Sublimation Printing

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Ok, so I am still learning how to do sublimation printing, but it’s a pretty cool way of expanding your creativity. This is what I’ve learned so far.

First, sublimation ink works best on 100% polyester or material that has a high percentage of polyester (at least 50-60%). The reason being is that sublimation ink turns into a gas when heated up, and it bonds with the polyester fibers. So you end up with a permanent design infused with the material that does not crack, peel, or wash out. If you were to try sublimating on lets say 100% cotton, the ink will not come out vibrant, and it will eventually wash out because the ink does not bond with the cotton fibers.

Next, it is recommended to print out something from your sublimation printer at least once a week. The ink is a lot thicker than regular ink, so it can clog if you let the ink sit for too long. I have learned the hard way when I let my printer sit for a few months, and I had to do a deep clean on the printer settings to get it working again (which wastes the ink).

Finally, you don’t have to have a super expensive sublimation printer to start sublimation printing. I was able to use an Epson EcoTank printer to start sublimation printing. Just a heads up, once you use sublimation ink in your printer, it voids the printers warranty, so Epson will not be able to help you with any trouble shooting with your printer. You will have to start with a brand new printer if you plan to do this because you don’t want to mix regular EcoTank ink with sublimation ink. It can ruin your printer.

There are many great sources on Youtube to learn more about sublimation. I recommend watching Jennifer Maker if you are interested in learning more about sublimation. Here is her Sublimation for Beginners video.

The items I listed below I have purchased for sublimation and recommend to anyone who wants to begin their sublimation journey.

Epson EcoTank ET- 2800
This is the printer I use to sublimation print that was under $300. It’s simple to set up, and you can use the Epson Smart Panel app with your phone

PUNCIA 3-Tier Movable Heat Press Table Foldable Stand with WorkbenchI use my heat press on this work bench. It’s convenient to use because I can move it around easily to where I am working on projects then store it back in my craft corner when I’m finished. I love it because it has the foldable stands on each side to place my supplies on.

EQUTY BAYMERS 2 Rolls 20mm X 33m 108ft Heat Tape, Adhesive Heat Resistant/Transfer Tape

I use this tape to secure my sublimation prints on my projects. It stays on really well when you’re setting your print on projects, and it does not leave a residue behind after its exposed to heat.

Hiippo Sublimation Ink

This ink has worked very well for me. This kit comes with all four colors of ink and a pair of gloves to protect your hands while pouring the ink into the reservoirs. Sublimation ink is thicker than regular ink. It is recommended to print at least once a week to avoid getting clogs.

YRYM HT White Kraft Butcher Paper Roll 18 x 2100 Inch (176 Ft) Food Grade Unbleached Unwaxed Uncoated

I use this butcher paper to protect my heat press and projects from ink transferring onto my matts or bleeding through the fabric. It helps absorb excess ink. It’s recommended to use one piece on top of your project, and if you are working with fabric, stick a piece in between the fabric.

A-SUB Sublimation Paper 8.5x11 Inch 110 Sheets 125g | ONLY Compatible with Sublimation Printer and Sublimation Ink

Another brand of sublimation paper I recommend.

AKEYDIY Professional 5 in 1 Heat Press Machine for t Shirts Digital Heat Press Combo 12" x 15"

This heat press has worked really well for my projects. I have only used the shirt press, but this one also comes with plates for pressing on hats and mugs.

Sublimation paper: HTVRONT Sublimation Paper 8.5 ×14 in. 120 sheets

When you do sublimation printing, you use a special paper for heat pressing the ink onto the fabric. I use this brand for sublimation printing. The ink comes out dull when you first print it, but then becomes vibrant when used under the heat press.

HTVRONT Sublimation Paper for T-Shirts & Mug,150 Sheets 120g 8.5x11 Inch A4 | Smooth Jam-Free & Instant Dry: High Transfer Rate, Vibrant Color Transfer on Polyester Fabrics, No Curl

Another size option from HTVRONT.