Beginner’s Guide to Sublimation Printing
Everything you need to know to get started with sublimation printing.
What is Sublimation Printing?
Sublimation is a printing process that uses heat to transfer dye onto materials like polyester fabric, ceramic mugs, and specially-coated items. The dye becomes part of the material itself, creating vibrant, permanent, professional-quality prints that won’t crack, peel, or wash away.
What You Need to Get Started
1. Sublimation Printer
Entry-level: Epson EcoTank ET-2800 or ET-4800. These can be converted to sublimation. Must use sublimation ink, not regular ink.
2. Sublimation Ink
Special ink that turns to gas when heated. Brands: Hiipoo, Printers Jack, A-SUB. Must match your printer model.
3. Sublimation Paper
Specially coated paper to hold sublimation ink. A-SUB and Koala are popular brands. Get 8.5×11″ for standard projects.
4. Heat Press
15×15″ heat press is standard for beginners. Mug press for mugs. Cricut Mug Press or dedicated mug heat press.
5. Blank Substrates
Polyester items or polymer-coated products. Mugs, t-shirts (100% polyester or poly-blend), tumblers, mouse pads, coasters.
6. Heat-Resistant Tape
To secure paper to substrate during pressing. Regular tape will melt!
The Sublimation Process Step-by-Step
From design to finished product
Prepare Your Design
Use our PNG files at 300 DPI. Size to fit your substrate. Important: Mirror your image before printing!
Print on Sublimation Paper
Load sublimation paper. Print with sublimation ink. Let dry 5-10 minutes. Handle carefully to avoid smudging.
Prepare Substrate
Clean surface. Pre-press to remove moisture. Position design face-down on substrate. Secure with heat-resistant tape.
Apply Heat
Set temperature (usually 375-400°F). Press for recommended time (usually 60 seconds). Apply firm, even pressure.
Remove and Cool
Carefully remove from press (it’s hot!). Let cool completely. Peel paper away. Admire your vibrant, permanent print!
What Can You Sublimate?
Apparel
T-shirts (100% polyester or 65%+ poly blend), hoodies, athletic wear, socks, hats
Drinkware
Ceramic mugs, tumblers, water bottles (with polymer coating)
Home Goods
Coasters, mouse pads, puzzles, ornaments, keychains, phone cases
Other Items
Tote bags (polyester), metal sheets, tiles, laptop skins
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
Forgetting to Mirror the Image
Problem: Text and designs appear backwards on final product.
Solution: Always flip/mirror your design before printing!
Using Regular Ink or Paper
Problem: Design won’t transfer or colors are wrong.
Solution: Must use sublimation ink AND sublimation paper. Both are required!
Wrong Temperature or Time
Problem: Faded colors, incomplete transfer, or scorching.
Solution: Follow recommended temp/time for your substrate. Usually 375-400°F for 60 seconds.
Trying to Sublimate Cotton
Problem: Design doesn’t transfer or is very faint.
Solution: Sublimation only works on polyester or polymer-coated items. Use 100% polyester or high poly-blend (65%+ polyester).
Not Removing Moisture
Problem: Blurry or splotchy transfers.
Solution: Pre-press substrates for 5 seconds to remove moisture before adding design.
Pro Tips for Success
Test First
Always do a test press on scrap material before making your final product.
Use Butcher Paper
Protect your press and prevent blowout by covering with butcher paper.
Bright Colors Pop
Light colored substrates show colors best. White polyester gives brightest results.
Keep Records
Write down temp/time settings that work for each substrate type.
Ready to Start Sublimating?
Browse our PNG designs perfect for sublimation printing!
Shop Sublimation Designs