Sublimation Printing for Beginners: Step-by-Step Guide
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If you’ve ever seen a custom tumbler, mug, or shirt with vibrant, full-color designs that never peel or fade, chances are it was made using sublimation printing. This beginner-friendly guide will show you exactly how to get started with sublimation — what it is, what you need, and how to create your first project using blanks from WestCoastCraft.ca.
🔥 What Is Sublimation Printing?
Sublimation printing is a digital heat-transfer process where solid dye ink is turned into gas (sublimated) and infused directly into specially coated materials. This creates long-lasting, full-color designs that become part of the product—no peeling, fading, or cracking.
✅ Works best on white or light-colored polyester fabrics
✅ Only works on poly-coated blanks (like our sublimation tumblers)
✅ Perfect for customizing mugs, shirts, signs, keychains, ornaments, and more
🧰 What Supplies Do You Need to Start Sublimating?
Here’s your sublimation starter kit checklist:
| Item | Recommended Product |
|---|---|
| Sublimation Printer | Epson EcoTank or Sawgrass |
| Sublimation Ink | High-quality CMYK sublimation ink |
| Sublimation Paper | TruePix, A-Sub, or TexPrint |
| Heat Press or Mug Press | |
| Sublimation Blanks | Browse 400+ blanks |
| Design Software | Canva, Silhouette Studio, or Photoshop |
🖨️ Step-by-Step: How to Start Sublimation Printing
Step 1: Set Up Your Sublimation Printer
Fill your printer with sublimation ink. If using an Epson EcoTank, do this before printing anything else.
Step 2: Design Your Artwork
Use software like Canva or Photoshop to design your image. Make sure the size matches your blank. Use vibrant colors for best results.
Step 3: Print on Sublimation Paper (Mirror Image!)
Always mirror your image and print on the bright white side of the sublimation paper.
Step 4: Position on Your Sublimation Blank
Tape your design (face-down) on the blank with heat-resistant tape. Use Craftera’s premium blanks for best quality results.
Step 5: Press Using the Correct Time & Temperature
Each blank has its own settings. For example, most tumblers press at 385°F for 60 seconds.
👉 Download our FREE Time & Temp Chart here (insert link when ready)
Step 6: Remove Paper and Reveal Your Design!
Carefully peel off the paper while it's still warm. Your vibrant, permanent design is now ready.
💡 Pro Tip: Start with Easy Projects
If you're just getting started, we recommend these beginner-friendly blanks:
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Sublimation Notebook – Customizable and fast to press
-
11oz Sublimation Mugs – A great entry point with minimal effort
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20 oz skinny Tumblers – High resale value and easy to sub
🎯 Want to Make Money with Sublimation?
Thousands of crafters are turning sublimation into a side hustle. You can sell customized tumblers, mugs, or even teacher gifts at markets, on Etsy, or through your own site.
Check out our Bulk Blanks section to save more and increase your profit margin.
🔁 Final Thoughts: Start Your Sublimation Journey Today
Sublimation is one of the most fun and profitable crafts you can start from home. With the right tools, a little patience, and high-quality blanks from WestCoastCraft.ca, you’ll be customizing mugs, shirts, tumblers, and more in no time.
📌 Don’t forget:
✅ Join our free Craftera community on Facebook
✅ Get our Free Sublimation Cheat Sheet PDF
✅ Browse 400+ sublimation blanks with free shipping