Sublimation Pressing Instructions for Garments
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Set Your Heat Press Temperature and Time:
Preheat your heat press to 385-400°F (196-204°C).
Set the timer to 40-60 seconds depending on the thickness of the garment and the manufacturer’s recommendations. -
Prepare Your Garment:
- Place your sublimation-ready garment on the heat press platen.
- Pre-press for 5-10 seconds to remove moisture and wrinkles. This ensures even heat distribution and better results.
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Position Your Sublimation Transfer:
- Place the sublimation transfer design face-down on the garment.
- Use heat-resistant tape to secure the transfer if necessary, preventing any shifting during pressing.
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Cover with Protective Sheet:
- Place a Teflon sheet or parchment paper over the transfer to protect your heat press and the design.
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Press the Transfer:
- Close the heat press and apply medium pressure.
- Press at 385-400°F for 40-60 seconds. Ensure even pressure for consistent results.
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Remove the Transfer:
- Open the heat press and carefully remove the Teflon sheet.
- Peel the sublimation transfer while it is still hot. Sublimation ink transforms into gas at high temperatures, embedding into the fabric for vibrant, permanent designs.
Pro Tips for Sublimation on Garments
- Use High Polyester Content: Sublimation works best on garments with at least 65% polyester. Higher polyester content yields more vibrant results.
- Light-Colored Fabrics Only: Sublimation is ideal for white or light-colored garments, as the ink does not print white.
- Test First: Always test a small design on a sample fabric to fine-tune your heat press settings.
- Protect Your Heat Press: Always use a protective sheet to prevent ink from transferring onto your platen.
Important Notes:
- Sublimation is permanent and works by bonding the ink to the fabric fibers. Ensure your design is final before pressing.
- Incorrect settings or pressing techniques can result in faded or uneven designs. Follow the instructions closely for the best results.
For any questions or support, contact us at:
📧 info@dtftransfersofvirginia.com
We’re here to help make your sublimation projects a success!