Transferring Sublimation T-Shirts: A Step-By-Step Guide For Beginners

Sublimation is a process that transfers dyes onto different types of fabrics and materials. It involves creating an image or design on a computer or tablet, printing it onto sublimation paper using sublimation ink, and then using a heat press to permanently transfer the design onto the desired surface. This process is unique because it offers low-cost materials and produces high-quality, brightly coloured, and permanent images.

To sublimate a t-shirt, you will need a shirt with a high polyester content (at least 50%-65%), a sublimation printer, sublimation ink, sublimation paper, and a heat press. You will also need protective paper, such as white cardstock and butcher paper, to prevent unwanted ink transfer. Additionally, heat-resistant tape will help secure the design and avoid blurry images.

The process begins by creating or downloading a sublimation design and printing it onto sublimation paper. The paper is then trimmed or gently torn to avoid any unwanted lines transferring to the fabric. The heat press is preheated to a temperature between 385°F and 400°F, and the shirt is lint-rolled and pre-heated to remove wrinkles and moisture. The sublimation design is placed ink-side down on the shirt, secured with heat-resistant tape, and covered with butcher paper. The shirt is then pressed for 45 to 60 seconds, and after cooling, the tape and paper are removed to reveal the final product.

Choosing the right shirt

When it comes to choosing the right shirt for sublimation, the most important factor is the type of material it is made of. Sublimation works best on polyester fabric or polyester blends with a minimum of 50% polyester content. This is because the sublimation process requires the fabric to be able to absorb and retain the dye, and polyester is particularly effective at this due to its synthetic properties.

So, for the best results, opt for a shirt made from 100% polyester. This will ensure your design is as vibrant and long-lasting as possible. However, if you'd prefer a more comfortable option, a blend of 65% polyester and 35% cotton is also suitable for sublimation. This combination will still allow for a reasonably high-quality print while providing a softer feel against the skin.

It's also important to note that sublimation won't work on natural fibres such as cotton or wool, so these materials should be avoided.

When choosing a shirt, it's also worth considering the colour. While sublimation can be done on coloured shirts, the base colour will affect the final print result. For the most accurate representation of your design, it's best to choose a white shirt.

In terms of specific recommendations, the Cricut T-shirt is a good option, made from 95% polyester and 5% spandex. This blend makes the shirt soft, stretchy and comfortable, while the smooth surface allows for even and crisp printing. It also comes in a range of styles, colours and sizes, so you can find the perfect fit.

For a more cost-effective option, the Gildan G640 Softstyle T-Shirt is a popular choice. While it's made from 100% cotton, which isn't ideal for sublimation, the softstyle material still allows for a reasonably vibrant and detailed print.

Finally, when choosing a shirt, consider the fit. A tight-fitting shirt may cause the design to crack or peel, while a loose-fitting shirt may distort the design. So, make sure to select a shirt that fits well and allows for a smooth printing surface.

Preparing your design

Once you're happy with your image, download it and open it in software such as Adobe Acrobat to prepare and print your tiled image. Alternatively, you can use an online tool like Gizmoa. You'll need to adjust the image size to fit your shirt, so input your shirt's dimensions, then upload your file and adjust the width and height accordingly. Remember to lock the aspect ratio to maintain the design's proportions.

After preparing your image, select "Print" from the "File" menu. Ensure your sublimation printer is selected, and choose the "Poster" setting. Set the overlap to "0.2" and check the "Cut Marks" box. This will print multiple sheets of paper, which you'll need to trim and tape together to create your final design.

Before printing, make sure you load your sublimation printer with sublimation ink and paper. Check that the ink and paper are specifically designed for sublimation printing. Also, remember to mirror your design, as it will be transferred onto the shirt in reverse.

Setting up your equipment

Firstly, you'll need to gather the necessary equipment and materials. This includes a printer designed for sublimation printing or a converted inkjet printer, sublimation ink, sublimation paper, a heat press machine, and the item you wish to print on (in this case, a T-shirt). Ensure your T-shirt is made of at least 65% polyester for best results.

Next, set up your workspace in a well-ventilated area. Open your windows and set up a fan to help dissipate the fumes produced during the sublimation process.

Now, let's prepare your printer. Ensure you have the correct sublimation ink installed and load the sublimation paper correctly, following the instructions in your printer manual. The sublimation paper should be loaded with the printable side facing the correct direction. Most sublimation papers have a different colour or text on the non-printable side to help you identify it.

Once your printer is ready, you can move on to setting up your heat press machine. Adjust the settings according to the type of substrate you'll be pressing. For 100% polyester T-shirts, set the temperature to around 385°F to 400°F (196°C to 204°C) and the time for 45 to 60 seconds at medium pressure. If you're using a different type of shirt or press, you may need to experiment with the settings.

Before placing your T-shirt on the heat press, pre-heat it to smooth out any wrinkles and remove moisture. You can use a pressing pillow or a piece of white cardstock inside the shirt to minimise press marks and protect the back layer.

Finally, prepare your design by mirroring it and printing it onto the sublimation paper using your sublimation printer. Remember to trim the paper close to the design or gently tear the edges to prevent any unwanted lines from transferring to your fabric.

With your equipment set up, you're now ready to begin the sublimation process. Place your printed design onto the T-shirt, secure it with heat-resistant tape, and then place a piece of white uncoated butcher paper over it before applying heat.

Applying the transfer

Now that you have your design printed on sublimation paper, you can apply it to your shirt.

First, set your heat press to a temperature between 385°F and 400°F (196°C to 204°C). You will also want to pre-heat your shirt to smooth out any wrinkles and eliminate any moisture. This can be done by placing a piece of butcher paper on your heat press, laying your shirt on top, and pressing for about 10 seconds.

Next, place your sublimation paper design ink-side down on the shirt, lining up any creases. Use heat-resistant tape to secure the design in place to prevent it from shifting during the pressing process. Then, place another piece of butcher paper on top of the shirt. Do not use parchment paper, wax paper, freezer paper, or Teflon paper, as these can trap moisture and produce fuzzy transfers.

Once your heat press has reached the correct temperature, it is time to press your design. If using a traditional heat press, apply light to medium pressure (about 40 PSI) for 45 to 60 seconds. If using an EasyPress, apply light pressure by pressing lightly with one hand. Avoid moving the heat source during the pressing process to prevent ghosting.

After pressing, carefully remove the butcher paper and allow the transfer to cool for a few moments before peeling it off the garment.

And that's it! You now have a beautifully sublimated t-shirt.

Caring for your shirt

Washing

Always wash your sublimation t-shirts inside out, on a gentle cycle, in cold or warm water, and with a mild detergent to keep the design vibrant. Wash with similar colours and avoid using fabric softeners or bleach. If you need to use bleach, only use non-chlorine bleach.

Drying

Air-dry your t-shirt in a cool, dry area to preserve the vibrancy of the colours. If using a tumble dryer, dry on a low setting.

Frequency

The more you wash your sublimation t-shirt, the faster the print will fade, so try not to wash it too often.

Ironing

You can iron your sublimation t-shirt, but only with a cool setting.

Storage

Store your sublimation t-shirts in a cool, dry place, such as a closet or drawer, and away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Try not to fold the shirt when storing it, as this can cause creases in the fabric. Instead, hang the shirt on a hanger or roll it up carefully and place it in a container.

Waiting Period After Sublimation

Wait at least 24 hours, and up to 72 hours if you want an even more durable print, after the sublimation process before washing your t-shirt. This will allow the ink to properly set and bond with the fabric, ensuring a vibrant and smooth design.

Frequently asked questions