Product tutorial · Sublimation
Sublimating Polyester Garments and Fabric Items
Create bright, washable designs on suitable polyester shirts, clothing and fabric products.
Product imageAdd a photograph of the blank garment when available.
What you need
- A white or light-coloured polyester garment or coated fabric item
- A sublimation print made with sublimation ink
- Heat press, protective paper and lint roller
- Heat-resistant tape when needed
Step-by-step
1
Prepare the design
Size and mirror the artwork before printing. Confirm that the print is dry and free from marks.
2
Prepare the garment
Lay it flat, remove lint carefully and pre-press briefly to remove moisture and wrinkles.
3
Protect the layers
Place protective paper inside the garment to prevent ink transferring through. Add clean paper above the transfer.
4
Position the print
Place the printed design face-down on the printable area and secure it if necessary.
5
Press the product
Use the supplier’s recommended starting settings. Keep the fabric smooth and apply even pressure.
6
Remove and cool
Open the press carefully, remove the transfer as recommended and allow the garment to cool on a clean surface.
Common problems
| Problem | Likely cause | Try this |
|---|---|---|
| Dull colour | Low polyester content or insufficient heat | Check the garment specification and retest |
| Faded patches | Moisture, lint or uneven pressure | Pre-press, clean and flatten the item |
| Second image or shadow | The paper moved | Secure the transfer and lift it cleanly |