Sublimation equipment allows you to print on many different types of materials and items. Making a customized coffee tumbler or creating custom-made mugs is not only great fun but can also be a great business endeavor as well. If you want to create your own personalized travel mugs, there are a few things you need to know first. This quick guide will provide you with some basic information you need to get started with sublimation printing.
Understanding Sublimation
Sublimation is a type of printing that can be used to customize coffee mugs, travel cups, and tumblers. In order to create these items, it is important that you have sublimation mugs and cups first. These are specially designed for printing. They have a special coating and are often made with a glazed ceramic surface. This surface is made special so that sublimation ink and prints will adhere to it properly.
Equipment and Materials
To get started with sublimation printing, you will need certain equipment and materials.
- Sublimation printer
- Mug press machine
- Sublimation mugs, cups, or tumblers
- Sublimation ink
- Heat resistant tape
- Sublimation transfer paper
Graphics and Pictures
Once you have the proper equipment and materials, you will need to choose graphics or images for your prints. The fun part about sublimation printing is that you can pretty much use any image you want. This can include photographs, print fonts, drawings, custom-designed images, stock images, and really any type of image.
The only limitation would be that you need to make sure the image will look right with the rounded sides of a mug.
Sublimation Process
Here is a quick explanation of the sublimation process.
- Print image. You will print your chosen image on sublimation transfer paper.
- Trim paper. Cut the paper according to the recommended dimensions to wrap the paper around the mug. Secure the image with heat-resistant tape.
- Place the mug in the mug heat press. Once the image is placed properly, you are ready to put your mug in the machine. This will begin the sublimation process.
Ways To Use Sublimation
Sublimation printing can be used for many different purposes.
- Home business. Many people use sublimation printing and screen printing to create an at-home business opportunity. This is a great way to express your creativity and make a little money at the same time. People love the option of custom-made gifts that feature their kids, pets, and loved ones.
- Promotional items. You can also use these techniques to create promotional items for a business, school, church, or other organization.
- Just for fun. You can do sublimation printing just for fun, too. This is a great hobby that allows you the opportunity to express your creativity and make beautiful items for yourself and those you love.