAQ

Part 1: How does sublimation paperwork?

Here's a step-by-step breakdown of how to print on sublimation paper printing process:

Prepare the printer:Ensure that the printer is ready for sublimation printing by loading the sublimation ink and cleaning the printhead.
Load the paper:Follow the instructions on the package to load the sublimation paper into the printer, ensuring that the bright white side is facing up to receive the image.
Flip the image:Before printing, flip or reverse the image on your computer to ensure proper transfer onto the garment.
Print:Initiate the printing process from your computer and confirm that the printer is activated. Double-check the printed image for accuracy before proceeding.
Prepare the garment:While sublimation printing doesn't require pretreatment, it is beneficial to preheat the garment to remove wrinkles and moisture. Press the garment in the heat press for a few seconds before applying the image.
Position the image:Place the printed image on the garment in the desired location. Use a sheet of either Teflon or parchment paper to cover the image. Teflon sheets are often provided with sublimation printers and are reusable after cleaning.
Press:Apply pressure with the heat press to transfer the image onto the garment. The pressing time may vary depending on the type of garment but typically ranges from 30 seconds for most fabrics to 60-90 seconds for firmer items.
Remove:Remove the sublimation paper from the garment and carefully remove the garment from the heat press. Lay it flat to cool down.

These steps will help you achieve successful sublimation printing results with crisp, vibrant designs on your garments.

Part 2: List of things you need to sublimate items

Before learning how to use sublimation paper, you will need the following items:

Sublimation Printer: A dedicated printer with sublimation inks is essential.
Sublimation Inks: Specialized sublimation inks that can transform from solid to gas when exposed to heat and pressure are required.
Sublimation Paper: High-quality sublimation paper coated with a polyester layer is necessary for transferring the printed design onto the substrate.
Heat Press:A heat press machine applies heat and pressure to transfer the sublimation ink from the paper to the substrate. It ensures proper adhesion and vibrant color reproduction.
Substrate:Choose the items or substrates you want to sublimate, such as fabrics, ceramic mugs, metal plates, or polyester-coated surfaces. Ensure the substrates are compatible with sublimation and withstand the heat press process.
Protective Cover Sheet: Teflon or parchment paper is a protective cover to prevent direct contact between the heat press and the sublimation paper, ensuring smooth and even heat distribution.
Design Software:Use design software on your computer to create or customize the designs you want to print on the sublimation paper.
Accessories: Have a clean, lint-free cloth for surface preparation, heat-resistant gloves for handling hot items, and a timer or stopwatch to ensure accurate pressing times.

By gathering these essential items, you'll be well-equipped to embark on your sublimation journey and create stunning, personalized items with vibrant, long-lasting designs.

Part 3: How to Use Sublimation Paper & Temperature chart for sublimation

In this section, you will learn the temperature chart, which is essential in how to print sublimation paper.

List of used machines and materials.

Black cotton T-shirt
Heat Tape
Sublimation on dark HTV
HTVRONT sublimation paper on dark HTV
Sublimation Paper
Protective cover sheet
Sublimation Printer

Here is how to use sublimation paper to achieve a good result.

Step 1: Heat Press and Cover:

Heat press the black cotton T-shirt you want to design for 5 seconds on a sublimation printer.

Now, put the material with the design on the surface of the black cotton T-shirt and cover it with a protective cover sheet, and heat press again for 8 seconds at a temperature of 390°F.

print design

Step 2: Remove the Protective Sheet

After 8 seconds:

Bring out the black cotton T-shirt.
Remove the protective cover sheet.
Peel off the material.

The material will peel off, leaving the design printed on the surface of the black cotton T-shirt.

Step 3: Sublimate

Now it's time to sublimate. Put the sublimation paper on top of the vinyl and fix the four angles using heat-reducing tape, then cover the design area using the protective cover sheet.

Put back into the sublimation printer for 40-60 seconds at a temperature of 390°F.

print on sublimation paper

Step 4: You Are Ready

Remove the black cotton T-shirt from the sublimation printer and peel off the vinyl. Now your design is printed entirely.

print on sublimation paper

Are you through with how to use the sublimation paper now? Read this article if you'd like to dive into how to use a sublimaiton sticker paper.

Part 4: Temperature chart and other tips for sublimation-lovers

Achieving the right temperature is crucial for successful sublimation. Here's a general temperature chart to guide you:

Material	Temperature	Time
Fabrics	375°F (190°C)	25-35 seconds
Ceramic mugs	400°F (205°C)	3-4 minutes.
Metal plates	400°F (205°C)	1-2 minutes.

Remember, these are general guidelines, and it's essential to refer to the instructions on sublimation paper and ink manufacturers for precise temperature settings.

Pro Tips:

Prepress: To ensure optimal results, prepress your substrates for a few seconds before applying the sublimation paper. This helps remove moisture and wrinkles, allowing for better ink penetration.
Use Heat-Resistant Tape: Secure the sublimation paper firmly using heat-resistant tape to prevent movement or slippage during the heat press, ensuring crisp and accurate image transfer.
Test Prints: Always perform test prints on a small piece of the substrate before proceeding with larger batches to help you adjust settings, verify color accuracy, and ensure desired results.
Maintain Proper Pressure: Adjust the pressure on your heat press machine according to the thickness and type of substrate you're working with. It's essential to achieve even pressure for consistent and reliable transfers.

Sublimation Wash Tips:

To maintain the longevity of your sublimated items, follow these wash care tips:

Wait Before Washing: Allow sublimated items to cool down completely before washing them.
Use Mild Detergent: Wash sublimated garments and fabrics using a mild detergent to avoid any potential damage to the ink.
Avoid Bleach and Harsh Chemicals: Do not use bleach or harsh chemicals when washing sublimated items, as they can fade or distort the colors.
Wash Inside Out: To protect the design, wash sublimated clothing and fabrics inside out.
Cold Water Washing: Use cold water for sublimated items to minimize color bleeding and fading.
Air Dry or Low Heat: It's best to air dry sublimated items or use a low heat setting in the dryer to avoid excessive heat exposure.

By following these temperature guidelines, pro tips, and wash care instructions, you'll be able to maximize the quality and longevity of your sublimated creations and perfect how to use sublimation paper. Also, read this article if you care to learn the best sublimation paper you can choose.

Part 5: Summary and FAQ

In conclusion, with clear instructions, practical tips, and guidance on choosing suitable materials and how to print on sublimation paper, now DIY enthusiasts can create stunning and long-lasting designs. HTVRONT sublimation paper enables image transfer without ink flowing or dyeing. This paper seamlessly blends sublimation ink into fabrics, ensuring impeccable results. Additionally, it dries quickly, saving you valuable time during your creative process. So, try it out today!

FAQs

Q1: Can You Use Sublimation Paper in Any Printer?

A: No, sublimation paper is not compatible with any printer. Sublimation paper requires specialized printers designed to work with sublimation inks. These printers come with printheads and ink systems precisely calibrated for sublimation printing. When exposed to heat and pressure, they use sublimation inks formulated to convert from a solid to a gas, allowing the ink to transfer onto the substrate.

Q2: Can you iron on sublimation transfers?

A: No. Ironing on sublimation transfers will not achieve the desired result because the heat from the iron is typically insufficient to convert the inks into a gas state. Sublimation requires precise temperature control and evenly distributed heat, achieved through a heat press machine.