What Do You Need for Sublimation Printing

So you’ve done your research about what sublimation is and the many options of sublimation blanks you can choose from. Whether you’re a business or a DIY enthusiast, here’s a look at what do you need for sublimation:

1. Sublimation printer: This device is essential for carrying out the majority of the sublimation printing tasks.  

2. Computer and software: You’ll require a computer along with specialized printing software to manage your sublimation printer.  

3. Ink and paper: You'll also need the appropriate ink and transfer paper for the printing process.  

4. Heat press: A heat press is necessary for applying heat and pressure during sublimation.  

6. Sublimation blanks: These are the items you’ll be printing on; you can explore high-quality sublimation apparel from Bubbakins Blanks.
7. Other items: You may require additional things like thermal tape, transfer gloves, silicone sheets, foam pillows, etc.   

What Is Sublimation Printing? How Does Sublimation Work? 

Sublimation printing is a digital technique that applies a design to a substrate through a combination of heat, pressure, and duration. Here’s how it works:  

1. A design is printed onto specialized transfer paper using sublimation inks.  
2. The printed paper is then positioned on the material.  
3. A heat press is used to apply heat to the material.  
4. The heat, combined with pressure and time, converts the inks into gas, allowing the material to absorb them.  

If you’re interested to learn more about what do you need to make sublimation shirts, keep reading! 

Essential Equipment for Sublimation Printing 

You've gathered all the details about sublimation and the various sublimation blanks available. Whether you're running a business or diving into DIY projects, here’s what you’ll need for the sublimation process:

1. Sublimation printer: This is crucial for executing most of the printing tasks.

2. Computer and software: A computer and dedicated printing software are essential to operate your sublimation printer effectively.

3. Heat press: This tool is vital for applying heat and pressure during the sublimation process.

4. Ink and paper: Make sure to have the correct sublimation ink and transfer paper for your projects.

5. Sublimation blanks: These are the surfaces you’ll be customizing; consider top-notch sublimation apparel from Bubbakins Blanks.

Optional but Useful Equipment 

Besides the essential items mentioned earlier, there are several other supplies that play an important role in the printing process. These include:

- Spray adhesive: Helps keep the paper in place while printing.  

- Transfer gloves: Protect your hands from both heat and ink during printing.  

- Foam pillows: Shield your fabric items from direct heat from the heat press.  

- Thermal tape: Another option to secure the paper during printing, serving as an alternative to spray adhesive.  

- Silicone cover sheets: Prevent ink from smudging on your heat-press during the process.

Sublimation Blanks: What to Print On

If you’ve reached this point, you must be well aware of what sublimation is and how printing works. Now, let’s answer the question, What do I need for sublimation shirts?

When you’re looking for items to print on, there are many things to choose from: apparel for adults, teens, and infants.

Here’s what Bubbakins Blanks offers:

 - Sublimation t-shirts for adults: These are available in sizes small to extra-large; you can choose from 24 colors.

- Sublimation sweatshirts for adults: These come in small to 2X sizes and five color options.

-  Blank apparel for toddlers: You can pick from rompers, half- and full-sleeve t-shirts, sweatshirts, ruffle and peplum shirts, and more.

- Sublimation apparel for infants: We offer rompers, sweatshirt rompers, sweatshirts, t-shirts, and more.

- Blank apparel for youth: Take your pick from multiple styles and colors in sweatshirts and t-shirts.  

Preparing for Sublimation Printing 

To get ready for sublimation printing, follow these steps:

1. Research well: Understand the basics of sublimation printing and identify the equipment you'll need.  
2. Select a printer: You can either purchase a printer designed for sublimation or convert an existing one. Pick one depending on your budget, needs, and level of skills.  
3. Design prep: Use high-quality images with a minimum resolution of 300 dpi. Save your files in Adobe RGB and ensure the design size matches the final product dimensions.  
4. Material prep: Ensure the surface of your material is ready for proper ink adhesion; otherwise, colors might appear faded or uneven.  

- Pick the right ink: Use ink compatible with your print head, ensuring smooth flow to prevent clogs. Ensure the ink particle size avoids ghosting or smudging.  

- Practice: Begin with smaller projects to familiarize yourself with the process and refine your skills.

Sublimation Printing Process: Step-by-Step

The sublimation process involves several steps and best practices. Let’s look at each one in detail below, so you can create stunning custom designs for your project and customers:  

Design Creation

Whether you are an online store and want to offer product customization or a big business, using product design software is ideal. Before you can go ahead with the printing, make sure your designs are ready on the software. Sublimation printing is perfect for producing high-quality images with great clarity and sharpness. However, the final printed product may slightly differ in color saturation and sharpness compared to the digital file.

Printer Setup

Next, fill the printer with sublimation ink and ensure the printhead is clean. Read the instructions on the printer manual to ensure you have set it up correctly.  

Transferring the Design 

Place the sublimation paper into the printer with the bright side facing up. Flip the image on your computer so it prints in reverse, ensuring proper transfer. 

Heat Press Operation 

Use a heat press to apply heat and pressure at approximately 230°C. This process transforms the ink into gas, which penetrates the material’s fibers. The gas bonds with the fibers on a molecular level, resulting in a permanent and vibrant print.

Troubleshooting Common Issues 

Like any printing process, sublimation also involves common challenges. You may face these if you are planning to print your own designs soon, so it’s best to be prepared:

1. Ghosting: A faint, second image next to the main one, caused by paper shifting during pressing. To prevent this, secure the paper with heat-resistant tape.
2. Dull Prints: Ensure you're printing on the correct side of the sublimation paper (usually the bright white side).
3. Faded Colors: This happens due to incorrect paper, temperature, or pressure settings.
4. Incorrect Hues: Use color correction software with your inks.
5. Small Dots: Caused by moisture; pre-press the item or surface to remove it.

Additional issues include nozzle clogging, pinwheels, and incomplete transfers. 

Conclusion

To sum it up, sublimation printing offers a vibrant, durable method for creating custom designs on various substrates. To get started, you’ll need essential equipment like a sublimation printer, compatible ink, transfer paper, and a heat press. Additionally, you must invest in high-quality sublimation blanks—available at Bubbakins Blanks—and consider optional items such as thermal tape and silicone sheets for a smooth experience. Preparing the substrate and practicing with smaller projects can help you avoid common challenges like ghosting or color fading, ensuring a successful sublimation process every time.