What is Sublimation?
Sublimation is relatively simple. When sublimation inks are heated to 400°F, they turn into a gas and form a permanent bond to 100% white or light color polyester fabric or items that have a polymer coating. The result is a premium full-color, photographic-quality image that will not crack, peel or wash away from the substrate.
Can I use Sublimation only on fabrics?
NO. Sublimation can be used on any hard substrate that is coated for sublimation transfers.
Is Sublimation printed on just plain paper?
Here at The Crafty Shed, we use high quality Sublimation transfer paper. We use A-Sub or TexPrint paper.
Can Sublimation print White?
No. Sublimation does not print in white.
Can I use the same Sublimation transfer more than once?
No. The transfer can only be used one time.
Can I use a Sublimation transfer on Cotton?
Sublimation MUST be used on at least 50% polyester. The higher the polyester percentage, the brighter and crisper the results will be. Sublimation only dyes polyester fibers so anything less than 100% polyester will yield a faded vintage look.
Can I use a home iron with Sublimation transfers?
No. You must use a heat press. Home irons do not reach a high enough temperature (400 degrees).
Do you have instructions on how to apply the transfers?
Yes we sure do. We send out detailed instruction sheets with each order.
How long will it take to ship my order once placed?
We strive to get all ready to ship (RTS) orders out within 3 to 5 BUSINESS days. For larger orders, it could be longer.
Can I resell the transfers?
No. None of the transfers can be resold as is. They must be on a finished product.
Digital downloads
Digital downloads are NON-REFUNDABLE and NON-EXCHANGEABLE! Nothing is physically mailed to you. It is available for download immediately after purchase. Digital files CANNOT be resold or shared as a digital file or transfer.
Pressing Instructions
A heat press is recommended to apply all transfers and vinyl. Your press should heat evenly and at accurate temperature for best results. Use of an infrared temperature gun will ensure your press is at the correct temp. We do not recommend use of home irons or Cricut easy press.
*Sublimation Transfers
-400 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 to 60 seconds.
-Peel – Hot. Use of butcher or parchment paper is recommended so the ink doesn’t transfer to your press and/or other items. Place on top of the transfer.
-Pressure – depends on the item – general pressing instructions are listed below
- garments – sublimation should be applied to light colored polyester fabrics using light to medium light pressure. 100% poly will yield the best and most vibrant colors. 50% and higher can be used but will give a more vintage look. A pressing pillow can be used to ensure even pressure.
- hard substrates – these items are poly coated so you can sub on them. Medium to medium hard pressure is normal
*Screenprint Transfers
-No teflon sheets, covers, or pressing pillows should be used.
-325 degrees Fahrenheit for 7 seconds
-Pressure – HIGH (8-9 manual, 60PSI automatic)
-Peel – Hot. Peel slowly to ensure the transfer is fully adhered. If it is not, stop peeling and lay the paper back down and adjust the item position. Adjust your pressure and press for another 7 seconds.
*Rhinestone Transfers
-No teflon sheets, covers, or pressing pillows should be used.
-325 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 seconds
-Pressure – MEDIUM
-Peel – Cold. After pressing, remove from heat press and allow to cool completely. Slowly remove the carrier sheet. Turn item inside out and press again for 5 seconds.
*Vinyl Transfers
-No teflon sheets, covers, or pressing pillows should be used.
-325 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 seconds
-Pressure – MEDIUM
-Peel – Hot. Peel slowly to ensure the transfer is fully adhered. If it is not, stop peeling and lay the paper back down and adjust the item position. Adjust your pressure and press for another 7 seconds.
*Patches
-No teflon sheet or cover is needed but can be used
-325 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-10 seconds
-Pressure – MEDIUM to HIGH
-If pressed correctly, patch has a permanent bond to material. Items should be hand washed and air dried.
*Heat Transfer Vinyl
-Preheat garment or item for 3 seconds
-305 °F for 10-15 seconds
-Pressure – MEDIUM
-Peel hot or cold