What Is the Sublimation Paper? The Ultimate Guide

Sublimation paper is a specialized paper designed for printing on shirts, mugs, and other sublimation blanks. Both novice and expert printers favor sublimation printing due to its cost-effectiveness and ability to produce vibrant prints.

You've landed on this page for one reason — you're trying to find out what sublimation paper is. If you're a beginner in the sublimation printing industry, our ultimate guide will help you understand the ins and outs of sublimation paper. We're here to assist you every step of the way as you navigate the world of sublimation printing.

What is Sublimation Paper?

First of all, you need to know what sublimation paper is, and we are here to explain it. Sublimation paper is a type of specialty paper used in the sublimation printing process. It serves as the medium for transferring designs onto various substrates. This process involves printing a design onto the sublimation paper using sublimation ink, and then applying heat and pressure to transfer the design from the paper to the final product, such as shirts, mugs, and other sublimation blanks.

How Do You Print On Sublimation Paper?

To print on a sublimation printer, you’ll need an inkjet printer that contains dye sublimation ink. Regular printer ink won’t work for sublimation printing. You also can’t print on regular printing paper using dye sublimation ink. In a nutshell, for sublimation printing, you’ll need sublimation paper and an inkjet printer with sublimation ink.

How Does The Sublimation Process Work?

The sublimation process is straightforward. Suppose you have a sublimation paper printed with a design using dye sublimation ink from Joto Imaging Supplies. You’re about to press it onto a polyester t-shirt using a heat press machine. What happens is that the sublimation ink turns into gas. Simultaneously, the fabric of the polyester shirt opens up and absorbs the ink. Once you’re done pressing the shirt and it cools off, the gaseous ink that transferred to the fabric turns solid. This means the ink is permanently printed on the merchandise.

We at Joto Imaging Supplies provide everything you need for successful sublimation printing, ensuring vibrant, long-lasting results. Whether you're a beginner or a professional, we've got you covered with high-quality sublimation ink and paper, along with top-notch heat press machines. Let us help you achieve the best prints for your projects!

You can design customized apparel such as t-shirts and hoodies, perfect for family reunions, company logos, or unique artwork. It’s also ideal for creating personalized sportswear. In home decor, you can print unique designs on pillowcases, cushions, and blankets, adding a personal touch to your living space. For accessories, consider designing tote bags and hats with custom graphics and slogans. Sublimation paper is also great for creating custom drinkware, including mugs, tumblers, and water bottles, which make excellent gifts or promotional items.

Additionally, you can personalize office supplies like mouse pads and notebooks, or create unique phone and device cases. Seasonal items like Christmas ornaments and Easter decorations, as well as various craft projects, can be brought to life with vibrant, detailed prints.

Several Sublimation Blanks Available In The Market Now Are:

• Mouse Pads
• Tumblers
• Mugs
• Keychains
• Tote Bags
• Cup Coasters
• Pillow Covers
• Jigsaw Puzzles
• Pens
• Caps
• Masks

We can’t sublimate on random merchandise; it must be a ‘sublimation blank’ because it has a special polymer coating wherein the dye sublimation ink will bond. For instance, we can’t expect to sublimate on a regular mug bought at a craft store. It must be a sublimation mug. All of these sublimation blanks come in white colors.

What Do I Need For Sublimation Printing?

As we mentioned, for sublimation printing, you should have sublimation paper and a sublimation printer with dye sublimation ink. We also suggest investing in a heat press machine, as each type serves a specific purpose.

Different Kinds Of Heat Presses Available:

• Flat Heat Press Machine: Available in swing type or clamshell type, this machine is recommended for t-shirts, tote bags, jigsaw puzzles, pillowcases, mouse pads, and other flat surfaced items.
• Tumbler Heat Press Machine: Ideal for creating custom designs on tumblers.
• Cap Press Machine: Perfect for sublimating designs onto caps.
• Mug Press Machine: Designed specifically for sublimating mugs.
• Mini Heat Press Machine: Not recommended for sublimation printing, but useful for small and quick projects.

How to Sublimate Merchandise

• First, gather your materials: a sublimation printer with dye sublimation ink, sublimation paper, a heat press machine, sublimation blanks, heat-resistant tape, and gloves.
• Create or choose a design and print it on sublimation paper, ensuring it is mirrored.
• Clean the sublimation blank and secure the printed design face down on it with heat-resistant tape.
• Choose the appropriate heat press machine for your item. Joto Imaging Supplies offers various types, including flat heat presses for t-shirts and tote bags, tumbler heat presses, cap presses, mug presses, and mini heat presses.
• Set the heat press to the recommended temperature and time, preheat it, and press the item with the design.
• Use heat-resistant gloves to remove the item and let it cool completely before removing the paper and tape.
• Inspect your finished product to ensure quality.

When deciding between sublimation and heat transfer paper, it's essential to understand the key differences and advantages of each method to determine which is better for your specific needs.

Sublimation Printing

Process: Sublimation involves printing your design onto special sublimation paper using sublimation ink. The printed design is then transferred to a polyester-coated or polyester blend substrate through a heat press.

Advantages:

• Durability: Sublimated designs become part of the fabric or substrate, making them highly durable and resistant to fading, cracking, or peeling.
• Quality: Produces vibrant, full-color designs with photographic quality.
• Soft Feel: The design does not add any additional layer, keeping the fabric's softness and breathability intact.
• Longevity: Ideal for items that require frequent washing, as the designs maintain their quality over time.

Limitations:

• Material Compatibility: Only works on polyester fabrics or polymer-coated items.
• Color Limitation: Works best on white or light-colored substrates, as sublimation ink is transparent and won't show up well on dark colors.

Heat Transfer Paper

Process: Heat transfer involves printing your design onto heat transfer paper with regular inkjet or laser printers. The design is then transferred to the substrate using a heat press or an iron.

Advantages:

• Versatility: Can be used on a variety of materials, including cotton, polyester, and blends.
• Color Flexibility: Available for both light and dark fabrics, allowing for a broader range of applications.
• Ease of Use: Simpler process that can be done with standard printers and an iron, making it accessible for beginners and home use.

Limitations:

• Durability: Designs may fade, crack, or peel over time, especially with frequent washing.
• Feel: Adds a layer on top of the fabric, which may result in a heavier or less breathable feel.
• Quality: May not achieve the same level of vibrancy and photographic quality as sublimation.

FAQs

Can I use a regular printer for sublimation printing?

Yes, you can use a regular inkjet printer for sublimation printing by using sublimation ink. It may not provide the best results, but it is possible to adapt it for sublimation printing.

How do I prevent ghosting during sublimation?

Make sure to remove the sublimation paper right after pressing, and double-check that the design hasn’t shifted during the process to prevent ghosting.