Sublimation Pressing Instructions
These times & temperatures are a good place to start, but you may have to adjust due to different heat presses and product quality. Producing quality end products is a matter of suitable substrates, a calibrated heat press, smart color management following manufacturer guidelines, testing and practice!
Ceramic Mugs
- 150-210 seconds
- 350-400° F
- 40 psi (medium)
- Time varies with press. Press into silicon pad. Mugs should be cooled down after transfer paper is removed in either a bucket of warm water or using a cooling plate.
Stainless Steel Tumblers
- 365° F
- 40 psi (medium)
- Time varies with press. If you are doing a full wrap, press for 45 sec. then rotate your tumbler 180 degrees and press a second time for 45 sec.
- If using a toaster oven it’s suggested to bake at 365 for 6 min turning after 3 min.
Polyester Fabric
-
35-45 seconds
- 400 - 410° F
- 204 - 210 C
- 40 psi (medium)
- Pre-press shirt for 3-5 seconds to eliminate moisture.
Polyester with Foam Backing (Koozie / Mousepad)
- 45 seconds
- 400° F
- 204 C
- 40 psi (medium)
Metal
- 45 seconds
- 375°-400° F
- 190 - 204 C
- 40 psi (medium)
- Time varies with metal manufacturer. Place absorbent sheet on bottom of heat press.
Glass or Ceramic Tiles
- 300 - 720 seconds
- 400° F
- 204 C
- 40 psi (medium)
- Time varies depending on tile type and size.
Glass
- 180 - 240 seconds
- 360 - 400° F
- 182 - 204 C
- 40 psi (medium)
- Be careful not to put too much pressure on the glass. This can shatter it. Wear protective gear.
Polyester Linen
- 55 - 65 seconds
- 385 - 425° F
- 196 - 218 C
- 40 psi (medium)
- Peel transfer while hot. Press with substrate facing up and transfer paper on top.
Wood
- 60 seconds
- 400° F
- 204 C
- 40 psi (medium)
- Remove any plastic coating. Press with the transfer on top.