Sublimation Artwork and Pressing Guide

Sublimation creates vibrant, permanent designs by turning ink into gas and bonding it with compatible polyester fibers or specially coated surfaces. Correct artwork, materials, temperature, time, and pressure are essential for successful results.

Sublimation Artwork Requirements

For the best print quality, upload your artwork as a high-resolution PNG file, preferably at 300 DPI and at the exact size you want printed.

Your artwork should be:

  • Saved in PNG format

  • Created at 300 DPI

  • Sized correctly before uploading

  • Saved in RGB or sRGB color mode

  • Clear, sharp, and free from pixelation

  • Free from unwanted backgrounds

Avoid screenshots, blurry images, and small graphics enlarged beyond their original size.

Upload your artwork in its normal, readable orientation unless the product page specifically requests mirrored artwork. The printed sublimation transfer should appear mirrored before pressing so the finished design displays correctly.

Sublimation Material Requirements

Sublimation works best on:

  • White or light-colored polyester apparel

  • High-polyester fabric blends

  • Sublimation-coated mugs and tumblers

  • Sublimation-ready metal, ceramic, or hardboard blanks

  • Other specially coated sublimation products

Sublimation does not print white ink. Any white areas in your design will show the color of the product. It is generally unsuitable for dark garments, regular cotton apparel, or products without a sublimation coating.

General Pressing Reference

Always follow the instructions supplied by the manufacturer of your blank. The following settings are general starting points only.

Product Temperature Time Pressure
Polyester Apparel 385–400°F 45–60 seconds Medium
Mousepads or Neoprene 385–400°F 45–60 seconds Medium
Ceramic Mugs 380–400°F 150–240 seconds Medium
Coated Hard Surfaces 385–400°F 45–60 seconds Medium

Actual settings may vary based on the blank, coating, press, paper, ink, and equipment.

Pressing Instructions

1. Prepare the Product

Make sure the item is clean, dry, and approved for sublimation. For apparel, use a lint roller to remove fibers that could create unwanted blue or dark marks.

2. Pre-Press

Pre-press apparel for 3–5 seconds to remove moisture and wrinkles. Allow any steam to escape before positioning the transfer.

3. Position the Transfer

Place the printed side of the sublimation paper directly against the product. Secure it with heat-resistant tape to prevent movement and ghosting.

4. Protect the Heat Press

Place clean butcher paper above and below the product. Do not reuse butcher paper because transferred ink may stain another item.

5. Press the Product

Apply the manufacturer-recommended temperature, time, and pressure. Open the press carefully when the pressing cycle is complete.

6. Remove the Transfer

Remove the sublimation paper immediately and carefully unless the blank manufacturer instructs otherwise. Avoid shifting the paper across the hot surface because this can create a shadow or ghost image.

Apparel Care Instructions

For better durability:

  • Turn the garment inside out

  • Wash in cold or warm water

  • Use mild detergent

  • Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals

  • Tumble dry on low or hang dry

  • Do not iron directly over the design

Important Notice

Every sublimation blank may require different pressing settings. Always test an unfamiliar product before completing a large order. TE Custom Designs is not responsible for damage caused by incompatible blanks, incorrect pressing settings, or improper application.