Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid In Sublimation

As the UK's leading sublimation blanks wholesaler, we've seen it all when it comes to sublimation printing. We've worked with countless customers, from hobbyists to professional print shops, and we've noticed a few common pitfalls that can really trip up even the most experienced sublimation enthusiasts.

Sublimation printing is a fantastic technology that allows you to create vibrant, long-lasting designs on a wide variety of substrates. However, it's not as simple as just hitting "print" and expecting perfect results every time. There are a number of factors that need to be carefully considered and managed to ensure a successful sublimation project.

In this blog post, we're going to dive into the top 10 mistakes we see people make when it comes to sublimation printing, and provide some tips on how to avoid them. Whether you're new to the world of sublimation or a seasoned pro, these insights will help you take your prints to the next level. Learn from our experimenting so you can focus on creating beautiful products every time!

1. Using Incorrect Sublimation Paper

One of the most common mistakes we see is people using the wrong type of sublimation paper for their project. Not all sublimation papers are created equal, and using the wrong one can lead to all sorts of issues, from poor ink transfer to ghosting and bleed-through.

Make sure you're using a high-quality sublimation paper that's specifically designed for the type of substrate you're printing on. We offer a wide range of sublimation papers to suit different materials, from polyester fabrics to ceramic mugs and metal sheets.

2. Neglecting to Mirror Images Before Printing

Another crucial step that's often overlooked is mirroring your images before printing. Sublimation printing works by transferring the ink from the paper to the substrate, so the image needs to be flipped horizontally to ensure it ends up the right way around on the final product.

Forgetting this simple step can result in your designs being printed in reverse, which is a surefire way to ruin your project. Make sure to always mirror your images before sending them to the printer. The only time you don't need to mirror items is when you are applying the image to the 'back' of an item which you will then see through the front such as many of our glass sublimation blanks such as coasters, cutting boards, clocks and ornaments.

3. Failing to Pre-Press Garments or Substrates

Pre-pressing your garments or substrates is an essential step in the sublimation process. This helps to remove any moisture or wrinkles, and ensures that the surface is smooth and ready to receive the sublimation ink.

Skipping this step can lead to all sorts of issues, from poor ink transfer to uneven results. Always make sure to pre-press your items before printing, following the recommended time and temperature settings for the specific material.

4. Incorrect Temperature or Pressure Settings

Speaking of temperature and pressure, getting these settings right is crucial for successful sublimation printing. If the temperature is too low, the ink won't transfer properly, and if it's too high, you risk damaging the substrate or 'burning' the image. Burning the ink or paper normally shows up when you see black colours coming out as brown or with a reddish tinge. The paper will also be yellower than normal.

Similarly, the pressure you apply during the transfer process needs to be just right. Too much pressure can cause lines to appear where the sublimation paper has been pressing into the item (especially textiles), while too little pressure won't allow the ink to fully transfer, leaving faded or inconsistent prints.

Make sure to always do a test print particularly when trying out new products to ensure you've got the settings dialed in. Of course you are welcome to contact us before you start so we can best advise!

5. Mishandling Transfer Paper After Printing

Once you've printed your design onto the sublimation paper, it's important to handle it with care. Avoid touching the printed side, as the ink can easily smudge or transfer onto your fingers even with fast-drying papers.

Also, be sure to keep the paper flat and avoid folding or creasing it, as this can also affect the final print quality. If you need to store the printed paper before transferring it, make sure to keep it in a clean, dry environment.

6. Overlooking Color Management

Proper colour management is essential for achieving vibrant, accurate colours in your sublimation prints. This involves calibrating your monitor, printer, and any other equipment involved in the process to ensure consistent colour output.

Failing to address colour management can lead to prints that look dull, washed out, or completely off-brand. Take the time to set up a colour-managed workflow, and don't be afraid to invest in a good colour calibration tool. You can also ensure you have installed the correct colour profile from the manufacturer of the sublimation ink that you are using.

7. Ignoring the Importance of Substrate Quality

The quality of the substrate you're printing on can have a huge impact on the final result. Cheap, low-quality materials may seem like a bargain, but they can often lead to issues like poor ink adhesion, fading, or even complete failure of the print.

Always use high-quality, sublimation-friendly substrates from a reputable supplier. This will ensure that your prints look their best and last for years to come.

8. Improper Cleaning of Equipment

Keeping your sublimation equipment clean and well-maintained is crucial for consistent, high-quality prints. Over time, ink residue and other contaminants can build up on your printer heads, heat press, and other components, leading to all sorts of problems.

Make sure to follow the manufacturer's recommended cleaning and maintenance procedures, and don't be afraid to invest in regular professional servicing if needed.

9. Rushing the Cooling Process

After transferring your design to the substrate, it's important to allow the item to cool completely before handling or removing it from the heat press. Rushing this step can cause the ink to smear or distort, ruining your hard work.

Be patient and let the item cool fully, following the recommended cooling times for the specific material. This will ensure that the ink has fully set and your design looks its best.

10. Not Addressing Ghosting Issues

Ghosting, where a faint outline of a previous design appears on the substrate, is a common problem in sublimation printing. This can happen for a variety of reasons, from incorrect temperature settings to the sublimation paper moving during pressing.

This is a common challenge that many sublimation crafters encounter early on. To prevent this, ensure the wrap is tightly secured around the item, using plenty of tape and eliminating any air bubbles or gaps beneath the design. After pressing, avoid moving the tumbler any more than necessary, and resist the urge to remove the sublimation paper too soon—let it cool completely before removing.

Tips for Success in Sublimation Printing

Now that we've covered the top 10 mistakes to avoid, here are a few additional tips to help you achieve success in your sublimation printing endeavors:

Proper Equipment Maintenance

Regularly cleaning and maintaining your sublimation equipment is crucial for consistent, high-quality results. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations and don't be afraid to invest in professional servicing if needed.

Consistent Testing and Quality Control

Make a habit of doing test prints and thoroughly inspecting your results before moving on to production. This will help you identify and address any issues early on, saving you time and money in the long run.

Continuous Learning and Skill Improvement

The world of sublimation printing is constantly evolving, with new techniques, materials, and equipment being introduced all the time. Stay curious, keep learning, and don't be afraid to experiment and try new things and to ask us for help!

Conclusion

Sublimation printing is a powerful and versatile technology, but it's not without its challenges. By being aware of the common pitfalls and taking the time to master the fundamentals, you can ensure that your sublimation projects are a success, every time.

At Longforte, we're passionate about helping our customers achieve their sublimation goals. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, we're here to provide the high-quality products, expert guidance, and unwavering support you need to take your prints to the next level.

So what are you waiting for? Start exploring the world of sublimation and let your creativity shine!