How to Sublimate T-Shirts: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Q: What equipment is required for sublimation?

A full sublimation setup typically includes a heat press (or mug press for drinkware), a sublimation printer with compatible sublimation ink, a computer or tablet for designing, sublimation paper, heat-resistant transfer tape, and protective sheets or pillows to ensure even pressure and prevent unwanted ink transfer.

Q: Why can’t I sublimate on dark garments?

Sublimation cannot be used on dark-coloured garments because there is no white sublimation ink. The process relies on transparent inks that bond with light-coloured polyester surfaces, so darker fabrics prevent the design from appearing correctly.

Q: Why does the image on my screen differ from the final printed result?

Images printed with sublimation ink may look different from what appears on a computer screen because sublimation inks change colour during the heat pressing process. When heated, the inks often become brighter and more vibrant. Testing prints on a product before starting a full production run is recommended to confirm the final result.

Q: Can I use an iron instead of a heat press?

No, sublimation requires consistent heat and even pressure across the entire surface area at the same time. This level of control cannot be achieved with a household iron, so a heat press is required for reliable sublimation results.

If you're looking to produce personalised tees with more complicated designs, sublimation could be the perfect method for you. Take a look at our guide to sublimating below...

What you’ll need:

Sublimation printer and inks
Sublimation paper
Polyester sublimation t-shirt blanks
Heat press (flat press or mug press)
Heat transfer tape
Protection sheets or pillows

1. Using a sublimation printer and paper, make sure to mirror (flip horizontally) your artwork before printing so it appears correctly on the final t-shirt.

2. Position the print face down onto the polyester t-shirt and secure in place with heat tape.

3. Carefully thread the garment onto the heat press, cover with a silicone sheet and press at 190°C for 60-70 seconds with medium pressure.

4. Once pressed, remove the silicone sheet and peel whilst hot.

5. Your tee is complete.

Tip: Sublimation only works on light-coloured polyester fabrics or polymer-coated items. It won’t work on cotton or dark garments.

Sublimation is speedy and efficient, making it perfect when you need smaller batch orders turned around quickly. It really shines with more complicated designs, giving you the creative freedom to bring intricate artwork to life with excellent results.

You can choose a design that covers nearly the entire product if you want maximum impact, and the best part? Your designs won't crack, peel, or fade over time, so they'll keep looking sharp for years to come.

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1. What equipment is required for sublimation?

For a full sublimation setup, we recommend the following equipment:

Heat press (for mugs , a specific mug press is required)
Sublimation printer & ink
Computer or tablet for designing
Heat transfer tape
Protection sheets/pillows
Sublimation paper

2. Why can’t I sublimate on dark garments?

It isn't possible to sublimate on dark coloured garments because there is no white sublimation ink.

We do offer black mugs with white squares for sublimation as a close alternative.

3. Why does the image on my screen differ from the final printed result?

A print from a sublimation printer can look different to the image on your computer screen. This is because sublimation inks often change colour during the heat pressing process.

As the ink reacts when it is heated, it sometimes becomes brighter and more vibrant than the image printed on the sublimation paper. We highly recommend that, during your testing stage, you heat press the image onto a product to see the final result before beginning a batch order.

4. Can I use an iron instead of a heat press?

No. You need a continuous, even heat and pressure to be applied simultaneously to the entire surface area. This can only be effectively achieved using a heat press.

Get Started Sublimating T-shirts

Now that you know how to sublimate a t-shirt, you’re ready to start creating professional-quality, personalised garments. Explore the full range of sublimation printers, blanks, and accessories to bring your unique designs to life.