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Sublimation Printing Tips, Tricks, and Hacks!

Home | Sublimation Printing | What is Sublimation Paper?

What is Sublimation Paper?

Sublimation Printing

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Table of contents

  1. What is Sublimation Paper?
    1. What is sublimation paper made of?
      1. The Best Sublimation Paper in 2022.
      2. Interesting things to Know About Sublimation Paper 
        1. Do you print on the white side or the pink side of Sublimation Paper?
          1. What is Sublimation Transfer Paper?
        2. How many uses can you get out of a sublimation transfer?
          1. What is blowout paper in Sublimation?
            1. How to Use Sublimation Paper
              1. Is sublimation paper the same as the transfer paper?
                1. What is sublimation paper is subli?
                  1. Different Brands of Sublimation Paper
                    1. How does sublimation paper work?
                      1. If you haven’t Sublimated before, here is a description of the Sublimation process.
                        1. Why do you need to tape down your design?

                          Take the guess work out of your sublimation projects!

                          Check out ALL of our Sublimation Resources NOW!

                          Buy Today!
                          Shop Sublimation Supplies today
                          Want the BEST Sublimation Paper? A-Sub Sublimation Paper is the perfect sublimation paper and we have an exclusive coupon code to help you save on your Sublimation Paper. CDye12

                          What is Sublimation Paper?

                          Sublimation Paper by definition (my own of course) is a unique printing paper that both absorbs, retains as well as releases sublimation ink. But then, when the ink is pressed onto a substrate (blank surface). The ink is released onto the blank, which allows you to sublimate.

                          Must have Sublimation Products

                          Getting started in Sublimation Printing takes a lot of time and effort. However, with the following products you will be able to learn more about Sublimation and get organized at the same time. From time to temperature charts, to pricing your products. We have you covered!

                          A Beginner’s Guide to Sublimation -Pick up a copy of the Sublimation Book A Beginner’s Guide to Sublimation for only $14.99 for a limited time.

                          Blank Time and Temperature Chart -Designed for you to keep track of times and temperatures for your heat press

                          Time and Temperature Chart -Extensive Time and Temperature Chart with over 100 items listed.

                          Sublimation Color Chart-PDF download of a Sublimation Color Chart

                          Sublimation Glossary -Covers all of the terms and acronyms used in Sublimation.

                          The Sublimation 101 Guide Book is the ultimate resource to get you started on your Sublimation Journey.

                          Sublimation Pricing Calculator -Takes the guessing out of pricing your finished products and calculates it all for you.

                          Sublimation Product Care Cards– Easy to print care cards to give to your customers so they know how to care for their products.

                          Sublimation Management System -This binder system includes 20+ pages to download and print out to help keep you organized. The Sublimation Management System is a binder is a download that you can track things in, ex. free font sites, favorite fonts, favorite font pairings, sublimation printer settings, Order tracking sheet and many other pages. I took my system and adapted it for others to implement.

                          Sublimation Business Plan PDF-The Sublimation Business Plan is essentially a Business Plan that you can fill out to take to the bank to borrow money and or plan your business. Included in that is 15 pages with things such as Executive Summary, products you will sell, Tag lines and so forth. It has a page that includes everything you should list, then a blank one for you to fill out.

                          1 on 1 Time

                          If you are stuck and need help, book me to help get you unstuck. 30 minute blocks only, scheduled to fit both of our schedules. Only 5 Spots a month are available so book today!

                          ​

                          Buy the best sublimation paper now

                          Did you know there are other types of Sublimation Paper? Check out the Extensive Sublimation Glossary for an even more in-depth response to the definition of Sublimation Paper. 

                          1. Sublimation Paper- a unique printing paper that both absorbs, retains as well as releases sublimation ink. But then, when the ink is pressed onto a substrate (blank surface). The ink is released onto the blank, which allows you to sublimate. 
                          2. High Release Sublimation Paper
                          3. Hybrid Sublimation Paper
                          4. A-Sub Sublimation Paper- (Simply a Brand name of paper) A-Sub Sublimation Paper is the perfect sublimation paper and we have an exclusive coupon code to help you save on your Sublimation Paper. CDye12
                          5. Low Release Sublimation Paper or Standard Sublimation Paper

                          All of the above are different types of Sublimation Paper. Now, we are going to cover some Frequently Asked Questions about Sublimation Paper.

                          Need help with time and temperature for your Sublimation items? You are in the right place, grab the Time and Temperature Chart today!

                          What is sublimation paper made of?


                          Paper and a special coating that makes it Sublimation Paper.

                          The Best Sublimation Paper in 2022.

                          The “best sublimation paper” is an opinion answer. However, it has been my experience that the BEST Sublimation Paper is the paper that you use and love.

                          This is my first choice for the best sublimation paper in 2022 You can see all my recommendations on my Amazon Influencer page.

                          Advice

                          Here are my top Sublimation Papers.

                          Interesting things to Know About Sublimation Paper 

                          A-Sub paper is probably my favorite because it allows the ink to be “held” in the paper and transfers beautifully. It doesn’t crease easily, and there are NO wheel marks which is a HUGE perk, in my opinion.

                          Best Sublimation Paper? It's a matter of opinion.

                          Printer’s Jack Sublimation Paper is the paper choice that I started with and will still use today. It has excellent color retention and release. I LOVE that it is always available on Amazon and is usually quickly delivered if you are in a pinch. It has a high transfer rate, and I’ve made some fantastic products using it.

                          Is Printer Jacks Sublimation Paper good?

                          There are several types of Sublimation Paper and by types I mean brands. 🙂

                          What side do you print on Sublimation paper? Sublimation Tips

                          Do you print on the white side or the pink side of Sublimation Paper?

                          White

                          White. If using a tray, pink side up. If using the rear feed, white side up.

                          The pink side usually causes some smearing issues.

                          What is Sublimation Transfer Paper?

                          What is the difference between sublimation paper and transfer paper? Sublimation is a process where the ink becomes part of the fabric like a tattoo on the skin. The transfer paper adds a layer on top of the garment. Sublimation Paper and Transfer Paper are not the same thing but can be confusing.

                          Warning

                          Does Sublimation Paper Expire?

                          Yes, both Sublimation Ink and Sublimation Paper expire. However, if you store it in a cool place with low humidity, the shelf life of paper is about a year.

                          Anything past one year from the date of purchase would be considered expired and will need to be replaced, especially if it has been exposed to moisture. Another way to test it is to see if it causes any transfer problems on a scrap substrate.

                          Can I use any image for Sublimation? Where do I find the RIGHT Images for Sublimation?

                          How many uses can you get out of a sublimation transfer?

                          Sublimation paper is only used one time. It can’t be used again after pressing the print. There are ways to reuse sublimation paper such as using it for packing paper.

                          How to tell a customer what Sublimation is?
                          Think of Sublimation like hair dye. You can’t put blonde dye on black hair.
                          Must have Sublimation Products

                          Getting started in Sublimation Printing takes a lot of time and effort. However, with the following products you will be able to learn more about Sublimation and get organized at the same time. From time to temperature charts, to pricing your products. We have you covered!

                          A Beginner’s Guide to Sublimation -Pick up a copy of the Sublimation Book A Beginner’s Guide to Sublimation for only $14.99 for a limited time.

                          Blank Time and Temperature Chart -Designed for you to keep track of times and temperatures for your heat press

                          Time and Temperature Chart -Extensive Time and Temperature Chart with over 100 items listed.

                          Sublimation Color Chart-PDF download of a Sublimation Color Chart

                          Sublimation Glossary -Covers all of the terms and acronyms used in Sublimation.

                          The Sublimation 101 Guide Book is the ultimate resource to get you started on your Sublimation Journey.

                          Sublimation Pricing Calculator -Takes the guessing out of pricing your finished products and calculates it all for you.

                          Sublimation Product Care Cards– Easy to print care cards to give to your customers so they know how to care for their products.

                          Sublimation Management System -This binder system includes 20+ pages to download and print out to help keep you organized. The Sublimation Management System is a binder is a download that you can track things in, ex. free font sites, favorite fonts, favorite font pairings, sublimation printer settings, Order tracking sheet and many other pages. I took my system and adapted it for others to implement.

                          Sublimation Business Plan PDF-The Sublimation Business Plan is essentially a Business Plan that you can fill out to take to the bank to borrow money and or plan your business. Included in that is 15 pages with things such as Executive Summary, products you will sell, Tag lines and so forth. It has a page that includes everything you should list, then a blank one for you to fill out.

                          1 on 1 Time

                          If you are stuck and need help, book me to help get you unstuck. 30 minute blocks only, scheduled to fit both of our schedules. Only 5 Spots a month are available so book today!

                          ​

                          What is blowout paper in Sublimation?

                          The protective paper used in Sublimation is called blowout paper. You can also use butcher paper, but NEVER use Teflon when Sublimating.

                          What is sublimation paper used for?
                          It is used to apply images to a blank substrate.

                          What do 105 g and 125g mean on sublimation paper?
                          The thickness of the material 105 g is the thinnest, 120 is the “middle,” and 125 g is the thickest.
                          The easiest explanation is less weight for lighter sublimations. The heavier the paper, the higher the color saturation.

                          What is the difference between  A-Sub 120 and A-Sub 125? Which is best? 

                          It depends on the project you are working on.

                          What Is The Difference Between Sublimation Paper and Copy Paper?

                          Sublimation paper has a special coating on the paper that helps the ink transfer in the sublimating process. Regular copy paper doesn’t have that coating. The color brightness will be vastly different as will the contrast. A lot more ink will also remain on the plain copy paper and not transfer over. Sublimation Paper also gives you crisp clean edges whereas regular copy paper can’t hold the ink as well, which causes your image to blur.

                          Can regular copy paper be used to Sublimate?

                          Yes, in a pinch but it is NOT something I recommend doing.

                          How to Use Sublimation Paper

                          Load the Sublimation Paper into the Sublimation Printer and print your mirrored or unmirrored design. Depending on your substrate will determine if you mirror it or not. Then, place your print (once air-dried) ink side down on your substrate. Tape it firmly into place, and then press with your heat press. *Time and Temperatures vary

                          What paper is used for Sublimation Printing?

                          Both Sublimation Paper and Blowout paper are used to catch any “stray dyes,” so you are protecting your substrate as well as heat press. Use butcher paper (unwaxed). Use copy paper in a pinch, but not recommended.

                          # Preview Product Rating Price
                          1 Hiipoo Sublimation Ink for EcoTank Supertank Inkjet Printer ET-2400 ET-2720 ET-2760 ET-2800 ET-2803... Hiipoo Sublimation Ink for EcoTank Supertank Inkjet Printer ET-2400 ET-2720 ET-2760 ET-2800... $26.99 Buy on Amazon
                          2 Hiipoo Sublimation Ink with Heat Tape Refill for ET2400 XP4105 XP4100 ET2720 ET2760 ET2750 ET4800... Hiipoo Sublimation Ink with Heat Tape Refill for ET2400 XP4105 XP4100 ET2720 ET2760 ET2750 ET4800... $23.99 Buy on Amazon
                          3 Hiipoo Sublimation Ink for EcoTank Supertank Inkjet Printers ET-2803 ET-2800 ET-2850 ET-2720 ET-4800... Hiipoo Sublimation Ink for EcoTank Supertank Inkjet Printers ET-2803 ET-2800 ET-2850 ET-2720... $36.99 Buy on Amazon
                          4 Printers Jack Sublimation Ink Refill for Epson EcoTank Supertank Printers ET-2720 ET-2760 ET-2750... Printers Jack Sublimation Ink Refill for Epson EcoTank Supertank Printers ET-2720 ET-2760 ET-2750... $31.99 Buy on Amazon
                          5 Subliplus+ 560ml Sublimation Ink Refilled for Ecotank ET-2720 ET-2760 ET-2803 ET-2800 ET-4800... Subliplus+ 560ml Sublimation Ink Refilled for Ecotank ET-2720 ET-2760 ET-2803 ET-2800 ET-4800... No ratings yet $29.99 Buy on Amazon
                          6 Printers Jack 400ML Sublimation Ink for Epson C88 C88+ WF7720 ET2720 ET4760 ET2760 ET2750 WF7820... Printers Jack 400ML Sublimation Ink for Epson C88 C88+ WF7720 ET2720 ET4760 ET2760 ET2750 WF7820... $21.99 Buy on Amazon
                          7 Hiipoo Sublimation Ink Refilled Bottles Work with WF7710 ET2760 ET2720 ET2803 ET2800 ET15000 C88... Hiipoo Sublimation Ink Refilled Bottles Work with WF7710 ET2760 ET2720 ET2803 ET2800 ET15000 C88... $18.98 Buy on Amazon
                          8 WOKOK Sublimation Ink Refill Ink Kit for Inkjet Sublimation Printers ET-2720 ET-2800 ET-2803 ET-2760... WOKOK Sublimation Ink Refill Ink Kit for Inkjet Sublimation Printers ET-2720 ET-2800 ET-2803... $12.99 Buy on Amazon
                          9 Hiipoo 580ML Sublimation Ink for EcoTank Supertank Inkjet Printer ET-2400 ET-2720 ET-2760 ET-2800... Hiipoo 580ML Sublimation Ink for EcoTank Supertank Inkjet Printer ET-2400 ET-2720 ET-2760 ET-2800... $31.91 Buy on Amazon
                          10 Tonha Sublimation Ink Refill for Epson EcoTank ET2720 ET2760 ET2650 ET4700 ET2750 WF2750 WF7710... Tonha Sublimation Ink Refill for Epson EcoTank ET2720 ET2760 ET2650 ET4700 ET2750 WF2750 WF7710... $18.99 Buy on Amazon

                          Last update on 2023-01-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

                          What is the difference between photo paper and sublimation paper?

                          One is used to print photos, and Sublimation Paper is a specific paper with a special coating on it, so you can use it to sublimate items.

                          Is sublimation paper the same as the transfer paper?

                          Transferer printing paper is different than sublimation paper. The Transfer paper uses standard ink, and the design is placed onto your garment. You will be able to see the transfer.

                          Sublimation Ink becomes one with the fibers of your garment, much like a tattoo on the skin.

                          Sublimation paper for inkjet printers is any standard Sublimation Paper and using Sublimation Ink in the inkjet printer is the only way to use “Sublimation Paper for Inkjet Printers.”

                          What is sublimation paper is subli?

                          FOREVER Subli-Light is a sublimation paper that is sold by US Cutter. It can transfer colors to white and light color fabrics without weeding.

                          Different Brands of Sublimation Paper

                          Wokok Sublimation Paper

                          A-Sub Sublimation Paper is the perfect sublimation paper and we have an exclusive coupon code to help you save on your Sublimation Paper.

                          Paper blowouts (Not the Party Paper Blow Outs) paper blowouts in sublimation

                          Koala Brand

                          Printer Jack’s

                          HTVFront Paper

                          Sawgrass

                          Hiipoo Sublimation Paper

                          There are hundreds more, those are some of the best!

                          Need sublimation product care cards?

                          How does sublimation paper work?

                          You will print dye onto a piece of special paper, which is sublimation paper. What happens is when you take this paper and heat it.

                          The dye goes from a solid-state to a gas state, okay. When it goes to the gas state, it basically embeds itself into the fibers of your polyester garment. When it cools off, it binds back together as a solid.

                          That’s the scientific way of explaining how sublimation paper works. If you have sublimated before, it makes a whole lot of sense.

                          If you haven’t Sublimated before, here is a description of the Sublimation process.

                          • Start by printing the design onto the white side of the sublimation paper.
                          • After the design has dried, cut around the shape of your design, or you can tear the edges if you prefer.
                          • Next, place the paper design side down on your substrate or object.
                          • After that, tape the paper to the substrate with heat press tape.
                          • Next, cover the taped-down design with blowout paper and the surrounding substrate.
                          • Finally, you will be ready to apply heat using your heat press. It must have pressure and heat, and generally, the temperature is between 350°F– 400°F degrees.

                          Those gases will escape and spread out if you do not take these steps, commonly called ghosting.

                          Ghosting can be lighter areas, a spot that isn’t as dark as the other ink on the item. Or it can be sort of like a shadow, where your image could have moved. When you use blowout paper, you protect your heat press and other items from the gases that are escaping from your sublimation paper.

                          Why do you need to tape down your design?

                          You must tape your design down to keep those gases trapped in as much as possible. So you don’t have that ghosting problem.

                          If you do not know all of the vocabulary associated with Sublimation Printing, get your copy of the Sublimation Glossary today.

                          Do you print on the white side or the pink side of Sublimation Paper?

                          White.

                          What is sublimation paper made of?

                          Paper and a special coating that makes it Sublimation Paper.

                          What is the BEST Sublimation Paper?

                          The best sublimation paper is an opinion answer. However, it has been my experience that the BEST Sublimation Paper is the paper that you use and love. Personally, I love A-Sub Sublimation Paper.

                          What is Sublimation Transfer Paper?

                          Is sublimation paper the same as transfer paper? Sublimation is a process where the ink becomes part of the fabric like a tattoo on the skin. The transfer paper adds a layer on top of the garment.

                          What paper is used for Sublimation Printing?

                          Sublimation Paper. See above for the best sublimation paper.

                          Does Sublimation Paper Expire?

                          Yes, both Sublimation Ink and Sublimation Paper expire. However, if you store it in a cool place with low humidity, the shelf life of paper is about a year.

                          How many uses can you get out of a sublimation transfer?

                          Sublimation paper is only used one time. It can’t be used again after pressing the print.

                          What paper type do I choose for sublimation paper?

                          Matte paper, best quality, and the design should be mirrored.

                          How to Use Sublimation Paper

                          Load the Sublimation Paper into the Sublimation Printer and print your mirrored or unmirrored design. Depending on your substrate will determine if you mirror it or not. Then, place your print (once air-dried) ink side down on your substrate. Tape it firmly into place, and then press with your heat press. *Time and Temperatures vary

                          Do you have to use sublimation paper to sublimate?

                          YES!

                          What is sublimation paper? Can I use regular printer paper?

                          In a pinch, yes, but it is NOT recommended.

                          What is the difference between A-Sub 120 and A-Sub 125? Which is best?

                          The thickness of the material 105 g is the thinnest, 120 is the and 125 g is the thickest. The easiest explanation is less weight for lighter sublimations. The heavier the paper, the higher the color saturation. Or the more ink the paper holds, resulting in better prints.

                          Can I print on Cardstock?

                          Normal Cardstock = NO
                          IF you purchase Cardstock of a PVC quality and the manufacturer lists sublimation as a possibility then, yes.

                          Can you use sublimation paper on any printer? 

                          Some of them yes, some of them no. Check out this post on printers for a better answer.

                          What paper can be used for sublimation? 

                          Sublimation Paper as seen above or Blowout papers.

                          What is the purpose of the sublimation paper?

                          Sublimation Paper is a special printing paper that absorbs and retains sublimation ink. But then it is transferred over to a project using heat. The purpose of blow-out paper is to protect your project from “extra” ink being released onto your heat press, your project, and more.

                          What is the difference between A-Sub 120 and A-Sub 125? Which is best?

                          Best Sublimation Paper? It's a matter of opinion.

                          The thickness of the material 105 g is the thinnest, 120 is the middle, and 125 g is the thickest. The easiest explanation is less weight for lighter sublimations. The heavier the paper, the higher the color saturation. Or the more ink the paper holds, resulting in better prints.

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